Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI) celebrated its 45th Annual True Friend Celebration Sat., Oct. 3, 2026, at Epiphany Center for the Arts in Chicago. The theme of the event was “Lighting the Way.” Over 275 people attended the event, raising more than $300,000 for children’s programs at LSSI.
Since 1981, LSSI has presented the True Friend Award annually to individuals or organizations that have made significant contributions to the human community.
David and Julie Luck Jensen were honored with the True Friend Award for their service, leadership, and support of LSSI and other mission-driven organizations.
David traces his connection to LSSI back 50 years, when he was asked to lead a congregational fundraising campaign for LSSI at his lifelong church, Messiah Lutheran in Park Ridge. His affinity for and service to the organization grew as he served on LSSI’s executive leadership team and Board of Directors over several decades, as well as senior leadership positions at Lutheran General Hospital and Lurie Children’s Hospital.
“David and Julie are a formidable team, but they also have remarkable individual contributions,” said LSSI President and CEO Mark Stutrud. “David was a beloved leader and team builder, focused on service and serving. Julie balanced a teaching career with educational advocacy through the Illinois Association for Gifted Children. She also became an advocate and fundraiser for LSSI’s programs through her involvement with the Women’s Network.”
Julie is a force behind Messiah Lutheran’s Monday Meals program that provides food to community members in need. The couple also helped drive the conversion of Messiah’s former parsonage into Park Ridge Place, LSSI’s 10th group home for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
“How do you accept an award for service from an organization that epitomizes service? An organization comprised of thousands of people that have served throughout the state in so many ways for so many years,” David Jensen said in accepting the award. “Julie and I have been called to a wide range of service at LSSI. I’m sure each one of you here, too, have answered a call of service to LSSI and done so selflessly, just like the many staff members of LSSI.”
Two LSSI employees shared their experiences serving children and families. Child Welfare Resource Supervisor Victoria Hays, a 30-year employee, said she is heartened hearing from longtime foster parents about their enduring relationships with children formerly in their care. “They can tell you each child’s name, their age, and how they’re doing now,” Hays said. “They love those children forever.”
“Permanency for children is not only about returning children home. It is about creating lasting safety, healing, and stability,” said Program Director Anne Reed. “Our time, effort, energy, and assistance is always focused on ensuring that children are safe and helping families find a way back together.”
Stutrud wrapped up the evening with thanks to the attendees, explaining that their support is part of LSSI’s GenCare approach to fulfilling its mission. “Your generosity enables us to light the way,” he said. “You help us bring dignity, health and well-being, and the promise of meeting one’s full potential to the people we serve.”
(caption) David and Julie Luck Jensen were honored for their service, leadership, and support of LSSI and other nonprofits.
