Building a Life In Dana Village
By: Bev Carlson
AVP, Marketing, Communications, and Advocacy
For Sanchez, the road to Dana Village was a long and traumatic one. At only 18, he had lived in at least ten foster homes, and not all of them good ones. He’s still fighting the demons from horrific abuse, but finally, he says — he is on the road to healing. Still, he knows he has a long way to go.
Sanchez was facing immediate homelessness after his last birthday, but with the help of Lutheran Family Services (LFS) and others, he now has a place of his own at Dana Village in Blair.
In 2022, LFS assumed ownership of the former Dana College Campus — with the vision of helping someone just like Sanchez. With state and donor support, dorms were transformed into apartments. Many of the young people aging out of foster care can access specialized programming, like trauma therapy. The apartments also provide homes for low-income elderly people and others who meet strict requirements. As of this writing, the apartments are almost fully occupied.
“I couldn’t believe it when I walked in,” Sanchez says. “It’s so fancy and clean, and nothing like I’ve ever seen before.” He was used to small, broken down, and dirty places — and this was nothing like that. He especially loves the microwave, “You just put something in, and it’s done in a minute!”
Sanchez works hard at the local fast-food restaurant. He says he hits his hours pretty fast, and they are quick to call him in when they need a shift filled or extra help. He’s saving money, he says, and he’s proud of his growing bank account, which he says was on his list of goals. He’s planning to buy his own car in February. “I have all of these goals. Because I live here, I can plan to go to college next year.” Sanchez plans to go to cosmetology school, which he’s actively working towards.
“I couldn’t have done this without Dana Village. I have a real future here,” he says. “I’ve never had that before.”
- To learn more about the Dana Village project, you can visit OneLFS.org/Dana-Village.
- For more information about apartment rentals, visit danavillageblair.com.
- You can also ask questions and join the Dana Village mailing list by sending an email to dana@OneLFS.org.
Ways to Give at LFS
At LFS, we have the opportunity to make a life-changing impact in our community thanks to the support of our incredible donors. If you’re interested in becoming a donor, here are several options to help you find the right one for you.
Sustaining Giving
Make your monthly pledge here!
This dedicated group of consistent donors is the foundation of our wide range of services. Setting up a recurring donation is easy and can provide the essential support that LFS needs to carry out the mission you care about. All it takes is a voided check or an online donation (select the “monthly” option) to make a significant impact.
Did you know? A healthy donor base is indicated by the growth seen in the monthly giving pool. Many believe that contributing $20 a month won’t make a difference, but that is untrue. LFS has set a goal of signing up 50 new monthly givers in 2025.
Gifts of Grain Program
You can increase your gift by 30% or more while lowering taxable income.
Gifting grain directly from the elevator or Coop is one of the most efficient ways to support LFS. Gifts of Grain donors appreciate the ease and efficiency of this donation method, emphasizing the ability to be “great stewards” of the blessings given to you.
Planned Giving
Family, legacy, and charity.
Donors give because they care deeply about their favorite causes. As they support these causes during their lifetimes, they also think about how to continue their legacy after they are gone. Just as it’s essential to care for a child after your death, it’s vital to ensure your chosen cause thrives.
Nearly 70% of Americans still need an estate plan. Working with a financial expert can help ensure that your family and charitable interests are cared for in your absence. LFS offers a network of experts who can assist, often at little to no cost compared to standard attorney fees.
Wish Lists
Shop for our programs using Amazon
You can support various programs, including Refugee Resettlement and Children’s Services, by purchasing from our Wish Lists. By doing this, you help us serve more people and enhance the growth of our programs. Thank YOU!
LFS Wish Lists:
Thrivent Action Teams
A Generosity Multiplier!
Are you a Thrivent client? With Thrivent Action Teams, clients have led over 1.2 million projects, engaging 16 million volunteers and raising $1.9 billion for important causes.
How It Works:
Form a volunteer team of friends, family, or neighbors to host a fundraiser, educational event, or service activity—like a school supply drive or car wash. We offer resources to help you get started, including up to $250 in seed money.
To apply, you must be a Thrivent client with a membership. Learn More Here.
Lutheran Family Services (LFS) has partnered with Thrivent to allow you to support one of eight initiatives that need funding to provide care for over 20,000 clients.
Employer Match
Maximize your donation by checking if your employer matches it. Typically, the match rate is 1:1, but the amount may differ. Consult your organization for their specific rules and regulations.
If you are interested in becoming a LFS reach out to our Development Team at 531-444-3556 or email us at Dev.Gifts@onelfs.org. They are standing by.
The LFS Holiday Check-In Challenge Goes Through December
The LFS Holiday Check-In Challenge Lasts Through December
We want to thank everyone who has already prioritized checking in with their friends. Remember, connections matter—just a quick text or call can make a big impact.
There’s still time to Check In!
The Challenge runs until the end of the year, so keep reaching out to those who might need it. We have a great resource to assist you in connecting with loved ones. Check out our blog post, “Recognizing the Signs: Supporting Mental Health in Ourselves and Others.”
If you haven’t checked in, here is a reminder:
Follow us on social media for tips, resources, and inspiration from now until December 31, 2024. Learn More Here.
