Mission & Vision
At LUME Institute, we provide learning, reflection, and relationship-centered practices rooted in love, belonging and appropriate power to strengthen adults, children and communities. We cultivate emotional resilience, so that all connect, grow and flourish across a lifetime.
Core Values
We show up with presence, purpose and partnership - fostering a culture where everyone matters and growth is shared.
Grow Infinitely – Practice curiosity and learning- embracing change, innovation and our shared humanity.
Lead with Heart – Listen with empathy and act with compassion to foster genuine connection.
Play Freely – Play to spark joy, creativity, resilience and healing.
Practice Power With – Collaborate, honor shared wisdom and elevate every voice.
Choose Vulnerability – Lead with authenticity and courage, build trust and hold space for learning and unlearning.
Our Team
Our team is composed of not only of our cohort leaders, but also of our amazing data team fueling our research and discoveries. Our team is all about showing up with purpose on purpose, with an open heart for each other and our community.
Our Story
Founded in 2008 by Steve Zwolak, LUME Institute evolved from the values, philosophy and methodologies embodied by our demonstration school University City Children's Center in St. Louis, Missouri. The non-profit, early childhood education center has served as a transformative model of quality, early child care and education since 1970.
LUME & Youth In Need
Youth In Need and LUME have been partners for more than 15 years. In 2010, UCCC, LUME’s demonstration school, became one of Youth In Need’s Early Head Start partners. LUME and Youth In Need have a long relationship, including cohorts and coaching sessions for Youth In Need staff over the years. Today, the companies have officially merged, with both LUME and UCCC becoming a part of Youth In Need’s Early Learning Programs.
Learn more about Youth In Need’s Early Learning Program HERE.
