The Order of The Lamp, Inc. is a nonprofit organization founded in January 1950 by Mrs. Ellarae Saunders, a visionary with an altruistic spirit, and a small group of like-minded charter members. Motivated by a deep concern for the future of young African Americans in the community, they established the organization with a clear mission: to aid and encourage the pursuit of higher education — whether academic or vocational — and to elevate the intellectual, spiritual, social, and moral standards of Black youth.
The Order of The Lamp, Inc. offers scholarships and grants to high school graduates from Glen Rock High School and Ridgewood High School. Scholarships are provided throughout all four years of their undergraduate education, a unique benefit that sets our organization apart from others. Over the years, the organization has provided significant financial support to recipients accepted into leading colleges and universities across the United States. These individuals consistently achieve outstanding academic success and go on to make meaningful contributions to their families, communities, and society at large.
Founded on January 30, 1950 by Ella Rae Saunders & Family, the Order continues its annual celebrations and journals — including the 70th Anniversary in 2020 ("Growing Strong at Seventy — Keeping the Legacy Alive") and the 71st Annual Fundraiser in 2021 ("Platinum and Pearls").