Lutheran Social Services of Michigan...Action Thrift Store Report

Lutheran Social Services of Michigan
Action Thrift Store
Saginaw, Michigan

By Felicia McCaw
Saginaw Valley State University
Introduction to Social Welfare and Social Work Social Work 215

Lutheran Social Services of Michigan
Action Thrift Store
Felicia McCaw
Page 1

The reason why I chose to do my volunteer service hours at this non-profit organization which is a part of Lutheran Social Services of Michigan is because it helps people all over the State of Michigan and I have been a patron of this establishment for over ten years. It is one of my favorite shopping spots where I find some of my best bargains. Further, I am an avid thrift store junkie who loves finding treasures in any place wherever I can. This little treasure spot is a big help to those who do not have a lot of money and are trying to stretch the little funds they have and when I went there to volunteer I was given a tour and was required to sign papers to be allowed to volunteer. I believe I started the next day and did six 0hours there sorting, organizing and putting clothing out to be displayed and unfortunately I missed a few days and my volunteer service agreement was cancelled due to a policy they have of not being allowed to continue if you miss three days.

Luther Social Services of Michigan is a great organization and I just want to relay some of the services that are provided and their mission and vision statement. The goal for this establishment is to serve people as an expression of the love of Christ and meet the needs of people and uphold human dignity and advocate equality and justice. There are many services provided, e.g., in-home services, skilled nursing for the elderly, retirement and assisted living programs, HUD-subsidized apartments and continuing care community facilities. In-Home services help people achieve or maintain personal independence to people of ages with physical limitations, developmental disabilities or mental illness who may need temporary or ongoing help in their place of residence. Refugee services are provided to people who have been forced to leave their country of residence because of war or political turmoil and help these people adjust to their new country by providing great services as to a place of residence, assisting in enrolling children in school and their integration into this community and state. Further, they provide training, job placement, translation services and preventive health services to incoming new citizens.

A wonderful social ministry is provided for members of the Lutheran Church as well as non-Lutherans and this church has been meeting people’s need since the early 1900s when a Lutheran “ a city

Underground Railroad
Felicia McCaw
Page 2

missionary” arrived in Detroit to provide services to the poor. From the very being beginning the church members have reached out to individuals regardless of their religion, race, ethnicity or national origin.
As I proceed further in being exposed to all of these non-profit organizations it gives me a feeling of gratitude that people are still reaching out to those in need and are providing charity, support in these difficult times and understanding their need for sympathy, empathy and support. These communities of service meet the needs of people in this community and help them retain their human dignity and ensure that equality and justice is provided.
Events of support programs and press releases are relayed on the website, how to make financial contributions, volunteer opportunities and Links for Help!

I learned a tremendous amount from the website and enjoyed my brief stint at the Action Thrift.

Bibliography

Lutheran Social Services of Michigan
http://www.lssm.org/LSSM