A Message From Our President and CEO Rebecca Kiesow-Knudsen
mox·ie [mäksē] noun
force of character, determination or nerve; energy, pep; courage, determination; know-how
Yes, that headline is bold and might sound a bit surprising. Lutheran service organizations like LSS of South Dakota are not often known for our moxie. We are known for hard work, stability, dedication, resilience and meeting community needs. We put our heads down and get the work done without fanfare or accolades. But in these coming years we will need to demonstrate our agency’s moxie to equip our clients to be resilient and thrive in strong, healthy families, and by doing so contribute to vibrant, resilient communities.
Federal funding accounts for approximately 23 percent of our operating budget and contributes to important programs such as counseling for victims of violent crime, homeownership education, refugee resettlement, parenting classes and more. And regrettably, our government funding is declining just as the people we serve need us more than ever.
The paradox could be daunting, if it weren’t for our firm legacy and people like you. Instead, because of your support and the foresight of those who came before me, our organization will face the future with confidence, maybe even a bit of moxie. We have endured a depression, a world war, many recessions and two pandemics. Through all of it we have remained a steady and strong presence for the people of South Dakota. We not only will endure but also come out of this time strong and ready to face the next challenge as well.
Much of LSS’s work is accomplished one person at a time, through services like mental health counseling sessions, mentor visits, individualized debt management and home studies. Our days are full of human-centered connections and quiet victories that don’t end up on the evening news. But we know this work has ripple effects that are transforming lives and communities across the state.
Future generations will look back on this time in LSS’s history, and my goal as its leader is that they will see resilience, ingenuity and a spirit of tenacity that stood firm in our vision that all people in South Dakota will be healthy, safe and accepted.
Thank you for joining with us in our mission to care for, support and strengthen individuals, families and communities.
