Reflecting on their involvement with Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI) and other service organizations, David and Julie Luck Jensen said their participation simply enables them to live their faith. The Jensens will be honored with the “True Friend” Award by LSSI at its 45th Annual True Friend Celebration on Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026.
That participation was sparked 50 years ago when David was asked to help lead a congregational fundraising effort for LSSI. He recalled, “When I first heard LSSI described I thought, ‘I’m sure I’ll be more involved in that someday.’ It seemed quite natural, as LSSI’s services are clearly responding to the Gospel.”
He couldn’t have anticipated how extensive that would be. David was later asked to serve in a succession of leadership roles on its Board of Directors and its management team spanning more than 25 years. Julie shares his commitment to the work of LSSI. “My concept of faith focuses on how one serves, and LSSI offers me many opportunities to do so.” Julie said.
Julie and David both chose paths of service in their professional lives, as well. David as a finance executive with some of Chicago’s leading nonprofit health care providers; Julie as an educator with a special dedication to addressing the needs of underserved students. Her volunteer work includes roles in state and local education associations.
The Jensens have served their community and their congregation, Messiah Lutheran, Park Ridge. The congregation collaborated with LSSI to transform Messiah’s parsonage into LSSI’s 10th group home for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, a project led by the church’s late pastor, Rev. Lynne Morrow, and current pastor, Rev. Aneel Trivedi.
The Jensens’ sons have also picked up the torch. Tryg worked at LSSI, and Tait is a member of LSSI’s Associate Board.
David sums up the family’s view of LSSI, “LSSI’s mission is a clear response to the Gospel. It’s been impossible not to be engaged with what they do.”
