Our social workers are the living embodiment of our values. They lead with integrity. They treat every person as valued. And through steady, consistent presence, they create lasting value in the lives of children and families across Missouri.

No one chooses this work because it is easy. They choose it because something in them will not look away. From kitchen tables to courtrooms to quiet therapy offices, they show up in the moments that matter most, often when families are carrying more than they ever expected.

National Social Work Month gives us a chance to recognize the profession. It is also an invitation to hear from the people on the front lines every day.

We asked five members of our LFCS team a simple question: Why do you serve? Their answers remind us that social work is not just a career. It is a calling.

Voices From Our Team

“I became a social worker because I wanted to have a career where I could help and serve others in some way. I think that we all experience times in our lives when we need a little bit of help, and I love getting to be that support person for clients. Sometimes we just need someone in our corner who we know is rooting for us and standing by our side, and it is so fulfilling to me to get to do that every day!”

Erin Doughten, MSW, LMSW, Social Worker

“I chose Social Work as my avenue to pursue clinical therapy because the social work code of ethics outlines all of my personal beliefs and I appreciate how the discipline considers the client as a person, their environment, and how social systems impact them.”

Stephanie Kippenberger, LCSW, Behavioral Health Supervisor

“My life has been better since I became a social worker- as I am able to meet people where they are at in life, walk beside them, and offer support in a non-judgmental fashion, while helping them to discover their own strength from within.”

Ruth Downs, LCSW, Lead Therapist

“I became a social worker because I believe every person deserves to be seen, heard, and valued, especially in their hardest seasons. I was drawn to this field by a deep commitment to advocacy, healing, and creating systems that truly support children, families, and communities. Social work allows me to combine compassion with leadership to create meaningful, lasting changes in the lives of others.”

Anastasia Wexler, LCSW, Assistant Director of Behavioral Health

“Social work became a later-in-life dream of mine when I realized that supporting and empowering people was my biggest passion. I love loving on people, but what I have discovered is that being a social worker goes way beyond doing something I love. My work is making me a humble and compassionate human who gets the privilege of knowing everyday heroes doing the hard work of getting up each day and trying again..”

Kathleen Gamble, LMSW, Provisionally Licensed Therapist

What That Calling Looks Like in Real Life

The heart behind this work shows up in quiet, consistent ways. In 2025, our team served families in every corner of Missouri, walking alongside them during some of life’s most difficult seasons.

Our 2025 Impact:

• 4,600+ households served statewide.
• 65,000+ service engagements, including Counseling, Adoption and Foster Care Support, Pregnancy Support, and advocacy.
• 94% of clients achieved documented progress toward safety, stability, or emotional wellness goals.

These numbers are not just statistics. Explore our Annual Report to see the full picture of what your support makes possible. Whether through these core services or our specialized Parenting Education programs, our team turns compassion into measurable, lasting change.

One Mission. Five Regions. One Calling.

While these professionals serve in different communities, they are united by the same values. Social work is demanding work. It asks for patience, resilience, and the willingness to sit with uncertainty. But seeing a child feel safe, a parent regain confidence, or a family move toward stability makes every challenge worth it.

We are incredibly proud of the compassion, professionalism, and steady leadership our team brings to Missouri families every single day.

Help Us Continue the Mission

If these voices moved you this Social Work Month, consider making a gift to ensure we can reach even more families in 2026.

Make a Gift to LFCS

Join the Team

Are you looking for a mission-driven culture where your work is valued and your “why” matters? We are always looking for passionate people to join our statewide family.

Explore Our Current Career Opportunities

February is filled with candy hearts and sweet sentiments, but at LFCS, we deal with the kind of love that is a matter of survival. For a child who has lost everything, “love” isn’t about a card or a box of chocolates. It is the only thing standing between them and a total collapse of their world. When a family is in crisis, a healthy, stable relationship isn’t just a Valentine’s wish; it is the fundamental requirement for children and families to heal and move forward.

“The major benefits of having healthy, stable relationships,” states Heather Wall, LFCS parenting program director, “are improved mental health, physical health, and resilience.” Heather also notes that when clients develop a healthy attachment with their case manager, “they are more likely to take risks and grow.”

Measuring Wellness by Our Relationships

According to A PLOS medical study, having no friends or poor-quality relationships is worse for your health than smoking 20 cigarettes per day. Another study showed loneliness has been proven to increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and even early death.

