In The Ring Season 3 Episode 10: “Beyond Rhetoric: The Truth about Immigration and Refugees”
WATCH NOW: Héctor and Krish get “In the Ring”
Héctor talks with Global Refuge President & CEO Krish O’Mara Vignarajah. In a hot political climate, the two CEOs dispel rumors surrounding immigration and refugees.
Krish O’Mara Vignarajah, President and CEO of Global Refuge, has dedicated her life to championing the rights of vulnerable communities. As leader of the largest faith-based national nonprofit dedicated to serving children, refugees and other immigrants, Krish works every day to help newcomers find safety, support, and a share in the American dream – the same dream her family pursued decades ago when they fled Sri Lanka with her as a baby.
Krish’s immigrant experience sparked a lifelong commitment to public service.
From her role as Policy Director for First Lady Michelle Obama to her strategic work as Senior Advisor at the State Department on foreign policy to her tireless work in refugee resettlement at Global Refuge, Krish leads with the heart of an ally, the fight of an advocate, and the insight of someone who knows firsthand the difference a warm welcome can make.
Krish speaking at the I95 Women of Influence Conference
She has been recognized as one of The Daily Record’s “Top 100 Women” and “Most Admired CEOs,” and The Hill’s Changemakers.
LSS among contributors to new Medicaid Expansion Study
The Wisconsin Policy Forum released a new study supported by Lutheran Social Services of WI and Upper MI along with American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Community Care Services, Jewish Family Services, and the Wisconsin Medical Society.
The report finds that expanding Medicaid in Wisconsin would add fewer enrollees compared to other non-expansion states but deliver significant fiscal benefits. While about half of the targeted group is already enrolled in Medicaid, the state could save $1.5 billion over the next two years.
These savings could be used for healthcare improvements, other priorities, or tax reductions. However, expansion would shift some residents from Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans to Medicaid, potentially reducing federal subsidies and reimbursement rates for providers.
Wisconsin’s partial Medicaid expansion in 2014 covered low-income residents but didn’t fully adopt ACA incentives. Full expansion could ass 72,000 to 92,900 enrollees, mainly benefiting rural areas. Providers could see lower reimbursement, but this impact could be mitigated if the state increased Medicaid rates using savings.
The report explores various policy options, including maintain the status quo, full Medicaid expansion, or adopting a non-traditional approach like other states. Moving forward would likely require bipartisan cooperation.
Click here to read “The Picture of Health? Considering Medicaid Expansion in Wisconsin.
LSS Podcast puts Senate Candidates In the Ring on Healthcare
For Immediate Release
LSS Podcast puts Senate Candidates In the Ring on Healthcare
WEST ALLIS, Wis., Sep. 24, 2024 – In the Ring with Héctor Colon podcast is excited to announce a special “On the Issues” double-episode featuring Wisconsin’s candidates for U.S. Senate. The podcast, a creation of Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (LSS), is known for its content and high-profile guests. This month, Democratic incumbent Senator Tammy Baldwin and Republican challenger Eric Hovde talk about their Health and Human Services platforms.
LSS President & CEO and podcast host, Héctor Colón asked each candidate the same questions in the same order on topics including Wisconsin’s fentanyl crisis, expanding early intervention & prevention for children and families, Affordable Healthcare and Medicaid reimbursement, and healthcare partnerships. He also asked for their ideas on how to bridge our nation’s two-party political divide.
Episode Highlights:
- Senator Tammy Baldwin – The incumbent Senator shares her commitment to strengthening access to affordable healthcare, including Medicaid expansion. The Senator cites that nearly half of all births are covered by Medicaid and she has worked to ensure that mother and child continue to receive Medicaid coverage for up to 1 year after birth. She highlights her advocacy for bolstering federal funding for community health partnerships and expanding access to addiction recovery programs.
- Eric Hovde – The challenger outlines his vision for transforming healthcare by reducing bureaucratic red tape, emphasizing private sector innovation, and a “back to competition” market approach to lower costs. The Madison Businessman advocates for continued protection for people with preexisting conditions, citing his own Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis, while also emphasizing new ideas around the country’s Fentanyl crisis.
Héctor Colón, a former boxer turned nonprofit leader, brings his unique perspective, engaging both candidates in meaningful discussions about the future of mental health services, addiction recovery, support for vulnerable populations, and beyond.
