LSS Veteran’s Housing Program Faces Uncertain Future
PBS Wisconsin recently highlighted the role Lutheran Social Services (LSS) plays in helping homeless veterans through the Veterans Housing and Recovery Program (VHRP) at Klein Hall in Chippewa Falls.
Since opening in 2007, Klein Hall has helped roughly 1,000 veterans rebuild their lives through stable housing, job training, addiction recovery, and life skills support.
Randy Withrow, LSS Site Director at Klein Hall. Courtesy: PBS Wisconsin
Randy Withrow, Klein Hall’s site director for LSS, emphasized that homelessness is rarely just from lacking shelter. It stems from complex challenges like legal issues, mental health struggles, substance abuse, and financial instability.
Under LSS’s management, the program works to “shore up these areas” so veterans can successfully transition to independent living.
Funding shortfalls in the 2025-37 state budget mean Klein Hall and another LSS facility in Green Bay are scheduled to close at the end of September, leaving only the LSS facility in Union Grove site open statewide.
Withrow voiced concern that disrupting the program could push some veterans back into homelessness.
Read the full PBS Wisconsin article here.
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LSS Supports New Affordable Townhomes on Madison’s West Side
Courtesy: City of Madison
MADISON, Wis., July, 28, 2025 — The City of Madison recently celebrated the completion of six new townhomes on Theresa Terrace, bringing much-needed affordable housing to the city’s west side. Replacing two aging and long-vacant duplexes, the new three-bedroom homes—each over 2,000 square feet—are permanently affordable to households earning up to 60% of the Area Median Income. This redevelopment reflects years of collaboration between the Community Development Authority (CDA), city leaders, and neighborhood residents, with strong support from Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway and Alder Barbara Harrington-McKinney.
Lutheran Social Services is proud to be managing these properties on behalf of the Madison Revitalization and Community Development Corporation (MRCDC), the CDA’s nonprofit partner. This project, funded in part by the City’s Affordable Housing Fund, not only showcases the potential for “missing middle” housing in established neighborhoods but also represents a concrete step toward building a more inclusive and economically diverse Madison. The first families are expected to move in within the next month.
LSS CEO Héctor Colón Shares Vision and Values in BizTimes Interview
In a recent interview with BizTimes, LSS President and CEO Héctor Colón reflected on innovation, resilience, and the road ahead for Lutheran Social Services.
Colón credits LSS’s culture—rooted in compassion, humility, and courageous leadership—for fueling transformative change. When LSS faced financial instability, tough internal questions led to breakthrough ideas that revitalized the organization, strengthened morale, and expanded its impact.
One of his favorite success stories? Hearing from a colleague who once considered leaving but now sees LSS as a place to thrive. “That’s the kind of impact that matters most,” said Colón.
At the heart of it all is a commitment to people: empowering staff to lead from wherever they are and serving clients with dignity and compassion.
“Compassion is our secret sauce,” said Colón. “We listen deeply and care personally.”
LSS Awarded $1 Million to Reopen Libertas Treatment Center in Chippewa Falls
Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (LSS) will receive $1 million in state funding to renovate and reopen the L.E. Phillips Libertas Treatment Center in Chippewa Falls.
State Senator Jesse James (Left) and State Representative Clint Moses (Right) the two authors of the provision granting LSS $1 million. Courtesy: Facebook
The funding, a provision to the state budget authored by State Senator Jesse James (R-Thorp) and State Representative Clint Moses (R-Menomonie), follows the closure of major behavioral health facilities in the region, which left a significant gap in mental health and addiction treatment.
The new LSS-operated facility will offer 50 beds for medically monitored and transitional residential treatment.
“This grant is proof that strategic public-private partnerships can bring meaningful change to our communities,” said Héctor Colón, President and CEO of LSS. “Thanks to the leadership of Sen. Jesse James, Rep. Clint Moses, and all who supported this bill, LSS can help preserve and expand behavioral health and substance use treatment in the Chippewa Valley. These are much needed services for the community right now. LSS is ready to rise to the occasion.”
LSS CEO featured on UWM Chancellor’s Report Podcast
Héctor Colón (on screen) joined Dr. Gale Klappa (middle right), Dr. Eve Hall (middle left), in a discussion with Chancellor Mark Mone (far left) WUWM’s General Manager David Lee (far right). Photo Courtesy: Kari Pink/UW-Milwaukee
LSS President and CEO Héctor Colón was recently featured on a special edition of “The Chancellor’s Report” a University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee podcast hosted by Chancellor Mark Mone and WUWM General Manager David Lee.
Alongside fellow distinguished alumni Dr. Gale Klappa and Dr. Eve Hall, Héctor shared how his time at UWM helped shape his personal and professional journey. The conversation highlighted each guest’s unique path to success and the lasting impact of their UWM experience.
As a proud UWM alumnus, Héctor reflected on how education, perseverance, and service guided his rise to leadership at Lutheran Social Services.
LSS Featured in Alcohol Awareness Coverage
In recognition of Alcohol Awareness Month, WEAU News in Eau Claire interviewed local health experts to raise awareness about the dangers of alcohol misuse and the importance of seeking help early. Brittany Nessel, Clinical Manager for LSS, was featured as a trusted voice on the topic.
LSS Clinical Manager Brittany Nessel. Courtesy: WEAU News
“Alcohol withdrawal is deadly,” said Nessel. “It’s the perfect time to have some of these conversations that are incredibly critical and can be awkward or uncomfortable.”
