LSS to continue Russ Kennedy's legacy of service in Southern Minnesota

Thanks to a generous gift from Russ Kennedy, Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota (LSS) now provides individualized support and assistance to an additional 106 individuals with identified needs in southern Minnesota to help them live full and abundant lives in their homes and community. LSS also welcomed 40 new employees from Kennedy’s team to ensure continuity of care for individuals supported. 

The decision to gift these services to LSS came as Kennedy prepares to fully retire. He wanted to ensure that the individuals he served received the same high-quality support. Kennedy’s longstanding history with LSS was the reason he chose to partner with the organization. 

“I worked for LSS back in the 70s,” said Kennedy, CEO of Cenneidigh, Inc. “When we started to talk about gifting, we knew LSS had a proven track record to continue these services. It was very important to me that what’s been provided continues. Part of my legacy would be fulfilled by these services going forward.” 

“We are immensely grateful to Russ Kennedy for his confidence in LSS,” said Mark Dubbels, associate vice president of LSS Residential and Customized Support Services. “Because of his gift, these individuals will continue receiving care from employees they know and trust, and LSS has been able to expand services in the Faribault, Austin and Dakota County areas.”

“Our teams have worked together seamlessly during the transition,” Dubbels remarked. “Russ knows that LSS is a trustworthy organization and that we will continue to provide great support for individuals with identified needs in southern Minnesota for years to come.”

Kennedy echoed the smooth transition of services. “LSS has shown that if you work closely, services can continue flawlessly.”