“We are thrilled to provide a platform where voters can hear directly from the candidates on vital issues,” said Colón. “Our goal at LSS is to support the health and well-being of the communities we serve, and these conversations will ensure voters are informed about key issues that directly impact Wisconsin and the nation.”
Both episodes are available now on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@intheringwithhectorcolon1073/videos
And can be streamed on all major podcast platforms.
For more information on In the Ring with Héctor Colón and to listen to the episodes, visit:
ABOUT LSS
Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (LSS) is made up of nearly 800 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
262-693-6825
Another LSS Employee Honored as Nonprofit Star of the Month
She was nominated by her colleague, Sandra Gadzichowski, also an LSS support coordinator, who praised Lanser’s positive attitude and dedication to helping others, even while managing her own tasks. Gadzichowski highlighted Lanser’s commitment to nonprofit work, noting her efforts to maintain the work environment and support her colleagues. This recognition follows LSS program supervisor Alyssa D’Angelo being named Star of the Month in May.
LSS model in the spotlight of a new case study
The article by Lutheran Services in America features LSS’ School-Centered Mental Health Initiative front-and-center. LSS partnered with Milwaukee schools to serve 189 children, and their families, over the course of two years.
“The LSS approach to creating and sustaining this whole family SDOH model is an exemplar of excellence and innovation in attending to sustainability of social services,” the article writes.
“Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan’s School-Centered Mental Health Initiative is an exemplar of the power of attending to these factors to drive lasting improvements in behavioral health and access to SDOH services and supports for Milwaukee children, youth and families.”
You can read the full article here to find out what makes LSS’ School-Centered Mental Health Initiative unique. Plus, how LSS has ensured the program’s sustainability.
LSS to be featured on “Viewpoint with Dennis Quad”
LSS to be featured on “Viewpoint with Dennis Quad”
Leading non-profit, Lutheran Social Services of WI and Upper MI (LSS), will be featured on the acclaimed public television program “Viewpoint with Dennis Quaid.” Their corporate documentary is scheduled to air nationally this fall – and throughout 2025 – on national PBS TV stations. The feature will highlight LSS impact on mental health for Wisconsin families.
LSS has been serving communities for over 140 years, empowering people to address life’s toughest challenges around housing, adoption and foster care, disabilities, refugee resettlement, mental health, and substance use disorder. Inspired by the belief in the infinite worth of every person, LSS envisions healthy communities filled with people using their God-given gifts to serve.
The feature on “Viewpoint” will delve into the story of Yolanda. Her daughter Antonia “Toni” was recommended to the LSS School-Centered Mental Health program after her older sister died. Yolanda was surprised to find that the program was also there for her and Toni’s sisters. The LSS family coach and therapist worked with Yolanda on supporting Toni and her whole family through their grief, and they helped her to secure necessary basic needs resources for the family when needed. Viewers will get an in-depth look at Yolanda and Toni’s story as well as the dedicated team of LSS colleagues who are in homes, schools and community places where families are, working tirelessly to address barriers to health and well-being.
LSS President & CEO Héctor Colón expressed his excitement about the upcoming feature. “We are honored to be recognized by ‘Viewpoint with Dennis Quad.’ This is a fantastic opportunity to share LSS’ mission and the incredible work carried out by more than 800 colleagues with passion, expertise, and Servant-Led hearts. We also are humbled to share the incredible resilience and strength of the people we serve.”
Viewpoint Cinematographer, Jacob Lopez, says, “Viewpoint with Dennis Quaid” is known for its in-depth exploration of social issues and features on organizations making a significant impact in their communities. The series, hosted by Golden Globe and Emmy nominated actor Dennis Quaid, provides a platform for non-profits, innovators, and thought leaders to share their stories. “I think LSS is an amazing organization. Viewpoint wanted to highlight…their contributions to the Greater Milwaukee and Wisconsin area.”
The episode featuring Lutheran Social Services is expected to inspire viewers and encourage support for the organization’s ongoing efforts. LSS hopes that this exposure will lead to increased awareness, community-based advocacy, and contributions, allowing them to expand their reach and continue their vital work.
LSS Program Supervisor Wins Nonprofit Star Award for May
D’Angelo was recognized for her significant contributions, including setting up and training a new team of children’s long-term support staff in Milwaukee County, while also working with management in Waukesha and Ozaukee Counties. Her efforts have led to the hiring of five new employees and reduced the number of children on the Ozaukee County Children’s Long Term Support waitlist by over 100. D’Angelo’s dedication to supporting families and children with disabilities, along with her collaborative work with various agencies, was highlighted as key to her recognition.
