Light for LA: Bridging the Lighting Access Gap with Nick Albert of Chromatic

At LEDucation 2025, Randy Reid spoke with Nick Albert of Chromatic to discuss Light for LA, a nonprofit initiative dedicated to providing equitable access to quality lighting in underserved communities.

The Mission of Light for LA

Light for LA is part of a larger nonprofit organization, Light Equity, aimed at addressing the gap in access to high-quality lighting design, particularly in areas affected by disasters like the recent fires in Los Angeles. The goal is to ensure that communities, especially those that are underfunded or in crisis, have access to sustainable, healthy, and beautiful lighting as they rebuild.

Addressing the Access Gap in Lighting Design

Nick Albert explained that while 10% of the construction and architecture industry has access to high-end lighting design, the remaining 90%—including communities affected by emergencies—lack this knowledge. By using the tools the design community already possesses, Light for LA aims to empower these communities with the resources needed to integrate lighting into their rebuilding efforts, ensuring both functionality and aesthetic value.

Light Equity: A Community-Focused Nonprofit

Light Equity, the umbrella organization for Light for LA, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that focuses on community-facing initiatives. Albert emphasized the need for engagement from the community, highlighting the importance of volunteers, donations, and sponsorships to support the organization’s efforts.

Expanding the Reach: Beyond LA’s Fires

While Light for LA’s current focus is on rebuilding homes in LA after the fires, Albert stressed that the tools and resources provided could later be used by smaller towns and communities across the country to improve their lighting design and quality of life. He called for more cohesive support within the lighting industry to address these challenges, similar to the outpouring of support for Ukraine, where the lighting industry raised $50,000 for UNICEF.

Collaboration with the Light Justice Now Award

Nick Albert also expressed excitement about collaborating with the upcoming Light Justice Now award, which recognizes the impact of lighting injustice. The partnership, he believes, will help inform and shape the efforts of Light for LA.

How to Get Involved

For those interested in supporting, Albert encourages people to visit lightforla.org to sign up, volunteer, or donate to this important cause. The initiative is still in development, and every bit of support will help as they work toward a more equitable future for lighting design in underserved communities.