“Build. Live. Be loved.” That’s the motto that guides the work of the Lighthouse Beloved Community – our August VHA Member Spotlight. As part of the FARRR Foundation’s “Family of Services” – also known as the Lighthouse Collective – the Lighthouse Beloved Community’s community land trust (CLT) model helps build long-term, local capacity through education, fostering partnerships, and creating opportunities for sustainable homeownership.
We recently caught up with Victor Villalta – an AmeriCorps VISTA member who is serving at the Lighthouse Beloved Community CLT – to learn more about the organization’s work, vision, and some exciting new program developments.
Q: How would you describe the Lighthouse Beloved Community’s mission, in a nutshell?
Our organization is committed to building long-term community capacity by providing education, fostering partnerships, and creating opportunities for sustainable homeownership. We believe that affordable housing is more than providing homes – it is about helping families build stability, financial security, and stronger communities.
Q: Are there any upcoming events or projects you’d like to share with VHA’s community?
We are continuing to expand our bilingual Homebuyer Education Program by offering classes in both English and Spanish to help first-time homebuyers navigate the homeownership process with confidence. We are also strengthening partnerships with local lenders, housing professionals, and community organizations to increase access to affordable housing resources and create sustainable pathways to homeownership.
Q: How has Virginia Housing Alliance membership been valuable to your organization’s affordable housing and community development work?
As the VHA VISTA serving at Lighthouse Beloved Community Land Trust, my role has helped increase the organization’s capacity by developing sustainable programs and resources. During my service, I created bilingual Homebuyer Education classes, strengthened partnerships with community organizations, improved outreach efforts, and developed systems that will continue to benefit the organization long after my VISTA term ends. These efforts have allowed Lighthouse to serve more families while building a stronger foundation for future growth.
Q: You’re also a current participant in VHA’s Housing Leadership Institute (HLI). How has that experience translated to your work with the Lighthouse Beloved Community?
[VHA] has increased my understanding of affordable housing policies, funding opportunities, and legislative initiatives that impact housing and homelessness services across Virginia. The Housing Leadership Institute has been especially valuable because it has strengthened my leadership skills, expanded my understanding of affordable housing systems, and connected me with professionals across Virginia who are working to address housing challenges. The collaborative discussions and practical tools have helped me apply new ideas directly to my work at Lighthouse.
Q: What do you believe to be the most rewarding aspect of the Lighthouse Beloved Community’s work?
The most rewarding part of this work is empowering individuals and families with the knowledge and resources they need to achieve homeownership. Seeing participants gain confidence, ask informed questions, and take meaningful steps toward purchasing their first home is incredibly fulfilling, especially when language or financial barriers are reduced through accessible education.
Responses were lightly edited for length and clarity.
Connect with the Lighthouse Beloved Community!
Website: www.lighthousebelovedcommunity.org
Instagram: @thelighthouse_cc
Facebook: Lighthouse Beloved Community CLT