What is Hilltopia?
“Provide the Hilltop Community with the means to rebuild, heal, and sustain itself.”
— Hilltopia Mission Statement
Hilltopia was founded in 2016–17 in response to a community that had endured decades of pain — particularly the devastating effects of the war on drugs in the early 1990s through the early 2000s, which took a profound toll on Tacoma's Hilltop neighborhood.
What emerged was not a charity — it was a community brand, a movement, a collective expression of resilience. Hilltopia is education, music, commerce, and advocacy, all in service of one purpose: the resurrection of the Hilltop.
Our History
The war on drugs devastates the Hilltop neighborhood of Tacoma. Community bonds are strained under systemic pressures.
Larry F. Norman begins 33 years of continuous community advocacy — organizing, educating, and uplifting the Hilltop through events, seminars, and direct service.
Hilltopia is founded. A community brand emerges from lived experience — offering education, music, merchandise, and weekly inspiration.
Hilltopia continues to grow — building resources, community programming, and a legacy of hope for the Hilltop and beyond.
About Larry F. Norman
Master's in Educational Instructional Design
Academic credentials grounding his commitment to community education.
Published Author
Various publications reflecting his wisdom, advocacy, and life experience.
Advocacy for the Incarcerated
Provides advocacy services to individuals in the Department of Corrections.
Musician
Music designed for community collaboration and positive artistic expression.
Filmmaker
Visual storytelling that documents and elevates community narratives.
Family Man
Loving father, grandfather, uncle, and dedicated family member.
Community Builder
Events, seminars, and advocacy that inform, inspire, and motivate.
Nonprofit Founder
HillShop proceeds support his nonprofit, serving the community directly.
Back the Hilltop Mission
Purchasing from The HillShop is the most direct way to fund Larry's nonprofit and sustain community programming in Tacoma's Hilltop. Every item sold keeps the mission alive.
Shop & Support →Community Events & Seminars
Larry hosts regular community events and seminars focused on information, inspiration, and motivation. These gatherings are the heartbeat of Hilltopia — bringing the community together to grow, heal, and build.