While loneliness wears the body down, long-term loving relationships help people thrive. The Harvard Study of Adult Development, one of the longest-running studies on human health, has followed participants for more than eight decades. Its findings show positive relationships help people stay healthier, happier, and live longer. As Harvard Prof. Robert Waldinger explains, “Warm, connected relationships protect us from life’s challenges and from getting old.”

How do we know if our relationships are healthy or unhealthy? The answer lies in how both parties view what’s important.

Healthy relationships are rooted in mutual respect, trust, honest communication, shared power, and clear boundaries. Unhealthy relationships may be one-sided, lack honesty, or disregard boundaries, leaving people feeling unsafe, unheard, or taken for granted.

Founded with the importance of trust, respect, and honesty, LFCS has built its approach to care around healthy relationship values:

• We model respect, boundaries, and active listening to their clients.
• Provide trauma-informed approaches that help clients heal.
• Teach skills that help build healthy relationship habits.
• Guide clients as they grow their own healthy connections.

We recognize that healing takes time and consistency. By modeling healthy relationships, LFCS helps clients move toward stronger connections.

Teaching Clients to Trust Again

Trust isn’t something we can just ask for. It must be earned. Many clients come to us after years of being let down, making it hard to trust anyone. Herman Thomas, director of LFCS foster care, knows how critical this process is for long-term success.

“Many clients come to foster care with histories of trauma, loss, and involvement in systems that may make trust and respect difficult,” Herman said. “Case managers approach these relationships with patience, empathy, and consistency, knowing that trust is earned over time rather than expected immediately.”

In many cases, a client’s first meeting with LFCS staff may be the only example of safe, respectful relationships they’ve ever experienced. “By modeling healthy relationships, “Herman explained, “clients learn how to express needs, manage conflict, and engage with others constructively”.

Once trust is established, the healing process can finally begin. Clients begin to address emotional or complex challenges knowing they will not be abandoned. Rebuilding trust becomes a spark that motivates clients to pursue their goals, no matter how difficult their path forward.

Our values help build the foundation for health and happiness, but they cannot be shared without you. Your support allows us to provide ongoing, affordable services regardless of client’s ability to pay. You can spread the love this Valentine’s Day by donating to LFCS.

If you are looking for alternative ways to provide meaningful support to LFCS programs:

• Become a respite foster care family, especially for children in minority communities who need culturally responsive care.
• Share adoption information with women who may be considering adoption and need trustworthy guidance.
• Inform families in Boone County, Jefferson County, and Jackson County that LFCS is providing free counseling services for children ages 3 to 19.

This February, let love be measured not by dinners or roses, but by the relationships that support health and happiness.

The work we do at Lutheran Family and Children’s Services (LFCS) is rooted in purpose and sustained by the real progress of the families we serve. As we begin 2026, we know the challenges facing children and families are growing, especially as rising costs for essentials like food and housing leave many Missouri families just one unexpected bill away from a crisis. Meeting these needs requires not only compassion, but a straightforward approach to how we use our time and resources.

In 2026, we’re embracing three interconnected ideas: Values, Value, and Valued. It’s a fresh lens for how we think about our work and our mission. Rather than just a formal theme, this framework helps us focus on what matters most: staying grounded in our principles, maximizing community impact, and ensuring that every person connected to LFCS continues to feel respected and appreciated.

Our Foundation: Clear, Consistent VALUES

Our values are the fundamental principles that guide every decision, from how we support our team to how we serve our clients. For more than 150 years, LFCS has responded to the changing needs of Missouri families, guided by compassion, dignity, and adaptability.

On the ground, these values mean showing up for a family when things are at their most difficult. It means treating every person with the respect they deserve and giving families the tools they need to build their own path forward. When we do that, every interaction reflects the heart of our mission.

We saw these values showcased through a recent feature story on St. Louis Public Radio, where we discussed the urgent need for foster families and our commitment to fixing the system that supports Missouri’s children. These shared values anchor our decisions and ensure that our legacy of service continues to evolve. You can see how these principles shape our mission on our Who We Are page.

Our People: Making Sure Everyone Feels VALUED

The work of caring for others is demanding and stays with you long after the day is done.

In 2026, we’re putting even more focus on taking care of the people who take care of Missouri. Our focus was recently spotlighted in a news feature celebrating National Social Work Month, where LFCS was recognized for the vital role our team plays in stabilizing the St. Louis community.

