Lutheran Social Services of Nevada (LSSN) Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Lutheran Social Services of Nevada (LSSN) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to expressing the love of Christ by serving and caring for individuals in need throughout Southern Nevada. Established in 1985, LSSN has been a cornerstone in providing essential services to low-income families, seniors, and at-risk individuals in the Las Vegas area. The organization operates with a mission to uplift and support people through various programs and services.

Mission and Vision

LSSN's mission is to "express the love of Christ through actions that uplift and support people in need," guided by core values encapsulated in the acronym HEART:

Helpfulness: Extending a helping hand to those in need.

Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others.

Accountability: Taking responsibility for actions and their impacts.

Respect: Valuing the diversity and contributions of each individual.

Teamwork: Collaborating effectively to achieve common goals.

These principles guide LSSN in delivering compassionate and comprehensive services to the community.

Primary Area of Focus

LSSN focuses on providing essential services such as food assistance, nutrition education, senior meal programs, family empowerment services, and health insurance support for low-income families. The organization aims to address immediate needs while empowering individuals towards self-sufficiency.

Industry Significance

As a leading nonprofit in Southern Nevada, LSSN plays a crucial role in addressing food insecurity, homelessness, and economic challenges faced by vulnerable populations. Its innovative programs, like the DigiMart online food pantry, set a benchmark for community service organizations in the region.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Comprehensive Service Delivery: Offering a range of programs to meet the diverse needs of the community, including food assistance, senior services, and family empowerment.

Community Empowerment: Providing resources and support to help individuals achieve self-sufficiency and improve their quality of life.

Innovation in Service Delivery: Implementing programs like DigiMart to enhance accessibility and efficiency in service provision.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Food Assistance: Operating the DigiMart Food Pantry, the first online food pantry in the country, allowing clients to select their own food items digitally.

Senior Services: Providing nutritious meals and support programs for seniors, including the Heart of the City Senior Meal Program.

Family Empowerment: Offering assistance with obtaining birth certificates, state identification, SNAP benefits, and employment-related services.

Key Technologies Utilized

DigiMart Online Food Pantry: An innovative digital platform enabling clients to order food items online for pickup, enhancing convenience and dignity in food assistance.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

Low-Income Families: Addressing food insecurity and providing essential services to families facing economic hardships.

Seniors: Offering support and nutrition programs to older adults, ensuring their well-being and independence.

At-Risk Individuals: Providing resources and assistance to individuals facing homelessness, unemployment, or other challenges.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

LSSN operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, primarily funded through donations, grants, and community support. In the fiscal year ending June 2023, the organization reported total revenues of $3,304,769 and expenses of $3,284,736, resulting in a net income of $20,033.

Total Funds Raised

In 2023, LSSN's total revenues amounted to $3,304,769, with contributions accounting for 99.2% of this total.

Notable Investors

As a nonprofit entity, LSSN does not have investors in the traditional sense. However, it receives significant support from various foundations and organizations, including:

Thrivent Charitable Impact and Investing: Provided general support funding of $8,824.

Three Square Food Bank: Offered charitable contributions totaling $6,114.

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans: Contributed general support funding of $5,820.

Intended Utilization of Capital

The funds raised are allocated towards program services, operational costs, and expanding service offerings to meet the growing needs of the community. In 2023, the organization distributed over 600,000 pounds of food, equating to 503,000 meals for those in need.

Pipeline Development

As a nonprofit organization, LSSN does not have a product pipeline in the traditional sense. However, it continually develops and enhances its programs to better serve the community. Notable developments include:

Journey Senior Services Center: Scheduled to break ground in 2024, this center aims to provide new initiatives that serve and empower seniors.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

DigiMart Online Food Pantry: An innovative digital platform that allows clients to select and "purchase" food items online, enhancing convenience and dignity in food assistance.

Significant Scientific Methods

Nutrition Education Kitchen: Offers cooking demonstrations and healthy eating classes to educate clients about nutrition and making healthy choices for their families.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

Tim Bedwell: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Professional Background: Information not specified.

Key Contributions: Oversees the strategic direction and operations of LSSN.

Adam Kent: Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Professional Background: Information not specified.

Key Contributions: Manages day-to-day operations and ensures program effectiveness.

Jon Paul: Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Professional Background: Information not specified.

Key Contributions: Oversees financial planning and management to ensure organizational sustainability.

Leadership Changes

Specific details regarding recent leadership changes or appointments are not available.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The nonprofit sector in Southern Nevada is characterized by a diverse range of organizations addressing various social issues, including food insecurity, homelessness, and economic empowerment. The market is dynamic, with organizations continually adapting to meet the evolving needs of the community.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the region include:

Three Square Food Bank: A major food bank serving Southern Nevada, providing food assistance and nutrition education.

Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada: Offers a range of services, including food assistance, housing, and healthcare.

Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth: Focuses on providing support and resources for homeless youth in the area.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

LSSN collaborates with various organizations to enhance service delivery, including:

Three Square Food Bank: Partnered for open-air markets to distribute food and water.

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield: Collaborated on a location in North Las Vegas to expand services.

Operational Insights

LSSN differentiates itself through innovative programs like DigiMart, which enhances client dignity and convenience in food assistance. The organization also emphasizes comprehensive support services, including nutrition education and family empowerment programs, setting it apart from competitors.