Dear friends,

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As I reflect on the past year, I am reminded of the words of President John F. Kennedy: "Every area of trouble gives out a ray of hope; and the one unchangeable certainty is that nothing is certain or unchangeable."

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At LCSNW, bright rays of hope have illuminated our path through a year marked by changes and challenges—but also by profound growth. Together, we have transformed compassion into action—partnering with individuals, families, and communities for health, justice, and hope.

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One of the most difficult challenges happened this spring when we paused refugee resettlement, a program at the heart of who we are. Shifts in federal policy and funding forced this painful decision. We continue to grieve with staff, partners, and the newcomers we are committed to serve. And yet our resolve remains strong; we are actively engaged in reimagining and rebuilding our work of welcome for the years ahead, even as we keep serving immigrants and refugees in a variety of other ways. The story of Atifa from Afghanistan offers just one example.

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I am glad to report that we have intensified our focus on mental health and wellness, recognizing the escalating needs across our communities. Our Wraparound with Intensive Services (WISe) program exemplifies this commitment. Serving Medicaid-eligible youth under 21 with significant mental health challenges, WISe offers a family-centered, team-based approach that empowers young people to remain safely in their homes and communities. WISe fosters resilience and long-term stability, as you can see in the remarkable story of Patrick Garrison. We offer WISe in three of our Districts: Tri-Cities, Spokane and Greater Puget Sound.

 

Our dedication to holistic well-being also shines through in programs such as Santa for Seniors. This initiative combats the isolation and loneliness experienced by many older adults by delivering thoughtful gifts and fostering intergenerational connections throughout the year. In 2024, Santa for Seniors reached more than 11,000 seniors across 16 counties in Washington and expanded into Oregon, Alaska, and Minnesota. A sweet story from our new site in Bellingham shows how the Santa for Seniors team is bringing joy and companionship to thousands.

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We also have deepened our impact through the ongoing integration of Compass Housing Alliance; through the expansion of LCSNW housing services for people like Christine Hatton; and through the growth of innovative partnerships such as The Lutheran Collaborative.

Looking forward, our AI Task Force is charting new territory — exploring how technology can enhance access, reduce paperwork burdens, and allow our staff to focus on what matters most: human connection and care.

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Rooted in the Lutheran tradition of service, we remain committed to walking alongside the most vulnerable with love, integrity, and bold vision. Your trust and partnership make all this possible. Thank you for joining us as we build healthier, more just, and more hopeful communities.

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With deep gratitude and hope,

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David Duea​