Lutheran Services in Iowa

11/21/2025

During the month of October, we were honored to recognize five exceptional individuals chosen by the LSI Leadership Team for their dedication, contributions, and the authentic way they live out their WHY—their personal mission statement—each and every day.

These team members were awarded the Leadership Team Thank You Award in appreciation of the meaningful impact they have on those they serve/work with and our LSI mission.

Please join us in celebrating these remarkable team members:

Kathy Rockwell
Support Caseworker - Foster Care & Adoption - 37 years at LSI

Cheyenne Ailiff
LPHA I (Therapist) - Clinical Services - Davenport - 9 1/2 Years at LSI

Heather Hall
Support Caseworker - Foster Care & Adoption - Denison - 5 Years at LSI

Ezra Allen
Host Homes Coordinator - Services for People with Disabilities - Des Moines - 8 Years at LSI (photo not available)

Aileen Eatherton
Respite Program Supervisor - Services for People with Disabilities - Council Bluffs - 8 Years at LSI (photo not available)

11/20/2025

On November 18, Vinh Nguyen was honored as the 2025 recipient of the Teree Caldwell-Johnson Lifetime Service Achievement Award at the Iowa Refugee Summit, hosted by the Refugee Alliance of Central Iowa .

Vinh’s lifelong dedication to refugee and immigrant communities has shaped countless lives across Central Iowa. His leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment embody the very spirit of this award.

From his own journey as a former refugee to his decades of work in education, community leadership, and newcomer support, Vinh has consistently shown what it means to serve with compassion and purpose. His impact reaches far beyond the classroom—touching individuals, families, and entire generations who now call Iowa home.

Thank you, Vinh, for your decades of service, for your heart for community, and for continuing to make Iowa a welcoming home for all.

11/20/2025

We were pleased to have Ed McGill, Wealth Management Advisor at McGill Junge Wealth Management, join us in recognizing LSI’s 160 years of service. His support and dedication to strengthening our community are truly appreciated.

Thank you Ed, for your partnership and the impact you create.

11/19/2025

LSI staff was honored to attend the 2025 Iowa Refugee Summit yesterday, hosted by the Refugee Alliance of Central Iowa.

Powerful discussions took place throughout the day, focusing on the needs, challenges, and strengths of Iowa’s newcomer communities.

We’re grateful to be part of a community committed to supporting refugee and immigrant families across Iowa.

11/18/2025

Thank you to the Siouxland Community Foundation 💙

Their generous $5,000 grant is helping us deliver 50 Teen Parenting groups in Dakota County, providing vital support like diapers and car seats for young parents. Together, we’re empowering youth and supporting early childhood development and educational success! 🌟

11/17/2025

The entire LSI family, along with all whose lives she touched, mourns the loss of Deb Cochuyt (Whitford). We are deeply grateful for her love, leadership, and unwavering passion for those she served. Her legacy will live on in the many hearts she impacted. May she rest in eternal peace. 💙

11/16/2025

It was an honor to have Pastor Brian Brown of Hope ELIM Church be part of LSI’s 160-year milestone. His passion for people and his commitment to building a stronger, more hopeful community continue to inspire us.

Thank you, Pastor Brown, for the light and leadership you bring.

11/15/2025

Supportive Saturday 💚 | National Adoption Month

This month, we’re highlighting the incredible LSI team members whose compassion and commitment bring hope and healing to children and families across Iowa.

Meet Dawn Luetje, Foster Care and Adoption Program Director.

“When I moved back to Iowa, I sought out employment at LSI because I wanted to work at a faith-based agency that helped children and families through foster care and adoption! I have stayed with LSI because the mission aligns with my values! As I raised my children, I never missed one of my children’s activities because LSI not only served families but also understood that family needs to come first for their employees as well. I have learned so much from my colleagues and the resource families that I have worked with. Foster and Adoptive Parents are amazing to work with and their value is irreplaceable.”

Thank you, Dawn, for your 35 years of leadership, dedication, and passion for helping Iowa families thrive — and for the heart you bring to every part of your work. 💙

We serve families in 30 western Iowa counties, including major cities like Council Bluffs, Sioux City, Storm Lake, and surrounding areas.

11/14/2025

As we continue to celebrate LSI’s 160 years throughout this year, we’re excited to highlight the incredible community leaders who continue to support our mission.

Thank you, Ako Abdul-Sammad, CEO of Creative Visions, for celebrating with us and for your unwavering commitment to uplifting our community. Your leadership and vision truly make a difference every day.

11/13/2025

Today, we’re thrilled to celebrate Sheryl Christensen, our Accounts Receivable Technician, for reaching an incredible 30 years with LSI! 💫

Sheryl’s commitment, attention to detail, and steady support have made such a lasting impact across our organization. Her hard work and heart for LSI’s mission truly inspire us all.

Thank you, Sheryl, for three decades of excellence, loyalty, and service, we’re so grateful for all you’ve done and continue to do! 💙

11/13/2025

Today we celebrate World Kindness Day — and the incredible kindness our LSI staff, volunteers, and supporters show every day. 💙💚

Together, we’re creating hope, healing, and brighter futures across Iowa.

11/12/2025

Asmaa’s story is a powerful example of how determination and community support can turn dreams into reality. 💫

We’ll be featuring two business clients each month—celebrating their hard work and success!