LSS-SW Division Services

CommunitY Development

Community Development engages individuals, families and congregations in the progression of social, economic, health and other asset development activities that build and lead to community empowerment.

Community Development seeks to empower individuals, families and congregations through the process of providing creative and enterprising ways to transform the communities where they are located.

Programs

After School Program for Instructional & Recreational Education (ASPIRE)
The ASPIRE program is offered free of charge to elementary and middle school students in Mesa and Tucson. Students receive help with homework and individualized tutoring.  Recreation, field trips, crafts and other activities are provided in a safe, nurturing environment to help children overcome social, language, and cultural barriers.  The program goal is to foster the love of learning and making good choices so children can achieve long-term academic and social success.

JobNet for Neighbors
Seeking employment can be a daunting process.  Our staff provides personalized assistance and counsel to unemployed or underemployed individuals.  Career assessment and aptitude testing, resume preparation, job leads, resource materials and networking are offered in Maricopa County and Tucson.  JobNet is linked to Pima County One-Stop and Maricopa County Workforce Connection database of jobs.  The JobNet staff provides client access and training on effective use of these resources.

Partners in Caring Food Pantries
“I am my brother’s keeper” is in the forefront of our work at the Partners in Caring Food Program in Maricopa County.  Donors, community agencies and volunteers collaborate to provide emergency food assistance to low-income individuals, families, and the elderly. Volunteers assemble and distribute food supplied by congregations and community food banks.  We also work with these caring partners to provide emergency rent and utilities assistance to those in crisis.

Resident Opportunities and Self-Sufficiency (ROSS)
The ROSS program serves elderly, disabled and / or mentally challenged residents in several public housing complexes in Tucson.  ROSS staff work with partnering agencies, volunteers and area congregations to develop programs and activities.  Services such as transportation and social activities reduce self-isolation, maximize independence, and promote the physical well being of each resident.  Health care partners offer health literacy education programs to promote exercise, nutrition, and good health choices.

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest will make reasonable accommodations to all persons with a disability so that they may participate in program services or activities.