Serving Illinois since 1867, Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI) is a statewide, not-for-profit social service agency of the three Illinois synods of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). The demographics of clients served by LSSI generally reflect those of Illinois’ population, with one important exception—more than 80 percent of clients report an annual household income under $15,000, compared to just 12 percent of all Illinois households. The organization provides critical programs for the state’s most vulnerable residents including foster care, mental health services, alcohol and drug treatment, affordable senior housing, residential programs for people with developmental disabilities, and programs that help formerly incarcerated individuals integrate back into society.
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We’re wearing crazy, mismatched socks to raise awareness for World Down Syndrome Day! Show your support by posting your and your coworkers' socks in the comments. #WorldDownSyndromeDay is today, the 21st day of the 3rd month, because people with down syndrome have a 3rd copy of the 21st chromosome. #LotsOfSocks #WDSD2025?
We are grateful that our social workers chose this vital profession and even more grateful that they chose to work at LSSI. Social work is one of the fastest growing careers in the United States, with 7% growth by 2033, forecast by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. To celebrate National Social Work Month and World Social Work Day, we asked a few from our Intact Program why they like working at LSSI? #SWMonth2025 #SocialWorkMonth #NASW #WSWD2025?
Such a great forum for discussion, education, and networking during our Mental Health Resource Fair at Irving Park Lutheran Church. Community leaders learned about our crucial mental health programs on the Northwest Side of Chicago, including counseling, crisis response, alcohol/substance abuse treatment, and how people can access them. Thanks to Cancer Wellness Center, Carlson Community Services, The Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, Community Alternatives Unlimited, a rep from the 39th Ward, and Pastor Bouman for attending. You can learn more about our mental health programs bit.ly/42sCdzO
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month where we honor the unique experiences, talents, and achievements of people with developmental disabilities. One of LSSI’s guiding principles is that adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities in our care should have a plan to live successfully in their community. We achieve that goal with several person-centered services. Let’s revisit a Coffee with Pastor Kelly episode where she reminds us to treat each other with compassion and value regardless of our abilities.?#DDAwareness?
Where would LSSI be without the generosity and foresight of Mary E.B. Shippert more than 100 years ago? She welcomed an orphaned girl into her home and realized how many parentless children needed help. Shippert donated 53 acres of rich, northern Illinois farmland in 1903 that would become a home for countless children.? Nachusa Lutheran Home evolved over the decades to meet the needs of children and families in the community. LSSI still offers several innovative services on the campus that is now owned by Dixon Public Schools, which operates a therapeutic day school in one of the buildings.? On International Women’s Day, during Women’s History Month, and every day of the year, we celebrate Mary Shippert and the incredible contributions of all of the women who have helped LSSI bring healing, justice, and wholeness to people and communities for 157 years and counting.
Tune in to Sanctuary every Sunday in March at noon on ABC’s Localish Network to watch uplifting and inspirational stories from LSSI. You can find it in the Chicago area on channel 7.2 or check with your cable provider. Sanctuary is produced by Greater Chicago Broadcast Ministries.?
Our Therapeutic Foster Care staff, new and seasoned, meet regularly with Treatment Foster Care Oregon (TFCO) for continuing education and discussion on the latest techniques for our evidence-based program. TFCO was developed as an alternative to institutional and group care placements for children with severe emotional or behavioral disorders.? Ashley McClellan, LSSI Therapeutic Foster Care Senior Director, says this in-service education ensures everyone delivers the TFCO model with fidelity to the vulnerable youth in our program. She adds, “LSSI’s working relationship with TFCO helps children in foster care by giving them the opportunity to receive treatment in a home environment. They are placed in a treatment home, and have a whole team wrapped around them to help decrease some problematic behaviors while increasing their prosocial skills.”?? Learn how you can make a lasting impact on a child’s life by joining our innovative Therapeutic Foster Care Program bit.ly/3DgsyS1
As we celebrate National Social Work Month, we’d like you to meet Marne. She started with LSSI as a social worker with our Children’s Community Services and now works as a supervisor for our Intact Family Services. Marne tells us why she became a social worker and how she’s making a difference in so many lives. Special thanks to all of our social workers who help LSSI serve 56,000 people across Illinois. #NationalSocialWorkMonth?
Well-deserved media coverage of our dedicated Comprehensive Community-Based Youth Services (CCBYS) team in the Rochelle News-Leader. The program has helped youth in Ogle County with crisis intervention for more than 35 years, and keeps them out of the juvenile justice and/or child welfare systems with 24-hour emergency services. Read the full article bit.ly/4bpX7C4
Happy 103rd birthday to longtime LSSI employee and donor, Jody Hedberg! She planned the first True Friend Celebration in 1982, helped organize the LSSI Women’s Network in 1983, and lives our mission every day. Just a few years ago, she shared with us what it means to support the crucial work of LSSI. Please join us in wishing Jody the happiest of birthdays!