Muskegon South Breakwater Lighthouse

About


For nearly a century, the Muskegon South Breakwater Lighthouse has stood at the edge of Lake Michigan, guiding sailors safely into our harbor through every season and storm. Alongside the South Pierhead Light, it has long served as a beacon of safety, strength, and identity for our community, a proud symbol of Muskegon’s connection to the Great Lakes. Today, this cherished landmark is in jeopardy. After decades of exposure to wind, waves, and harsh winters, the Breakwater Light is showing significant signs of rust and structural decay. Without swift action, we risk losing not only a working aid to navigation but also a vital part of Muskegon’s story.

CAMPAIGN GOALS:

Estimated Restoration Costs: $1,600,000
Progress to date: Approximately $1,300,000

Any excess funds will go into an endowment to maintain the lighthouse and/or to add additional features like lighting, walkway concrete/ADA Accssibility, railings, and more.

We need to raise the full amount, or we risk losing our lighthouse permanently. Please give today!

gIVE TODAY


We’ve created giving levels that honor more than generosity; they preserve history, protect our shoreline, and leave a legacy for generations to come. Each level is an invitation to be part of Muskegon’s maritime story, with opportunities to connect through exclusive experiences at the lighthouse and recognition that reflects your role in keeping the light shining. Your support isn’t just celebrated, it becomes a lasting part of the community’s heritage.

GIVE ONLINE HERE with The Community Foundation for Muskegon County – Visit our Fund Page here to give online, or contact the Community Foundation to transfer stocks, IRA funds, or donor-advised funds.
By Mail – Send a check payable to The Community Foundation for Muskegon County and include “Muskegon Lighthouse Fund” in the memo and mail to 425 W. Western Ave, Suite 200, Muskegon, MI 49440
In Person – Contributions can be dropped off any time at The Community Foundation for Muskegon County or at either of the following locations.

(October – May) Lakeshore Federal Credit Union: 2182 Lakeshore Dr, Muskegon, MI 49441.

(June – September) – Contributions can be dropped off at the Muskegon Lighthouse Gift Shop: 1431 Beach St, Muskegon, MI 49441.
Corporate Giving – Sponsorships and matching gifts are welcome. Please see our donor tiers below or contact us to discuss custom recognition opportunities.
Volunteer Support – Beyond donations, volunteers are needed for tours, events, and campaign outreach.

Donor Levels

Please join us as one of our major donors by considering one of the levels below. We are open to discussing custom recognitions and befefits to fit your needs. Contact our Committee Chairs today to schedule a conversation.

$100,000

KEEPER Jakubovsky Club

The Hero of the 1919 wreck of the steamer City of Muskegon.

Benefits
Prominent recognition on all campaign materials and at lighthouse events
Recognition on campaign website and social media
Top recognition on donor plaza monument to be constructed near the pier
Keynote or ribbon-cutting role at dedication ceremony and other events
Major “Keeper’s Gift” (custom jewelry, framed limited-edition artwork, or restored lighthouse keepsake)
Permanent bronze/cast-iron commemorative plaque inside the new lighthouse
Private lighthouse tour or reception for family and guests

$50,000

Beacon Club
Benefits
Prominent recognition on all campaign materials and at lighthouse events
Recognition on campaign website and social media
Prominent recognition on donor plaza monument to be constructed near the pier
Recognition at ribbon-cutting role at dedication ceremony and other events
Private lighthouse tour or reception for family and guests
“Keeper’s Gift” (custom jewelry, framed limited-edition artwork, or restored lighthouse keepsake)

$30,000

Lantern Room Society
Benefits
Recognition on campaign materials and at lighthouse events
Recognition on campaign website and social media
Name featured on donor plaza monument to be constructed near the pier
Private lighthouse tour and history presentation for up to 6 guests
Limited-edition framed artwork or commemorative lighthouse print

$15,000

Watch Room Circle
Benefits
Recognition on campaign materials and at lighthouse events
Recognition on campaign website and social media
Name featured on donor plaza monument to be constructed near the pier
Limited-edition framed artwork or commemorative lighthouse print

$10,000

Fog Signal Friends
Benefits
Recognition on campaign materials and at lighthouse events
Recognition on campaign website and social media
Name featured on donor plaza monument to be constructed near the pier

Project updates

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Get a project overview and updates on our fundraising and restoration progress! Please consider donating to help get us over the finish line!

Capital Campaign CoMMITTEE


It takes a community of caring, generous volunteers to save our lighthouse! Please join our Campaign Steering Committee in helping to keep our lighthouse standing strong for generations to come.

Co-Chairs:
Don and Nancy Crandall
Terry and Denise Sabo

Steering Committee:
Marc Hoeksema
Roger Morgenstern
Dave Alexander
Don Kalisz
Ron Matthews
Bob Lukens

don and nancy headshot02

Don and Nancy Crandall 
Campaign Co-Chairs

Terry And Dianne Headshot Scaled

Terry and Denise Sabo
Campaign Co-Chairs

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