Nessel spoke to the stigma that still surrounds addiction, pointing out that nearly everyone knows someone who has struggled with substance use. She also emphasized that people don’t have to wait until they’re in crisis to get support.
“There’s a misconception that you need to hit rock bottom before seeking help,” she said. “But there are many forms of support available earlier – and if LSS doesn’t offer the right service, we’ll help you find one that fits.”
LSS provides addiction and recovery services throughout the state, supporting individuals at all stages of their journey. If you or someone you know is concerned about alcohol use, you don’t have to go it alone.
To watch the full report and interview with Brittany click here.
LSS’ plans to reopen L.E. Phillips Libertas facility move forward
CHIPPEWA FALLS, Wis. – February 5, 2025 – Last night, the Chippewa Falls City Council unanimously approved a special use permit for Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (LSS) to repurpose the former L.E. Phillips Libertas building as a facility for substance use disorder treatment.
L.E. Phillips was closed last year, and LSS saw a critical need in the community for substance use disorder treatment. LSS plans for the facility to offer a range of services similar to those currently offered at other LSS facilities in the area, and services similar to those formerly offered at L.E. Phillips Libertas.
LSS is calling on individuals, businesses, and philanthropic foundations who are passionate about supporting the community to join the effort. Contributions of any size are welcome, and naming opportunities will be available for major donors. Those interested in learning more should contact Paul Peterson, LSS Manager of Donor Advising who lives in the Eau Claire community at (262) 606-8993 or Paul.Peterson@lsswis.org.
City Council grants special use permit to LSS for operations out of former L.E. Phillips Libertas Building
For Immediate Release
City Council grants special use permit to LSS for operations out of former L.E. Phillips Libertas Building
The Wisconsin non-profit will expand its program to fill a critical service need in the area.
CHIPPEWA FALLS, Wis., Feb. 4, 2025 – The Chippewa Falls City Council voted unanimously (5-0) to approve a special use permit allowing Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (LSS) to utilize the former L.E. Phillips Libertas building for much needed substance use disorder treatment services. The L.E. Phillips building has been shuttered for the past year.
“We are thrilled to receive the City Council’s support,” said Tara Treglowne, LSS Vice President of Adult Residential & Long-Term Care. “We’ve said from the beginning that we will need the help and support of this community, and tonight’s vote is a great first step.”
LSS plans to offer a range of services like those previously provided at L.E. Phillips Libertas and that are already available through the organization’s existing programs.
“We hope this expansion will help bridge a gap in treatment and recovery services,” said Treglowne. “These are vital services that many individuals and families need.”
LSS is calling on individuals, businesses, and philanthropic foundations who are passionate about supporting the community to join the effort. Contributions of any size are welcome, and naming opportunities will be available for major donors. Those interested in learning more should contact Paul Peterson, LSS Manager of Donor Advising who lives in the Eau Claire community at (262) 606-8993 or Paul.Peterson@lsswis.org.
“LSS has operated in the Chippewa Falls area for nearly 40 years,” said Treglowne. “This project is a chance for LSS to grow our mission and make an even greater positive impact on our community. We look forward to continuing this process.”
There is no word yet on when services will be available at that site.
ABOUT LSS
Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (LSS) is made up of nearly 700 professional treatment teams and peer specialists, the majority of whom are right in your community. Programs across our two-state reach address needs around housing, adoption, disabilities, refugee resettlement, mental health and substance use. LSS programs empower individuals to address life’s toughest challenges outside of a hospital or other institution. LSS’ expanded system of care offers short and long-term solutions for recovery, personal development, and independent living through safe, stable, and loving environments.
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MEDIA CONTACT
George Kmetty, Public Relations Specialist
George.Kmetty@lsswis.org
262-693-6825
LSS Refugee Program Director featured in Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
MILWAUKEE, Wis. – January 31, 2025 – LSS Refugee Resettlement Program Director Omar Mohamed was interviewed in an article in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. While the article highlights different groups working with Refugees throughout the area, Omar spoke to LSS’ proactive stand amid a federal order to stop funds for refugee resettlement services.
Omar highlighted the unprecedented nature of the current directives but spoke about LSS’ strong “moral obligation” to continue refugee services.
Anyone interested in supporting refugee efforts can visit www.lsswis.org to donate, or volunteer.
You can read the entire article by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Reporter Sophie Carson here.
LSS Refugee Resettlement Program In the News
MILWAUKEE, Wis. – Jan. 28, 2025 – Ever since President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order halting the United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) the landscape around refugee resettlement services has been rapidly evolving. Two news reports in Madison and Milwaukee highlighted Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan’s (LSS) steadfast commitment to supporting refugees.
WMTV 15 in Madison highlighted LSS’ extensive history in refugee resettlement, having helped resettle 11,000 refugees over the past 50 years. The report notes that LSS reaffirms its core belief in the infinite worth of every person and remains dedicated to assisting individuals and families fleeing war and persecution.
TMJ4 in Milwaukee spoke about how amid a halt in federal assistance, LSS stands out as a reliable partner. LSS released a statement emphasizing that, despite uncertainty, they are reviewing information from their partners and remain committed to providing necessary assistance to their active refugee caseload.
Both reports underscore LSS’ longstanding and unwavering commitment to refugee support, and how LSS’ experience, collaborative efforts, and dedication hope to provide stability and reassurance to refugees.