2018 was a year full of growth for LSI. We developed new and innovative ways to wrap holistic, comprehensive care around our clients, received many exciting grants, spent fun times together as a team, and developed our volunteer program. We’re grateful for the year behind us, and eager for what’s ahead. And as always, we’re grateful for generous donors and partners like you who make it all possible.

Here are just a few of our highlights from 2018.

Host Homes

In 2017, we launched Host Homes, an innovative program to support people with disabilities. Through Host Homes, adults with disabilities move from 24-hour supported community living and into a private family home, where they receive one-on-one care from a specifically-selected mentor instead of a staff member. 2018 was a significant year of growth for the program, and we were able to successfully open and maintain nine Host Homes! In 2019, we expect to see the program grow even more.

Service Enterprise Certification

Last year, LSI was certified as a Service Enterprise, an organization specially trained to leverage volunteers. LSI is proud to join 30 other certified organizations across Iowa. Less than 15 percent of organizations nationwide are characterized as Service Enterprises, and this distinction will allow us to grow and expand the way we recruit and utilize volunteers to support our many services.

Strengthening Families

LSI utilized the Strengthening Families program in 2018 to support 21 families participating in our Family Safety, Risk, and Permanency Services and Behavioral Health Intervention Services. The 14-week program engages parents who are struggling with substance use disorders and their children by providing the education and resources they need to improve communication, positive parenting, and building happy, healthy homes.