Disability Services
Lutheran Social Services (LSS) is one of the largest social service organizations in New England. We combine personalized, compassionate care with extremely high standards of clinical sophistication and operational excellence to deliver a broad variety of services to children, youth and families; persons with developmental disabilities, mental illness and Deafness; the economically disadvantaged; refugees and older adults. In keeping with our mission, we serve and care for people in need, regardless of religious affiliation.
LSS Disability Services comprise a wide variety of programs that enable persons who are economically disadvantaged, have disabilities, chronic illness, mental illness, Deafness and other challenges to become and remain successful contributors to the communities in which they live and work. Whether it's safe, reliable, low-cost transportation through LSS Good News Garage, or long term recovery from disaster, our innovative services deliver the right level of support to meet the needs of individuals and communities. We frequently enlist the partnership of congregations to carry out our mission.
LSS serves adults with disabilities, mental illness and Deafness in Maine, Massachusetts and New Hampshire, in both residential and community based programs.
THE LSS PHILOSOPHY FOR SERVING PERSONS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
In response to the needs of people with disabilities, Lutheran Social Services is committed to support opportunities for self-determined personal growth and achievement. This commitment is based on our conviction that all people:
- are differently able and are an asset to their community;
- have a right to be treated with respect and dignity as equal members of the community;
- merit the opportunity to participate in all areas of family and community life.
- have the potential for growth and development;
- are entitled to opportunities to form personal relationships of their own choice;
- deserve to live, work and play in environments which promote personal well-being.
| “If we are to achieve a richer culture… we must weave one in which each diverse human gift will find a fitting place.” Margaret Meade |
Self- Determination
We enable and encourage people with disabilities to make decisions. When people are equipped with the skills to make good decisions, they are better able to advocate on their own behalf and lead more independent lives. It is also important to involve supportive family members and/or guardians in decision-making, so that together we can create services, which respect the values and help to fulfill the dreams of all.
Building Relationships
We help, support and promote relationship building in the community and workplace. Every person needs friendship and a sense of belonging. By combining our professional services with the natural supports available from co-workers, friends and neighbors, we assist each person to develop the unique networks, which are necessary for full community involvement. Some people who experience disabilities have to struggle to become full participants in society. We strive with each person to break down these barriers of exclusion. It has been our experience that people with disabilities don’t want a guarantee of a perfect life, only a typical one.
Individualized Approach
We design and implement a unique plan of service for – and with – each individual. By focusing on each person’s capabilities, strengths and talents, we support the individual’s quest for competence, self-confidence and independence, while insuring safety.
We work with persons with disabilities, their families and professionals in many fields to design and implement an individualized and flexible approach to services, which meets the goals of all.
By employing a “whole life” approach, we are able to assist individuals as they build relationships, develop satisfying work, pursue leisure activities and enjoy a rewarding home life.
