Updates & News

“Supporting LakewoodAlive directly supports the quality of life in Lakewood” Pam Smith’s involvement with LakewoodAlive stems all the way back to the beginning of the organization. Her professional background in marketing at Dupont, her time serving on City Council and her commitment to civic engagement helped her to see the importance of economic development in Lakewood in the early 2000s. 

A new addition to Detroit Avenue is helping customers fill their homes with fragrance without the worry of harmful ingredients. Located at 15610 Detroit Ave, Thrive & Shine Candles recently opened its storefront in Lakewood, offering handcrafted candles, wax melts, and linen sprays made with transparency, sustainability, and wellness in mind. Owner Alison Griffiths first began making candles five years

A new café is brewing something special inside Lakewood’s historic Screw Factory. Flour & Bean, located at 13000 Athens Avenue on the first floor at the front of the building’s east side, is more than just a place to grab coffee, it’s a thoughtfully designed space rooted in creativity, community, and fresh, made-from-scratch food. Owned by chef Edward Meyers and

LakewoodAlive and its Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Jo Higgins as the organization’s new Executive Director. Higgins, who previously served as Operations Manager, steps into the role following a period of organizational transition and growth. Higgins joined LakewoodAlive in March 2023 as the Small Business & Events Coordinator, where she managed logistics for the organization’s large-scale

A new chapter has begun at 15729 Madison Ave. with the arrival of The Wandering Lantern, a charming children’s bookshop. Co-owned by Emily Mitchell, a third and fourth grade reading and writing teacher, and Michael Plant, a serial entrepreneur, the shop is a heartfelt addition to the neighborhood. For Emily, a mother, teacher, and lifelong reader, The Wandering Lantern is a

LakewoodAlive is seeking a dynamic Executive Director to lead the organization into its next chapter of impact. The Executive Director serves as both a strategic leader and a hands-on collaborator, working closely with staff, the Board of Directors, community partners, and residents. From guiding long-term vision and fundraising efforts to overseeing daily operations and impactful programs like Housing Outreach and

As 2025 comes to a close, LakewoodAlive is reflecting with gratitude on the generosity and support of the donors, partners, sponsors, and neighbors who make its work possible. Their continued investment helps advance LakewoodAlive’s mission: to foster and sustain vibrant, welcoming neighborhoods throughout the city. That mission comes to life through a range of initiatives, including Housing Outreach programs that

For many small businesses, a storefront sign is more than just a name on a building—it’s a first impression, a wayfinding tool, and a vital part of attracting customers. In Lakewood, local businesses looking to install or update their signage have access to a City of Lakewood storefront signage rebate grant, and LakewoodAlive plays a key role in helping them

A new boutique located at 15210 Madison Avenue is offering a highly specialized retail experience grounded in craftsmanship and personalization. Leona’s Custom Hats & Red Squirrel Gifts, owned and operated by Lakewood residents Brad and Shay Fishbaugh, opened its storefront this past summer and has quickly become a destination for custom-made hats, permanent jewelry, and handcrafted goods. The business marks

Dear Friends and Supporters of LakewoodAlive, At this time of Thanksgiving, I would like to extend my gratitude to Ian Andrews for 14 years of dedicated service to our local non-profit community development organization. Ian has communicated his intent to depart LakewoodAlive, effective January 7, 2026 to pursue an exciting role with the City of Lakewood. Our board of directors

Make a big impact this Small Business Weekend by shopping at local merchants on November 28-30 and throughout the holiday season! Small Business Saturday–which always follows Black Friday–is Saturday, November 29 this year and we are highlighting local, brick-and-mortar establishments and what they have to offer on Small Business Saturday and for the whole Small Business Weekend. To learn more

Following last year’s fireworks show, Light Up Lakewood event organizer LakewoodAlive, in collaboration with the City of Lakewood’s Fire Department, have determined that due to safety concerns the 13-year cherished fireworks show will come to a close. This year’s event is Saturday, December 6 from 4-8 PM on Detroit Avenue in Downtown Lakewood. “It was incredible to introduce winter fireworks

What started as a small side hobby in a Lakewood home 12 years ago has grown into one of the area’s most beloved custom apparel shops. Black Label Apparel, founded by Lakewood resident Patrick Kellett, began with a simple idea: while Cleveland gear was everywhere, there wasn’t much out there that spoke directly to Lakewood pride. Patrick decided to change

LakewoodAlive, a non-profit community development organization, is excited to announce the addition of four exceptional Lakewood residents to its Board of Directors: Jodi Barnes, Hannah Belsito, Christina McCallum, and Lauren Smigelski. These dynamic women bring decades of professional experience and a shared passion for our community to their new roles. A vote for new board members and a slate of