In 2026, we are deepening our commitment to the people who care for Missouri. A recent news feature celebrating National Social Work Month recognized LFCS and others who play vital roles in the St. Louis community.

But we know that recognition is not enough. It must be backed by the kind of advocacy that creates lasting change. That’s why we have led efforts to address the “quiet crisis” facing Missouri nonprofits, pushing for the health and sustainability of social service agencies.

Just as we advocate for our team, we are equally committed to ensuring every client feels valued, meaning everyone who walks through our door is welcomed with dignity, listened to without judgment, and seen as a person, not a case number.

If you’re looking for a place where your work matters and you are valued, please explore our career opportunities.

Moving Forward Together

Strong Values lead to greater Value, which ensures every person connected to LFCS feels genuinely Valued. As we head into the new year, our three Vs provide a road map, helping us move forward with even more purpose.

Stay Connected with LFCS

• See what we do year-round: lfcsmo.org
• Support Our Mission: If you share our Values, consider making a gift today to help us deliver even more Value to Missouri families.
• Follow the journey: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

November is a time to celebrate the beauty of adoption, yet birth parents, often the most courageous part of the adoption story, are frequently overlooked.

At Lutheran Family and Children’s Services (LFCS), we are dedicating National Adoption Month to raising awareness of the free, confidential counseling and lifelong support we provide to honor and care for those who make the selfless decision to place their child for adoption.

The True Meaning of Courage and Love

Choosing adoption is one of the most profound and loving decisions a parent can make. It’s a choice made from love and the desire to give a child their best possible future.

“For birth parents, the adoption journey is an act of incredible courage and love,” said Melani Engel, Director of Adoption Services for LFCS. “It’s a decision rooted in deep care for their child’s future, and our mission is to support them before, during, and long after placement.” This perspective reframes the adoption experience. It turns a narrative of loss into one of empowerment and strength.

Modern Adoption: Embracing Openness and Partnership

Adoption has evolved. Today, most adoptions include ongoing relationships between birth and adoptive families, reflecting a more compassionate and connected approach.

According to the National Council for Adoption (NCFA), approximately 95 percent of domestic infant adoptions now include some degree of openness, allowing for continued communication and mutual respect between families.

LFCS’s commitment is strengthened through its partnership with BraveLove, a national nonprofit dedicated to equipping professionals and agencies with resources to better support birth parents.

“Every woman deserves access to the resources and support she needs to make a well-informed decision about her pregnancy and continued care after placement,” said Janelle Basham, Executive Director of BraveLove. “We’re proud to partner with Lutheran Family and Children’s Services in honoring the courage and love shown through adoption, this month and every month.”

Free, Lifelong Support from LFCS

Our commitment extends far beyond the moment of placement. LFCS provides comprehensive, nonjudgmental services for birth parents at every step of their journey:

• Free, confidential counseling: A safe, supportive space for women and men considering adoption to explore their options and emotions.
• Guidance and education: Clear, step-by-step guidance through the adoption process so parents feel informed and supported.
• Post-Placement counseling and support: Ongoing counseling and support groups promote healing and long-term emotional well-being.

To reach more families across Missouri, LFCS is expanding its video library and digital outreach, complementing BraveLove’s powerful stories like:

“We want every birth parent in Missouri to know that they are not alone,” said Engel. “There are compassionate professionals ready to listen, to help them heal and to support their future with dignity and care.”

Ready to Listen and Help.

For more information about Lutheran Family and Children’s Services, including adoption services and support for birth parents, visit https://lfcsmo.org/, call 866-326-LFCS, or email help@lfcs.org.

A parent’s journey is best taken with guidance, support, and community. While many people have a village to help them raise their family, couples like William and Elise came to LFCS with no help, no support, and uncertainty about what is best for their family. For these parents of five energetic boys, reaching out to LFCS was a big step of courage. Through working with their case manager, they have become a beautiful example of how LFCS’ Parenting Program provides not only evidence-based education, but also compassionate support and practical resources during times of need.

Learning Together Through Parenting Education

With the help of LFCS staff and a desire to make their lives better, William and Elise have embraced our parenting curriculum—including our Parenting Lessons book, a cornerstone of our evidence-based education model. These lessons have helped them build a more connected and nurturing home, providing structure and strategies to help navigate the challenges of managing five boys under 13.

