March came in like a lion at Lutheran Family Services this year! It has been a whirlwind of activity (even more than usual) as we launched expanded behavioral health programming, celebrated our champions, and brought solid relief to one of our communities.
Love for Lexington, Nebraska
The most public example of LFS community impact is in Lexington, Nebraska. In November, in the weeks before Thanksgiving, the announcement came that one-third of the jobs in the community were disappearing when the Tyson plant closed. The shock was overwhelming and rattled nearly every home in the community. A three-person LFS Lexington team jumped into action – opening doors to whoever asked.
Serendipitously, the office had launched a new community computer lab last summer. Those computers became a lifeline for people looking for jobs, needing help with filing unemployment, or looking for classes. The small LFS staff, with some support from our other offices, worked tirelessly to remove barriers for people seeking answers or support. Over 1,000 people found what they needed.
As closing day approached, LFS sent additional staff to Lexington to provide therapy and counseling, either onsite or via Telehealth. As the word spread about how LFS was meeting needs, more began to show up. “I heard you got my friend a job,” was common. The buzz made it to Lincoln and Washington, DC – and the office hosted decisionmakers who wanted to see for themselves.
Ultimately, a major donor made it possible for LFS to distribute emergency cash funds to those still seeking new employment. All the appointments filled within days. This work continues for as long as needed.
Taking Therapy to the Streets
Becoming a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) means significant expansion of behavioral health, especially around Fremont, Omaha, and Lincoln – but also all the way to Scottsbluff. CCBHC status requires certain services, like crisis response and care coordination.
In addition, LFS is putting two mobile vans on the road in the coming months. These vans will be able to provide therapy services in locations where currently few services exist. “We want to be available to all Nebraskans and Southwest Iowans who need us,” says President and CEO Chris Tonniges. “We’re excited about what these vans mean for meeting that goal. Between our offices, Telehealth, and the mobile vans – we are one step closer to being there.” You’ll be hearing much more about the vans this spring.
Recap: Raise for LFS’ Inaugural Event
Lutheran Family Services found a sweet new way to honor its champions. At the beautiful venue, A View West Shores, “Raise for LFS” honored those whose dedication has built LFS into the growing organization it is today, while raising funds to support future work. On March 12, nearly 250 guests enjoyed heavy hors d’oeuvres and a dessert buffet, created by some of Nebraska’s beloved food artisans. Aaron Davis, former Husker and cancer survivor, served as emcee as LFS established these new awards:
Ruth Henrichs Society (in Dedication to LFS)
Named after the former CEO who was part of LFS for 40 years, this awards honors employees with more than 15 years of service. We were delighted to have Ruth attending and able to help us honor nine this year, including Sue Huebner who has 31 years with LFS in North Platte!
Faith in Action Award (for Churches)
This award goes to congregations who have demonstrated exceptional and ongoing support for the work of LFS.
Honorees: Kountze Memorial Lutheran Church and Just Serve – The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Graef-Fogelstrom Award (for Leadership and Dedication to the LFS Mission)
Named after the founding pastors of LFS, this honor goes to individuals and businesses for their leadership and dedication.
Honorees: Della Gascho, Mycki Nissen, and Centris Federal Credit Union
Heart of LFS Award
The “Heart of LFS” honors an individual or organization whose compassion and service embody the mission and values of LFS.
Honoree: Children’s Nebraska
The Builders of Hope Award
Dedicated to an individual or organization whose work and commitment has greatly impacted LFS.
Honoree: Gaye Lynn Schaffart, Tenaska Marketing Ventures, LFS Board
The inaugural event, which reflected the best of LFS, raised over $126,000 for the organization. Please consider joining us next year! You can also keep tabs on our events by visiting the LFS events page. Up next – Fremont Family Friends in June.
