Busting Poverty's Chains

LSSI Works program seeks to move people and families toward economic independence

By Tabitha Ervin
Ink Spot Contributing Editor

Lutheran Social Services of Indiana, better known as LSSI, has many programs that support the organization’s impact statement: to move willing families toward economic and family stability.

I was able to connect with Fatima Washington, who was recently promoted to Manager of LSSI Works, a workforce initiative by LSSI. The overarching goal of the program and the organization as a whole is to support individuals and families on the path to becoming sustainable. LSSI has three offices in Fort Wayne, as well as additional offices in South Bend, Warsaw, and Peru.

Tabitha: Fatima, tell me more about all the programs as I have only been familiar with LSSI Works.

Fatima: We have the following programs, all focused on families and individuals in our community: Community Partners; Children's Village; ECHO (known as Education Creates Hope and Opportunity); Cup of Kindness/Financial Stability; Department of Child Services (DCS); LSSI Works; Balance Works; Gear Up Program; and Recovery Care. The full descriptions can be found online at our website: lssin.org

Tabitha: Wow, that's a lot of programs and services! I am impressed and had no idea! So how do people get connected or find out about these services?

Fatima: There are a variety of ways for individuals to access services. It varies by program, but for any program, the easiest way to start is to call our Fort Wayne offices (260.426.3347). Staff can discuss each individual’s needs to determine what program would be the best fit and help them.

Tabitha: Tell me more about your position and the organization as a whole.

Fatima: LSSI is here to help and support families and get them connected to resources. We look at the whole person and the obstacles that may prevent or inhibit them. At LSSI Works we know that not every program is for everyone but if a person wants to “break cycles” we are the place for them. We look to support any person who is unemployed, unhappy, or under-employed and looking for a change or to find their real purpose or interests in life!

LSSI Works is the proud first affiliate of the CARA program in Chicago, which has worked to combat homelessness and unemployment in Chicago for more than 30 years. We are proud to take their model and adapt it to meet the needs of our community here in Allen County.

We focus on making sure our participants obtain sustainable employment and help them to maintain their position for a year. To meet this goal, LSSI Works participants receive support during the program and while on the job for the first year with our Job Retention Coach We are so proud to have 84% of our participants meet one year of employment, and know that once they hit that one-year milestone, they have a chance at greater continued success in their future and we make sure to celebrate that with them.