Parenting education isn’t one-size-fits-all, and that’s why our program includes innovative tools like baby sign language. Learning this skill has empowered William and Elise to better communicate with their younger children before they’re able to speak. Their youngest son, Jonah, is already using signs to express his needs and emotions, helping reduce frustration and strengthen the bond between parent and child. Elise emphasized that this alternative learning approach has helped several of their children—a true testament to its impact.

Support During Life’s Hardships

Life threw the family an unexpected hardship when one of their sons developed RSV and serious breathing issues, requiring urgent medical care. At the same time, their vehicle broke down. In the middle of a medical crisis, they were suddenly without safe or reliable transportation.

But they weren’t alone.

Thanks to a generous community partner and a referral from LFCS, They were gifted with four brand-new tires for their used van. That support made their vehicle road-safe again—ensuring they could attend medical appointments, get their kids to school, and maintain a sense of stability during a stressful time.

A Family Moving Forward in Strength

William and Elise’s story is one of strength, resilience, and the power of community. They are raising their children in a loving, faith-centered environment—made stronger through their own dedication and the compassionate support of LFCS.

As Elise beautifully put it:

“Through the compassion and support of Lutheran Family and Children’s Services, we have found the strength to thrive and the faith to endure. Their guidance reminds us daily that we are never alone. ‘God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.’ (Psalm 46:1) With their help, our hearts are uplifted and our trust in God grows stronger each day.”

At LFCS, we are honored to walk alongside families like William and Elise’s—providing the tools, resources, and encouragement they need to build a hopeful future. Their journey is a reminder that when families are supported, children flourish.

If you or someone you know could benefit from our Parenting Program, we’re here to help. Because every parent deserves the support they need to thrive.

Across Missouri—and the country—nonprofits are facing an urgent and unprecedented reality. Operational costs are rising due to inflation, while government contracts and fixed grants have lost their purchasing power. Organizations like Lutheran Family and Children’s Services of Missouri are being asked to do more with less, at the exact moment when more people than ever are turning to us for help.

We launched the Meet The Moment campaign to rally support around this growing crisis, because the truth is: when nonprofits can’t meet the needs of their communities, real lives are impacted.

A Sector Under Pressure

We are not alone in this struggle. According to the 2025 State of the Nonprofit Sector Report:

• 65% of nonprofits report that staffing shortages are impeding their ability to deliver services.
• 77% have seen an increase in demand for their programs.
• Three out of four have been forced to reduce staff or cut programs.
• 87% report increased demand for mental health services, even while struggling to find the staff to provide them.
• Nearly half lack the funds needed to meet client demand.

food on the table, and access mental health care. Without adequate support, these challenges ripple into our broader society—increasing emergency room visits, straining school systems, and deepening systemic inequality.

How LFCS Has Responded

Despite these challenges, LFCS has not stood still. Over the past several years, we have made bold, intentional decisions to grow in response to community need:

• Expanded in-person capacity through office renovations, allowing us to see more clients face-to-face.
• Opened new offices in Kansas City, extending our reach to children and families in Northwest Missouri.
• Prioritized the hiring of counselors, case managers, and social workers to make sure clients are not left waiting for the help they desperately need.
• Expanded our parenting program to strengthen the family unit and reduce the risk of abuse and neglect.

These changes weren’t optional. They were necessary to meet the real needs of Missouri families. But they come at a cost—and that’s where we need your help.

Help Us Meet the Moment

The Meet The Moment campaign is a call to action. It’s a call to everyone who believes in the importance of mental health care, strong families, and children growing up in safe, loving homes.

At LFCS, we are committed to:

• Addressing Missouri’s mental health crisis
• Reducing child abuse and neglect
• Empowering clients to overcome heartbreak and trauma
• Supporting families navigating infertility
• Making an impact (view our 2024 annual report here to see how)

Guided by Jesus’ call to love one another, serve those in need, and be a light in the world, we are asking you to partner with us in this mission.

Our goal is to raise $150,000 by June 30. These funds will go directly to programs that are making a difference every single day.

When we fail to meet the moment, our communities suffer. But when we rise together—when we choose to act—real healing happens.

Join us. Give today. Help us Meet the Moment. Donate Today

Each year, thousands of children in Missouri experience abuse and neglect, facing challenges that can have lifelong consequences. At Lutheran Family and Children’s Services of Missouri, we recognize Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month in April as an opportunity to raise awareness and advocate for the safety, healing, and well-being of children and families in our communities.

