Larry Gittins has been a steadfast donor to LSI since 2005. After hearing a presentation about LSI at his church, he wanted to give back and support the organization in some way. But due to health reasons, he was unable to volunteer as he would like. So, he chose to donate instead.

Over the years, Larry’s donations have made an impact on LSI’s wide range of services, from supporting the organization’s Bremwood and Beloit Residential Treatment Centers and statewide therapy services, to LSI’s services for Iowans with disabilities and in-home parenting education programming.

Larry makes automated monthly contributions to LSI, so he can feel confident knowing that no matter what, he can continue making a difference each month. That certainty is comforting to Larry and his wife, Mary.

Larry has lived with Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) for years. Earlier this summer, when he could feel his irregular heartbeat reaching a dangerous level, he knew he needed to get to the hospital. His AFib, complicated by an infection from an ailing hip, almost cost him his life. Larry spent a month and a day in the hospital before returning home.

“I give a monthly donation so that health scares like this won’t prevent me from giving what I can to charity,” Larry says. “To miss a month would be upsetting to Mary and me.”

Larry says he is a proud Christian and a Lutheran, and LSI’s mission to provide hope and healing to all Iowans is what motivates him to support the organization and wrap care around hundreds of Iowa families.

“I am proud to know that LSI serves families from all walks of life and people from every faith. LSI’s work is an extension of our church. They have the staff and the expertise to do the work we can’t. But we have to support LSI to allow them to do that work,” Larry says. “Donating is my way to make a difference in the lives of children and families. LSI is all about helping people and making the world a better place.”