About Us

Lutheran Social Services of Alaska logo. Red cross with white text.

For over five decades, Lutheran Social Services of Alaska has been a beacon of hope in communities across the Last Frontier. We understand that Alaska's unique challenges require innovative, compassionate solutions that honor both individual needs and community strength. Through our comprehensive programs and unwavering commitment to service, we walk alongside Alaskans during their most difficult moments and celebrate with them as they build brighter futures. Our work is rooted in the belief that every person deserves the opportunity to thrive, and we are honored to be trusted partners in that journey.

Red hands forming a cross, symbolizing support or unity.

Provide hope, healing, and opportunity to all Alaskans through comprehensive social services delivered with dignity, respect, and love.

Red hands forming a cross, symbolizing support or unity.

Our Vision

A thriving Alaska where every person has the opportunity to reach their full potential with dignity, hope, and community support

LSSA Core Values

Hand holding a heart and smiling face.

Compassion

We approach every individual with empathy, understanding, and genuine care for their unique circumstances

A black shooting star with curved trail.

Hope

We believe in the potential for positive change and work to instill confidence and optimism in those we serve.

Person sitting with a book and coffee inside a house outline.

Dignity

We honor the inherent worth of every person and provide services that respect individual autonomy and self-determination.

Three people connected in a group.

Community

We strengthen the fabric of Alaska through collaborative partnerships - fostering connections that support lasting change.

Graph showing upward trend with arrow.

Transformation

We are committed to creating meaningful, sustainable change that empowers individuals and families to thrive.

Gear icon with two trees inside.

Stewardship

We responsibly manage our resources and relationships to maximize positive impact for the communities we serve.

Our Mission In Action

People distributing food from a table in a parking lot, near parked cars and a building.

Hope in Crisis

We provide immediate assistance when Alaskans face overwhelming circumstances, offering pathways from crisis to stability.

Community Partnership

With collaboration with organizations, volunteers, and donors, LSSA creates sustainable solutions for complex social challenges.

Food Bank of Alaska logo: bread-shaped outline with two overlapping hearts inside a brown circle.
People waiting in line to receive food boxes outdoors.

Inclusive Service

We serve all Alaskans with equal dignity - no documentation, discrimination, or barriers to accessing life-saving services.

5 Decades of Community Impact

From our founding in the 1945 Lutheran movement through incorporation in 1973, LSSA has evolved to meet Alaska's changing social service needs while maintaining our core commitment to serving all community members with dignity and respect.

Group of people standing in front of a gray van on a cloudy day, smiling.

Leadership Team

Red hands arranged in a cross shape on a white background.

Alan Budahl


Executive Director

Contact Alan
Red hands arranged in a cross shape on a white background.
Red hands arranged in a cross shape on a white background.

Chery Balasi


Programs Coordinator

Contact Chery
Red hands arranged in a cross shape on a white background.

2025 Board of Directors

Red hands arranged in a cross shape on a white background.

Mark Schmeling


President

Contact Alan
Red hands arranged in a cross shape on a white background.
Red hands arranged in a cross shape on a white background.
Red hands arranged in a cross shape on a white background.
Red hands arranged in a cross shape on a white background.
Red hands arranged in a cross shape on a white background.
Red hands arranged in a cross shape on a white background.

Join Our Mission

Lutheran Social Services of Alaska's board members and committee volunteers play a vital role in guiding our mission and expanding our impact across Alaska. We welcome passionate individuals who want to contribute their expertise, time, and leadership to support vulnerable communities. Submit the form below to express your interest, and our team will follow up with you about current opportunities and next steps.