Lutheran Services in America
and Joining Forces

Joining Forces is a national initiative, launched by First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden, designed to mobilize all sectors of society to provide military families with opportunities and support.

Lutheran health and human services organizations that are part of Lutheran Services in America (LSA) and congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod (LCMS) are in the forefront of supporting military members, veterans and their families.

Click on the links below to learn more about what some Lutheran organizations are doing:

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) – Articles, resources and ideas for congregations; Care for Returning Veterans workshops

The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod (LCMS) – Articles, resources and ideas for congregations

Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska – At Ease program (trauma treatment and therapeutic support)

Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota – CORE program (case management, outreach, referral and education

Lutheran Social Services of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan – behavioral health focus on military members, veterans and their families

Lutheran Community Services Northwest – referrals to high quality childcare; respite care for Navy families with children with special needs

Mount Olivet Homes – no cost vacations for wounded veterans and their families

Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network – wide range of rehabilitation services; Inclusive Recreation for Wounded Warriors

The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society – partnership with the University of South Dakota for health and nursing career support; Good Sam on Career Builder

Lutheran Social Services of Central Ohio – rehabilitation and emergency shelter and case managements for veterans

Lutheran Social Services of Northwest Ohio – offers counseling for military members and their families (read brochure)

Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries – mental health support specialty in veterans issues 

Compass Housing Alliance – broad range of supportive services and housing opportunities

Lutheran Services of Georgia – training clergy in issues of returning veterans

Lutheran Family Services of the Carolinas – transitional housing and supportive services for female veterans

Wheat Ridge Ministries – Refuge and Restore equipping congregations for ministries to service members, veterans and family members