Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota

The oldest building on the grounds of Camp Knutson, a service of LSS, will soon be renovated. Thanks to a generous donation from Gary and Peg Janisch, Hilltop Cabin will be updated with a new split entry and new lower-level bedrooms and baths, laundry facilities and kitchen area. Hilltop was once the summer retreat of Congressman Harold Knutson, who gifted his property to be used as a camp for kids who otherwise wouldn't be able to go to camp. Today, Camp Knutson is a supportive, medically-sound camp for individuals with disabilities, medical conditions and other identified needs. Open year-round, Camp K also serves as the perfect setting for retreats, conferences, and other special events September through May. Learn more about Hilltop's renovation project and the generous gift from the Janisches: https://lnkd.in/gUZ6X4p4

The Twin Cities Benefit for Youth is just one week away! We are thrilled to join our friends and supporters to celebrate all the ways that, together, we are Reaching Further to support youth and families! Additionally, on May 14th, we invite you to join us for the Benefit for Youth in Duluth. Join the movement and help provide safe and stable homes and opportunities for children and families to thrive in the community. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gBzmQbM6

We are seeking dedicated volunteers for our statewide Neighbor to Neighbor Companion service. You can make a difference in the life of an older adult, share your skills, meet new people, and have fun in the community. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gdsjNzAR

When Venessa learned about LSS Host Homes, she asked her guardian to look into it as an option. “I decided to move and live in a Host Home to be happier and healthier,” said Venessa. She told Judy, who would become her Host Home provider, “This feels like home. Can I come here to stay?” LSS Host Homes is a life sharing service for individuals looking for more independence in community with family-style support. LSS’ experienced team offers ongoing support, so everyone feels comfortable and supported. Venessa highly recommends LSS Host Homes. What she loves most about living in a Host Home is “being a family!” “I also like that I can have coffee whenever I want and don’t have to get permission to have a cup. This is the first time that I am learning about my medications and what they all do for me. I am finding that I have had far more good days than bad since moving here. Here, they care about me. I don’t have to stick to a routine – we can be flexible here. I really like that people are here to work with me.” Learn more about LSS Host Homes:

As we wrap up April, we want to recognize Autism Acceptance Month! Let's celebrate and embrace the unique gifts that each individual brings to the world. Did you know one in 36 Minnesotans has autism spectrum disorder, the third highest rate of the 11 data collection sites throughout the country. By raising awareness and promoting acceptance, we can create a culture of understanding and celebrate neurodiversity. To learn more about autism, check out some of the statistics from the Autism Society of Minnesota: • Boys are four times more likely than girls to be diagnosed with Autism. • Autism affects all ethnic and socioeconomic groups. • The median age of the first ASD diagnosis by a community provider in Minnesota was 63 months (or five years, three months) of age. ASD can be diagnosed by two years of age. Minnesota is identifying children with ASD at much later ages than is recommended. For more information, visit https://ausm.org/ Graphics courtesy of Autism Society.

Sheletta Brundidge recently invited Jessica Girard and Ashley Giguere from PICS (Partners in Community Supports), a subsidiary of LSS, to speak about self-directed services on her podcast, "Taking Authority Over Autism." Learn more about why self-directed and licensed services are a lifeline for the families PICS serves: https://lnkd.in/gxDs-ZbZ Listen to the podcast:

Happy Volunteer Appreciation Week! At Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota, our volunteers are the heart of our team and help us keep going. Meet Charlie Korinta, a 94-year-old Senior Companion volunteer from Detroit Lakes who has been making a difference in the lives of older adults for 27 years. Charlie visits older adults weekly, offering them companionship, running errands, grocery shopping and providing transportation to appointments. Through his volunteer work, Charlie has not only helped older adults maintain their independence, but he has also formed meaningful relationships with them and gained valuable life experiences. Charlie's story is a great reminder of the importance of volunteering and how it can positively impact not only the lives of those being served but also the volunteers themselves. According to a recent survey, over 90% of volunteers with LSS agree that their volunteer experience has changed their life in a positive way, and almost 85% feel more socially connected because of their service as a volunteer. If you're interested in becoming a Senior Companion volunteer like Charlie, LSS is currently seeking volunteers who can offer at least five hours of volunteer service per week. Volunteers receive an hourly stipend, a chance to stay connected, and a meaningful opportunity to make a difference in the lives of older adults. No prior volunteer experience is needed, and training is provided. Visit https://lnkd.in/gspmF8mF to learn more.

Shannon Doyle, financial education program manager with LSS Financial Counseling, talked with Pam Lundell on 98.5 KTIS Radio's Community Spotlight program about LSS Financial Counseling's wide range of services available, including Debt Management Plans — an effective way to tackle credit card debt — as well as identity theft prevention strategies. Listen now: https://lnkd.in/dgGXSd_7

Hey there, soccer fans! Get ready for an exciting evening of fellowship and fun with LSS! We are excited to announce that on June 8th, we will host 500 friends and supporters at Minnesota United’s match against FC Dallas. But this isn’t JUST another soccer match! When you purchase a ticket for June 8th, you'll also support the fight against youth homelessness; $5 from each ticket purchased will be donated to LSS Metro Homeless Youth Services. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to enjoy a great game with friends and help make a difference in our community. Hurry, tickets are limited! Get yours today and join us for an unforgettable night of soccer and giving back. Grab your tickets: https://rb.gy/3qf0m7

Thank you for sharing YOUR love of LSS Meals on Wheels earlier this year! In partnership with neighbors like you, Muscatell Subaru in Moorhead and Subaru of America, Inc., LSS Meals on Wheels received a $5,000 gift through the 2023-2024 Subaru Share the Love campaign! Thank you for your unwavering generosity and support of the older adults we serve. #MealsOnWheelsAmerica