Volunteer & Get Involved

Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy is seeking volunteers for our lighthouses in Muskegon Michigan, which maintains and operates the Muskegon South Pierhead Light and South Breakwater Light. In Muskegon we need tour guides (docents), gift shop and fundraising volunteers. However other opportunities such as genealogy, historic research, and fundraising exist as remote volunteer opportunities from anywhere.

Why Volunteers Matter

Every lighthouse tells a story — and every volunteer helps keep that story alive. Your involvement supports:

Lighthouse restoration and maintenance
Artifact preservation and cataloging
Educational programs and community outreach
Special events, fundraisers, and exhibits
Documentation, photography, and research

You don’t need special experience — just passion, dedication, and a willingness to help.

Who Can Volunteer?

Everyone.
Families, students, retirees, local historians, lighthouse or maritime enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to contribute to preserving Michigan’s lighthouse and Life-Saving Service history. We welcome both individual volunteers and group service projects, including corporate groups, schools, and community organizations.

HELP RESTORE MICHIGAN’S LIGHTHOUSES

How to Sign Up

On site volunteers at the Muskegon Lighthouses offers volunteer training each spring, with additional onboarding available throughout the summer season. Volunteers assist with lighthouse tours, visitor engagement, and seasonal operations at both historic sites.

We are working on opportunities for the Alpena Breakwater Lighthouse as well and if you are interested in this lighthouses please contact us for more information..

To learn more or sign up for the Muskegon lighthouses, please contact muskegonlightsoperations@gmail.com, call 844-MLIGHTS, or follow published events on the Muskegon South Pierhead Light Facebook page.

To learn more about the Alpena Breakwater Lighthouse, please contact michiganlights@gmail.com or call 844-MLIGHTS.

Over the years the weather and constant use have created an urgent need for maintenance and restoration of these historic resources. Volunteers and donors play a vital role in helping preserve these iconic beacons and Life-Saving Stations for future generations.

Ways You Can Get Involved

Education & Outreach

Help develop a program and share our maritime history for school programs, community events, and museum partnerships to share lighthouse and Life-Saving Service history for the public.

Photography & Documentation

Capture detailed photographs of historic structures, artifacts, restoration activities, and preservation work to support our archives, enhance educational materials, document progress, and share Michigan’s lighthouse heritage with the public.

Lighthouse Maintenance & Cleanup

Help maintain the lighthouse, support small repairs, and prepare historic sites for visitors.

Artifact Conservation Support

Help document, catalog, and present historic tools and equipment from lighthouse and Life-Saving Service history for publishing on our web site for others to learn about.

Keep Michigan’s Lights Shining for Generations

Make an Impact That Lasts

Your time, your skills, and your dedication help protect Michigan’s lighthouses and Life-Saving Stations and share these stories with future generations. Together, we can keep these historic beacons shining.

JOIN THE MISSION TODAY