Alvin Helms named interim CEO at Lighthouse Mission Ministries
Alvin Helms, who has more than 35 years of experience in ministry and leadership roles in nonprofit and community organization, has been named interim Chief Executive Officer at Bellingham-based Lighthouse Mission Ministries.
Helms will serve in the transition role as outgoing CEO Hans Erchinger-Davis prepares for his last day June 30, according to Sam Mullen, chair of the Lighthouse Mission’s Board of Trustees. Erchinger-Davis has served as CEO the last 10 years.
Helms will continue to serve as pastor of Northside Community Church in Bellingham during the board’s search for a new CEO, Mullen said, as the Lighthouse Mission’s executive leadership manages day-to-day operations.
“Alvin offers a strong pastoral and supportive presence,” Mullen said. “He is very professionally qualified for this role and is quite capable of being a sound resource.”
Before coming to Bellingham, Helms served as board president for Tacoma Rescue Mission and later as its Chief Operating Officer before returning to pastoral ministry. He has a doctor of ministry degree in strategic leadership from Corban University and a master’s degree in social ethics from Yale University.
“It is a profound privilege to walk alongside the leaders of Lighthouse Mission Ministry, shaping the future of a cornerstone that sustains our community,” Helms said.
A new $29 million, five-story Lighthouse Mission campus opened in 2025, serving homeless neighbors at 1312 F St., Bellingham. It is Whatcom County’s only walk-in Emergency Overnight Shelter and includes several programs: Enhanced Shelter Dorms for men and women, a Seniors and Medical Respite program, Family Shelter and a forthcoming Behavioral Health program.
Lighthouse Mission is currently staffed to accommodate 250 people with facilities that can eventually flex to 500 people. The Mission serves three meals daily and provide case managers and resource connections in a community-oriented atmosphere. Lighthouse Mission’s Liminal
Coffee opened to the public Feb. 14 in the same building, offering vocational development for current and former Mission residents.
Lighthouse Mission Ministries has been helping people who are homeless since 1923. It provides a continuum of services aimed at ending homelessness through meals, enhanced shelters, addiction recovery, spiritual support, and aftercare. To make a donation or volunteer, call (360) 733-5120, or visit www.thelighthousemission.org.
MEDIA NOTE: Sam Mullen may be reached at (206) 799-9869. A photo of Alvin Helms has been sent with this e-mail.