LSS awarded $75,000 grant to help meet transportation needs of older adults
LSS awarded $75,000 grant to help meet transportation needs of older adults
WEST ALLIS, Wis., Mar. 13, 2024 – Lutheran Social Services of WI and Upper MI (LSS) is proud to announce it has been awarded the Elderly Endowment Grant from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) Lutheran Services for the Elderly. $75,000 over a span of three years will go to expand and enhance LSS’ volunteer driver program “Make the Ride Happen” as well as its Cycling Without Age program in Waupaca, Outagamie, Winnebago, and Calumet counties.
These projects help to meet the mobility needs of the low-income, older adult population and adults with disabilities, the majority of whom live alone or lack reliable transportation. Each year, the LSS Make the Ride Happen call center receives nearly 3,900 calls from individuals requesting information and assistance with their transportation needs. Volunteer drivers accompany the elderly to medical appointments, grocery shopping, or other errands as needed.
“Transportation is one of the key Social Determinants of Health the older population struggles with,” said Héctor Colon, President and CEO of Lutheran Social Services. “By collaborating with transportation stakeholders, human service providers, and private & public transportation providers, LSS is aligning its efforts to improve the health and well-being of the elderly by addressing this key need.”
Elderly populations are often at risk of social isolation, which can negatively affect physical and mental health and well-being. Through these programs LSS seeks to expand dependable and safe ride options. With this increase, LSS hopes these individuals will be able to live independently, engage with others, and remain connected to their communities.
“Our synod includes many rural communities, where lack of transportation can lead to isolation and other challenges, especially for people who are elderly and people with disabilities,” said the Rev. Anne Edison-Albright, Bishop of the East Central Synod of Wisconsin and LSS Board Member. “LSS provides a lifeline and an opportunity for connection to those most in need, and that connectedness is so important to us as people of faith.”
For more information on Make the Ride Happen call (920) 225-1719 or go to lsswis.org/service/disabilities/make-the-ride-happen
ABOUT LSS
Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (LSS) is made up of nearly 800 Servant-Leaders including licensed therapists, professional social workers and counselors, and certified peer specialists located throughout our two-state reach. Every year, our colleagues strengthen families, inspire recovery, and empower independence & belonging for nearly 30,000 individuals and families at every stage of life. Driven by the belief in the infinite worth of every person, LSS provides affordable housing & homelessness services; public adoption & foster care; long-term care & disability services; refugee resettlement; residential treatment for substance use disorder & mental illness; and additional supportive community-based services.
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LSS receives $100,000 Vaping Prevention and Treatment grant from Wisconsin DHS
For Immediate Release
LSS receives $100,000 Vaping Prevention and Treatment grant from Wisconsin DHS
Funding will go to programs in four school districts throughout the state of Wisconsin
WEST ALLIS, Wis., Feb. 16, 2024 – Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (LSS) was awarded a $105,354 grant from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) to reduce and prevent vaping among adolescents, an activity that has seen a steep rise in recent years.
LSS will use the funds over two years to endow programs in three school districts in western Wisconsin and one in Milwaukee County. The project will include three primary programs: small group intervention, parent intervention, and student-led advocacy groups.
With small group intervention, schools will refer students that have struggled with vaping use. LSS staff will lead a discussion using evidence-based education in an environment that empowers change instead of punishing mistakes.
Additionally, LSS will empower parents by providing access to an online support platform. This will give parents resources and education for working with their child to either prevent or stop substance abuse.
Finally, students will have the opportunity to create their own student-led events and programs that promote healthy behavior. LSS and school staff will support youth in taking leadership roles, and the grant will provide funding for student-led events. Héctor Colón, LSS President & CEO, believes empowering youth is the key to lasting change:
“LSS strives to support the youth and families in our communities,” said Colón. “This project allows us to reach youth and empower them to make choices that will set them up for success.”
Colón says the grant is a good start, but stresses more must be done to stem the tide of youth vaping:
“Addressing this issue is going to take effort from a variety of places, schools, parents, and community organizations. LSS tries to bring together as many as possible, but the issue of ease of access still needs addressing.”
Funding for the grant comes from a $14.7 million settlement between Wisconsin and JUUL Labs, a leading manufacturer of vaping devices. The settlement addresses harm caused by JUUL’s predatory marketing practices.
ABOUT LSS
Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (LSS) is made up of nearly 800 Servant-Leaders including licensed therapists, professional social workers and counselors, and certified peer specialists located throughout our two-state reach. Every year, our colleagues strengthen families, inspire recovery, and empower independence & belonging for nearly 30,000 individuals and families at every stage of life. Driven by the belief in the infinite worth of every person, LSS provides affordable housing & homelessness services; public adoption & foster care; long-term care & disability services; refugee resettlement; residential treatment for substance use disorder & mental illness; and additional supportive community-based services.
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MEDIA CONTACT
George Kmetty, Public Relations Specialist
George.Kmetty@lsswis.org
262-693-6825
LSS awarded $400,000 Community Impact Grant by the Wisconsin Partnership Program
For Immediate Release
LSS awarded $400,000 Community Impact Grant by the Wisconsin Partnership Program
The non-profit will share part of the grant with its academic partner UWM.
WEST ALLIS, Wis., Jan. 10, 2024 – Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (LSS) is excited to announce it has been awarded a Community Impact Grant by the Wisconsin Partnership Program (WPP) at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. The $482,228 grant is for the initiative “Improving Social Determinants of Health Factors Through Utilization of a Family Coach.”
Social Determinants of Health, as defined by U.S department of Health and Human Services, are conditions in the environments where people are born, live, learn, work, play, worship, and age that affect a wide range of health, functioning and quality-of-life outcomes and risks. They are things like income, educations, job security, transportation, childhood development, food security, health services, and housing.
Through this project, LSS, and its academic partner the Institute for Child and Family Well-Being, University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee, will seek to improve the mental health crisis facing youth in historically impoverished communities in Milwaukee County. LSS will implement family coaching services and community engagement to address these social stressors and structural barriers that contribute to poor health and wellness outcomes.
LSS introduced the family coach in 2018 as part of its School Centered Mental Health program. Family coaches offer direct service to families, including mental health education, skill development, and assistance in navigating social systems to access resources like employment, housing, and food. However, LSS President & CEO Héctor Colón says they do so much more:
“Family coaches are walking, riding the bus, and going grocery shopping with families — to better understand and address their issues like homelessness, job loss, and food insecurity. Family coaches even help with things like enrollment paperwork and phone calls. With these burdens eased, families can focus on other aspects related to wellness, and mental health.”
LSS colleagues know the impact communities have on improving mental health. “This community impact grant allows LSS to bring together members of the community to address the struggles in meeting everyday needs,” said Amanda Krzykowski, LSS Director of Performance and Quality Improvement, “We see the community as the experts, the problem solvers. We want to establish meaningful partnerships that will guide us to help advance health equity in Milwaukee.” Kathy Markeland, Executive Director at the Wisconsin Association of Family and Children’s Agencies (WAFCA) acknowledged LSS’s commitment to innovation and advocacy in the social services sector.
“As a founding member of our association, LSS has long been a force for innovation and a strong voice for the human services sector and the people we serve,” said Markeland “the Family Coach model holds promise for broadening the pathways to meaningful careers in community health – valuable work that is not currently funded through our traditional school, health care and public health systems.”
Over the past three years, LSS has served 240 families in Milwaukee, with 200 of them receiving direct support from one or more of the organization’s programs. Colón expressed the organization’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by families dealing with mental health issues.
With the Community Impact grant, Lutheran Social Services says it is one step closer to its vision of creating healthy communities filled with people using their God-given gifts to serve. LSS extends its gratitude to the WPP and looks to utilize the grant to make a lasting positive impact on the lives and communities it serves.
ABOUT LSS
Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (LSS) is made up of nearly 800 Servant-Leaders including licensed therapists, professional social workers and counselors, and certified peer specialists located throughout our two-state reach. Every year, our colleagues strengthen families, inspire recovery, and empower independence & belonging for nearly 30,000 individuals and families at every stage of life. Driven by the belief in the infinite worth of every person, LSS provides affordable housing & homelessness services; public adoption & foster care; long-term care & disability services; refugee resettlement; residential treatment for substance use disorder & mental illness; and additional supportive community-based services.
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MEDIA CONTACT
George Kmetty, Public Relations Specialist
George.Kmetty@lsswis.org
262-693-6825