Meeting People Where They Are Jeanette Hrovatich on Compassion, Support, and the Mission of LSS

Support can change everything when people are facing difficult seasons in life. In this episode of Taylor Community Connection, Tom Cole sits down with Jeanette M. Hrovatich, Director of Planned Giving at Lutheran Social Services of Northwestern Ohio, to talk about how LSS continues to serve individuals and families across the region with compassion, dignity, and practical support.

Jeanette shares how LSS helps nearly 30,000 people each year through a wide range of confidential services designed to meet people where they are. From the Emergency Choice Food Pantry to mental health counseling, substance use services, and family support programs, the organization works to ensure people have access to care during some of life’s most challenging moments.

In the conversation, Jeanette highlights the impact of the Employer Resource Network, an innovative program where success coaches partner directly with local businesses to help employees navigate obstacles that can affect work and stability. Challenges like transportation, childcare, housing concerns, and financial stress can quickly become overwhelming, and these coaches provide practical guidance to help people stay employed and move forward.

Jeanette also discusses newer initiatives, including expanded walk in mental health support designed to make care more accessible when people need it most. As the need for services continues to grow, LSS is also planning future expansion at its Toledo location to better serve the community and create more opportunities for support.

This episode is a reminder that meaningful community care begins with compassion and the willingness to walk alongside people through difficult times. Through its work, LSS continues to offer hope, stability, and a path forward for thousands across Northwest Ohio.

👉 Watch now to hear how Jeanette Hrovatich and Lutheran Social Services of Northwestern Ohio are helping individuals and families find support, stability, and hope.