Prevention Through Education, Therapy, and Support
Rather than solely focusing on intervention after abuse has occurred, LFCS prioritizes prevention by equipping parents with the tools they need to build safe and nurturing homes. Our Parenting Program helps families develop healthy parenting strategies, strengthen family bonds, and access valuable community resources.

Research highlights the effectiveness of parenting education in preventing abuse. A systematic review of intervention programs found a significant reduction in physical punishment and harsh discipline, as well as improvements in children’s social interactions, anxiety levels, and behavior. By investing in education and prevention, we can reduce child maltreatment and create a more supportive environment for families.

Mental health counseling is another essential part of breaking the cycle of trauma. Parents who can address underlying issues through therapy can create a more stable, loving home environment for their children. LFCS provides professional counseling services that help parents navigate challenges, heal from past experiences, and develop stronger emotional resilience, ultimately benefiting the entire family.

How You Can Help
Throughout April, LFCS encourages the community to join us in raising awareness and advocating for child abuse prevention. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Educate Yourself: Learn more about LFCS’s services and resources at lfcsmo.org.
• Know the Signs: Familiarize yourself with what to do if you suspect child abuse or neglect.
• Spread Awareness: Share information about Child Abuse Prevention Month on social media using #ChildAbusePreventionMonth and #LFCS.
• Show Your Support: Participate in Wear Blue Day on April 4 to raise awareness. Use #WearBlueDay to show solidarity.
• Volunteer Your Time: Support children and families in need through volunteering.
• Donate: Help us continue our mission of protecting children and strengthening families by making a contribution.

“Child Abuse Prevention Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about the prevalence of child maltreatment in Missouri and the importance of prevention,” said Heather Wall, Director of Parenting Services at LFCS. “Our team works to provide safety, healing, and resources to those navigating the devastating effects of abuse and neglect. By working together, we can build a community where every child is safe, supported, and loved.”

For more information about Lutheran Family and Children’s Services, visit lfcsmo.org, call 866-326-LFCS, or email help@lfcs.org.

Please check out the resources listed below to support Child Abuse & Neglect Prevention and learn more about reporting an incident:

• Community Support Resources:
  • Stewards of Children
  • MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)
  • State of Missouri Office of Child Advocate
  • National Child Traumatic Stress Network
  • Missouri Children’s Trauma Network
  • Kids Win Missouri
  • Monique Burr Foundation For Children

Social workers are the foundation of strong communities, dedicating their time and expertise to helping individuals and families overcome obstacles and build brighter futures. Their efforts often go unnoticed, yet they are essential in providing support, advocacy, and life-changing services. At Lutheran Family and Children’s Services of Missouri, we are proud to recognize and celebrate our social workers during National Social Worker Appreciation Month for their unwavering commitment to those we serve.

A Commitment to Transforming Lives

“Our social workers are the backbone of our organization and the heart of our mission,” said Mike Duggar, President and Chief Executive Officer of LFCS. “We are honored to celebrate their tremendous contributions during March and throughout the year.”

LFCS social workers play a vital role in providing critical services such as adoption, pregnancy support, parenting services, and mental health counseling. In 2024 alone, they have made a remarkable impact:

• Provided nearly 67,333 parenting service hours.
• Provided approximately 25,719 pregnancy service hours.
• Provided 3,347 adoption service hours to connect children with loving families.

These numbers reflect the dedication and hard work of LFCS social workers in ensuring families receive the support they need to thrive.

The Essential Role of Social Workers

According to the National Association of Social Workers, millions of families across the United States face challenges that impact their well-being, from economic hardship to mental health struggles. Social workers serve as advocates, helping individuals navigate complex systems and access the resources they need.

One such advocate is Latizia Williams, who has been with LFCS for 18 years and now serves as Assistant Director of Parenting Services.

“Every day in social work is different, and that’s what I love about it,” said Williams. “From helping a child find a loving adoptive home to supporting a parent struggling with addiction, we have the chance to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Knowing that my work contributes to stronger families and healthier communities is what motivates me.”

How You Can Celebrate Social Workers

Throughout National Social Worker Appreciation Month, LFCS encourages individuals, donors, partners, and the community to show their support. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Show your appreciation – Thank a social worker for their service or share your gratitude on social media using #CompassionPlusAction #SWMonth2025 #SocialWorkMonth.

• Support LFCS programs – Consider making a donation to sustain essential services for children and families across the state.

• Spread the word – Help raise awareness of the critical role social workers play in strengthening communities.

