Illume's Bridge to Stability

Illume has set the goal of raising $100,000 by April 30, 2026.

These funds will go toward keeping operations up and running as we launch several of the income creating aspects of Illume's plan. They will also be used for necessary exterior work on our 102 year old building. (The kinds of things insurance is saying must be done.) 
EMAIL KENT. Let's Talk about it!

WHY DONATE NOW?

Illume’s ministry is at a turning point. We've worked hard to create a very special space for a very unique ministry that can serve Seattle strategically for years to come, and it is coming together. It's so close. 

We’ve secured a coffee partner who will bring life and daily activity to our space, but we need to finish the bar build-out so they can open. We've prepared a great shared office/coworking space, but we need to advertise to potential clients to fill it with productivity and creative thriving. We've had some awesome rental events that have brought thousands of people through our doors in just the last six months, but we need to book more. We've secured one amazing after-school program for our basement space and need to find two more. We've got 4 clubs/groups meeting regularly, but need to attract several more.

All this has taken time, and while all of these community-building uses of Illume are on the precipice of doing what they can for this ministry, we are running out of operational runway. This campaign bridges the gap and unlocks sustainable revenue through coffee operations, coworking, and increased event rentals, ensuring Illume can continuously serve Seattle with hope, hospitality, and connection.
Almost all ministries in Seattle fundraise. Seattle is (tied with Portland to be) the least religious city in the United States. The difference with Illume is that our model, once up-and-running, becomes financially viable without constant fundraising requests. In fact, this is the only time in our history we've run a major fundraising campaign. In our 5-year existence, we've built 30+ Spotlight series, providing innovative ways for groups to engage with God and one another. We've helped dozens of local nonprofits raise their profile, accomplish their goals, and empower people for acts of service.

Your gift today helps us:
  • Complete the coffee bar construction so our tenant can open.
  • Make Illume a vibrant venue for ministry events and community gatherings.
  • Bridge the next few months while we stabilize finances and grow long-term sustainability.

Approaches to Giving
  • One time smaller gifts of $25-$100 → Go toward finishing touches that make the space welcoming for ministry and community.
  • Recurring gifts → Contribute to operational sustainability and advertising while the building begins producing revenue.
  • One time, midsize gifts of $500-$1,000 → Cover a major component like plumbing or electrical work.
  • One time, larger gifts of $1,000+ → Moves us significantly closer to completing the bar and launching the coffee partner.

Every gift matters. Choose the level that fits your capacity. Thank you so much for even considering a contribution.

What it's for:

investing in ministry that is working toward the future of the church

Illume is obviously much more than a venue or coffeehouse or coworking space. It’s a ministry that brings light into lives. Through creative gatherings, relational spaces, and service opportunities, Illume helps people experience grace and community in a fresh way. Completing the coffee bar ensures Illume remains a vibrant hub for ministry and mission in Seattle.

When you give to Illume, you’re investing in:
  • An approach to ministry designed to learn how to serve people sustainably in a changing world.
  • A welcoming space for relational ministry events and spiritual conversations.
  • A community hub where faith and creativity meet.
  • A sustainable nonprofit model that supports gospel-centered work for years to come.

For more (a lot more) insight into Kent's perspective on planning for the future of the church take a look through this interactive presentation: