We stabilize people during crisis and transition, build a foundation where people can thrive, and preserve dignity and respect for the most vulnerable. Dignity: We demonstrate through our actions that all people have value and are worthy of respect. Diversity: We recognize and accept the differences among people, fostering an environment inclusive of all. Social Justice: We model and promote a culture of open-mindedness, compassion, and inclusiveness, promoting fairness, justice, and equal opportunities for all.
Follow us
Services
Since 1970, Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest has responded to Arizona's changing needs by compassionately offering quality services and resources that contribute to a stronger and healthier Arizona for all people. Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest traces its history to the 1960s when Lutheran congregations gathered to consider a coordinated response to meet the needs of their most vulnerable neighbors in ways that changed lives. As an expression of God's love for all, these Phoenix based churches began addressing the immediate basic needs for low income families, in 1970.
Karen Bamford, MM, joined the Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest team in 2008. As the Chief Program Officer, Karen provides the leadership, management, and vision for the operations of multiple site programs and services in Arizona. An Arizona native, Karen holds a B.A. in Communication from the University of Arizona and Master of Management from the University of Phoenix.
Annually Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest recognizes a congregation, or partnering congregations, in the Grand Canyon Synod of the ELCA, LCMS English District, and Pacific Southwest District of the LCMS as recipients of the Lutheran Social Services Servant of Christ Award. The congregations are leaders in social ministry and social justice in their community, have a connection to Lutheran Social Services programs in their area, and faithfully provide financial support for the service ministry of Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest.
Reviews (10)
Sami Sam
Apr 19, 2022
C. Holio
Nov 21, 2021
This organization is holding onto the care's act money. They're not dispersing it. They're delaying any actions by having access to a voicemail system only. On August 30th I left a voicemail. I did not get contacted until October 14th with a voicemail stating that since I did not Answer the phone I would have to start the whole process over again and leave another message on the voicemail Box. The voicemail Box has been full since then. Total lack of compassion caring understanding and professionalism in administering this federal program.
Samir Morina
Oct 28, 2021
Ria Morina
Oct 07, 2021
Happy FamPhx
Feb 11, 2021
We were super excited to start our foster care process but the licensing specialist we spoke to was so rude we decided to go elsewhere. Every time we spoke to her we felt like we were being judged and yelled at. She made negative remarks about our family, our other kids, the program and her supervisor at Lutheran and she was not at all very well informed or culturally aware. We've decided to go with another agency and we are much happier.
Hannah Miller
May 30, 2020
Zahra Haydari
Dec 03, 2019
I would give a zero if I could as well. My experiene was terrible. There were weeks without any update information. I had to contact the embassy directly numerous times and was told important information had been already been sent though I never received it. When I would call, I was hung up on or they never picked up the phone. Very unprofessional. I will not use their service again.
Tyler Struckman
May 29, 2019
Stephanie Petrilli
Nov 16, 2018
Aracely Merkle
Feb 10, 2018
I worked here less than a month I was a parent aide and they have been telling me they will pay me for my mileage reimbursement (Amber medina) but still haven't it's only 60$ but I worked for that. I DON'T RECOMMEND anyone this place I told her I wanted to put my 2 weeks in and she said it was best if I didn't because it was a waste of time due to someone else would take over my job which was not appropiate. Id rate this place a zero if I could. You use your vehicle alot so not worth it and you drive super far out