Social workers at LFCS go above and beyond every day to ensure families receive the support they need. This month, and throughout the year, let’s recognize and honor their invaluable contributions.

For more information about LFCS services, visit lfcsmo.org, call 866-326-LFCS, or email help@lfcs.org.

Customized Care Tailored to Each Family’s Needs:

At LFCS, we recognize that every family is unique, with its own set of challenges, strengths, and preferences. That’s why we take a personalized approach to care, ensuring that our services are tailored to meet the specific needs, learning styles, and locations of each family we serve. Whether it’s providing in-home consultations, virtual support sessions, or flexible scheduling options, we meet our clients where they are—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. By taking the time to understand their individual circumstances and preferences, we empower our clients to engage fully in the program and make meaningful progress towards their goals.

Building Strong, Lasting Relationships:

Central to our approach is the establishment of strong, lasting relationships with the clients we serve. We believe that trust and open communication are the cornerstones of effective support, and we work diligently to cultivate a relationship built on mutual respect and understanding. Our dedicated team of professionals invests the time and effort needed to build meaningful connections with our clients, creating a safe and supportive environment where they feel heard, valued, and empowered to make positive changes. This deep sense of trust and rapport lays the foundation for collaboration and enables our clients to embrace necessary changes with confidence and determination.

Family-Focused Approach:

At LFCS, we understand that the journey of parenthood is multifaceted, and each family’s path may look different. That’s why our parenting program is designed to be inclusive and family-focused, providing support and resources regardless of the client’s decision to parent or create an adoption plan. We believe in empowering our clients to make informed decisions that align with their values and aspirations, and we offer comprehensive resources and guidance to help them navigate this process with confidence. Whether it’s parenting education, adoption resources, or access to community resources, LFCS equips our clients with the tools and knowledge they need to build a strong foundation for their family’s future.

The parenting program at Lutheran Family and Children’s Services of Missouri is more than just a program—it’s a lifeline for our clients. To learn more, please visit lfcsmo.org/parenting-and-need-help

Customized Care Tailored to Each Family’s Needs:

At LFCS, we recognize that every family is unique, with its own set of challenges, strengths, and preferences. That’s why we take a personalized approach to care, ensuring that our services are tailored to meet the specific needs, learning styles, and locations of each family we serve. Whether it’s providing in-home consultations, virtual support sessions, or flexible scheduling options, we meet our clients where they are—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. By taking the time to understand their individual circumstances and preferences, we empower our clients to engage fully in the program and make meaningful progress towards their goals.

Building Strong, Lasting Relationships:

Central to our approach is the establishment of strong, lasting relationships with the clients we serve. We believe that trust and open communication are the cornerstones of effective support, and we work diligently to cultivate a relationship built on mutual respect and understanding. Our dedicated team of professionals invests the time and effort needed to build meaningful connections with our clients, creating a safe and supportive environment where they feel heard, valued, and empowered to make positive changes. This deep sense of trust and rapport lays the foundation for collaboration and enables our clients to embrace necessary changes with confidence and determination.

Family-Focused Approach:

At LFCS, we understand that the journey of parenthood is multifaceted, and each family’s path may look different. That’s why our parenting program is designed to be inclusive and family-focused, providing support and resources regardless of the client’s decision to parent or create an adoption plan. We believe in empowering our clients to make informed decisions that align with their values and aspirations, and we offer comprehensive resources and guidance to help them navigate this process with confidence. Whether it’s parenting education, adoption resources, or access to community resources, LFCS equips our clients with the tools and knowledge they need to build a strong foundation for their family’s future.

The parenting program at Lutheran Family and Children’s Services of Missouri is more than just a program—it’s a lifeline for our clients. To learn more, please visit lfcsmo.org/parenting-and-need-help

During Breanna’s pregnancy, her mother was diagnosed with dementia. Kaitlynn provided information about resources in the community to assist them through that difficult situation. When Breanna’s third daughter Freya was born, Kaitlynn continued providing support through home visits with Breanna and her children.

When Freya was 3 months old, Kaitlynn encouraged Breanna to pursue her high school diploma through the Goodwill Excel Center in Springfield, MO. Kaitlynn gave her the motivation that she needed to finish her diploma, and ensured that she had the resources she needed so she would be able to focus on her coursework.

“Kaitlynn is like a cheerleader, and she has supported me through so much.”

Congratulations on your graduation, Breanna, and much luck on your continued success!