J.K. Rowling founded Lumos to help children living in institutions and promote family-based care. The organization was originally established in 2005 under a different name before becoming Lumos.
The charity’s work focuses on replacing harmful institutional systems with support for families, foster care, adoption, and community services. Its name refers to “Lumos,” the wand-lighting spell in the Harry Potter books, but its programs address real-world child welfare rather than fiction.
Rowling became involved after reading about children kept in institutions, including reports describing severe neglect and dangerous conditions. Lumos works with governments and local partners to change systems so children can grow up in families or family-like settings whenever possible.
The organization has operated internationally, including projects in Europe, Africa, and Latin America. Its work reflects Rowling’s broader charitable activity, which has also included support for multiple sclerosis research and organizations helping families in hardship.