Support Us | FILPS

The Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society (FILPS) is a non-profit organization formed in 1982 in response to the possible demolition of the Fire Island Lighthouse. The Society raised over $1.3 million to save and restore the Lighthouse. The founding President was Thomas F. Roberts, III.

On May 25, 1986, the Lighthouse was returned to duty as an active aid to navigation with a grand relighting ceremony. On January 6, 2006 the light was privatized when the US Coast Guard signed over operations to the Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society. Volunteers now maintain and repair the light to ensure it continues to be an active aid to navigation.

In December 1996, FILPS took over the maintenance and operation of the Lighthouse and Keeper's Quarters/Visitor Center, increasing visitor services and programs for schools and other interested groups. In January 2006 FILPS took over the ownership and maintenance of the beacon from the United States Coast Guard.

Since its inception FILPS's directive has been to work with the National Park Service to help preserve the nautical heritage of Fire Island and Long Island, and to ensure that this monument remains an integral part of that heritage.

Today, the Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society continues its important work. The Board of Directors, staff and volunteers maintain the Lighthouse and navigation beacon, archive its history, improve displays, expand programs and make your visit as enjoyable as possible. You can be part of the success of the Society, by becoming a member, volunteering, or donating to help protect one of Long Island's and our country's maritime treasures.

Become A Member

Donate

Volunteer

Fire Island Lighthouse
Preservation Society

Seen Above: Signing over the rights for the Preservation Society to take over daily operations.

FILPS Membership

Becoming a member of the Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society helps to protect one of Long Island's and our country's maritime treasures.

Membership helps to maintain the Lighthouse, provide continuing support for our educational programs for Long Island students, as well as enhance exhibits for the tens of thousands of guests who visit each year.

Please consider becoming a member and find a friend who would also like to join. Membership perks include $2 Tower Tours!

Members receive publications of the Fire Island Light newsletter, notification of programs/events, discounts on selected programs/events, a 10% discount on items in the Gift Shop(except books), and a reduced tower tour fee with ID card. The Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society is a non-profit 501(C)(3 )tax exempt organization. Your contribution is tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Help us keep the Light shining!

Join Online

Mail In Application

Become A Member

Donate

Your financial support is necessary for the maintenance and preservation of the Lighthouse Tower, Keepers Quarters, and surrounding buildings so that we can keep the doors of the Lighthouse open to the public.

Memorial Donation

Make a donation in honor or memorial of any amount. A notification will be sent to the family of the person this donation was made for.

Donate

Memorial Donation

Volunteer

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead (1902-1978); Cultural Anthropologist

The Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society welcomes volunteers to help us meet our educational and institutional objectives. We offer a rewarding experience to any qualified individual who wants to volunteer and be part of our team. Specific skills or experience are not a prerequisite. All we require is a desire to help out and learn. Volunteers usually contribute about 4 hours per week.

Based on your experience and interests, there are multiple disciplines and functions where you can help. These include: