FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LSS Launches Renovation of Shuttered Treatment Center

Wisconsin Non-profit held an event to “turn the lights back on” in Chippewa Falls

CHIPPEWA FALLS, WIS. Oct. 27, 2025 — Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (LSS) has officially begun renovations on the former Libertas Center in Chippewa Falls. The center closed abruptly in 2024, leaving a gap in treatment services in the Chippewa Valley. LSS plans to reopen the facility as a 50-bed substance use disorder treatment center by spring 2026.

At a kickoff event held Monday, over 100 guests, including staff, community leaders, and state officials, gathered to hear from LSS President & CEO Héctor Colón, Chief Advancement Officer Mara Dučkens, and State Senator Jesse James, who helped secure $1 million in state funding for the project.

“This is a proud moment for our organization,” said Colón. “Thanks to the generosity of this community and our dedicated team, we’re turning the lights back on—literally and figuratively.”

After remarks, attendees participated in a symbolic flashlight ceremony to turn the lights back on after being off for over a year.

“There are so many in need of recovery services,” said Dučkens. “We’re excited to be one of those providers to offer that to the community.”

The center will utilize evidence-based practices and is part of a $4.6 million fundraising campaign, with $600,000 remaining to reach the goal.

With renovations underway, LSS looks forward to welcoming individuals in need of recovery services when the center opens in spring 2026.

ABOUT LSS

LSS is made up of nearly 800 colleagues, the majority of whom are serving in the heart of communities where people with diverse abilities live, learn, and grow. Guided by a Servant-Leadership philosophy, we remove barriers and improve access to resources that address needs around housing and homelessness, adoption, foster care, refugee resettlement, and mental health and substance use disorder. Our expanded system of care includes safe, stable residences offering short and long-term solutions for individuals and families in need of recovery, skill development, and self-sufficiency. Driven by the belief in the infinite worth of every person, communities are stronger when everyone is included, and people are empowered to live independently and thrive.

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MEDIA CONTACT
George Kmetty, Public Relations Specialist
George.Kmetty@lsswis.org
262-693-6825