J.K. Rowling launches US arm of Lumos non-profit created to keep kids, families together

NEW YORK, N.Y. – “Harry Potter” author J.K. Rowling is hoping to tap into American philanthropic efforts and international relations as she launches the U.S. arm of her non-profit Lumos that works to keep disadvantaged children worldwide with their families and out of institutions.

Rowling told The Associated Press on Thursday that she’s certain institutionalized childcare can be done away with by 2050. She calls the work her “unselfish life ambition.” The organization estimates about 8 million children are cared for in institutions worldwide.

Rowling is in New York City to mark the start of Lumos USA. She originally founded Lumos in Europe to help countries reform how they deal with vulnerable children. It’s named after a light-giving magic spell in her phenomenally successful series about a boy wizard.