Helping more youth ‘reclaim’ their lives from the dark is wise use of LCSNW resources
LCSNW has made a strategic decision to keep growing a popular family support program. The WISe program – which stands for Wraparound with Intensive Services – has operated in the Tri-Cities and Spokane for several years and recently expanded to King County. WISe...
LCSNW unveils Safe Route Immigration – new name, same trusted resource
Lutheran Community Services Northwest has provided empathetic, accessible legal guidance to immigrants and refugees since 1979. This month, we are switching to a new logo, a new look, a new website and a new name for the legal services program – Safe Route...
LCSNW therapist has ripple effect on Spokane children for 20 years and counting
Congratulations to Sharon O'Brien for her 20-year anniversary with LCSNW in Spokane. As one of her coworkers said: "It's impossible to measure how Sharon's positive impact is rippling out into the world. What a beautiful contribution in a world that really needs it!" ...
‘We lost our lives one year ago’ – Tetiana fled Ukraine, finds purpose on LCSNW staff
By Shelly Strom/ LCSNW Communications Specialist Tetiana Kolodii said she’s still reeling from what her life was like just 12 months ago in her Ukrainian homeland. “Almost every time I hear news about my city, I have this PTSD-type response. I think every Ukrainian...
LCSNW brings extra sweet Valentines to seniors with help from our partners
Here’s an example of how the many elves in our Santa for Seniors program are finding ways to spread cheer year-round. LCSNW teamed up with another organization and a small, minority-owned business to bring smiles and sweet treats to seniors in the South Puget Sound...
You’re never too old to become a U.S. citizen; just ask 85-year-old Beatriz
Congratulations to Beatriz, who with support from our citizenship program, passed the U.S. naturalization exam and took the oath of citizenship in December at 85 years old. Beatriz is from Venezuela and came to the United States six years ago when she had a health...
She grew up with over 60 LCSNW foster siblings. Now she’s joined our Board
Cathy Neer was raised in a home filled with love and the aroma of homemade bread and pies. The place was always bustling with the activities of Cathy and her three siblings. A rotating cast of temporary foster children took things to a whole other level. Most of the...
Follow Tacoma-area volunteers on their year-long journey with a refugee family
About the program LCS Northwest's Circle of Welcome program allows faith and community groups to walk alongside a refugee or refugee family for one year. There are three models: Newly-Arrived, Post-Arrival, and Distant Partner. Each includes a minimum financial...
LCSNW victim advocates join fight against human trafficking
Human trafficking is a global problem that shows up in local communities. During Human Trafficking Prevention Month in January, we spoke with Abigail Dougherty, a Crime Victim Advocate in the LCSNW Spokane office, about the signs, causes and options for victims of...
Formerly homeless, she now serves others as an LCSNW housing navigator
Melanie Curtis loves her job. She didn’t think it would be such a rough road to find work that is as fulfilling as what she found at LCSNW. But today she’s happy to help others in ways that draw deeply from her personal life struggles. “I’ve been through every...
Small towns, big shoes to fill: LCSNW says farewell to two Board members
When you live in a “ville,” you tend to have a distinctly non-urban perspective -- with some exceptions, such as Nashville and Jacksonville -- that other people may overlook. Barbara Smithson and Mike Wilson brought that valuable rural frame of reference to the LCSNW...
Holiday generosity abounds: LCSNW Portland, Tri-Cities teams use different models
Families around the Pacific Northwest are finding the holidays much brighter thanks to several LCSNW programs. This year, we spotlight how our teams are helping spread cheer in two communities, using two different approaches. In the Portland area, 52 families from...
Long-time LCSNW therapist, child welfare leader is new Spokane District Director
For Shelly Hahn, there are many reasons why she’s remained more than 18 years with the Inland Northwest District of LCS Northwest, and why she’s now eager to serve as District Director. LCSNW Spokane’s top-notch reputation for care really matters to Shelly. So does...