2026 is an important year for Lutheran Services in America. In a rapidly shifting environment marked by changes in Medicaid financing, housing instability, and workforce pressures (to name just a few), our network is moving beyond adaptation toward intentional system leadership. We are stepping forward to position and advance our network of Lutheran social ministries to catalyze collaboration and innovation. Here are some highlights.
Growing our Collective Capacity to Lead
Leadership is at the heart of our mission. This year, we’re doubling down on efforts to support CEOs and their leadership teams more intentionally and consistently starting with The Summit: Bold Leadership and the Art of Resilience. The Summit convenes leaders across philanthropy, policy, housing, and technology, creating space for collaboration and action.
Peer networks like the Lutheran Information Technology Network (LITN) and Lutheran Financial Managers Association (LFMA) amplify this work, offering trusted spaces for learning and innovation throughout the year. For example, through our AI Advisory Committee, community of practice, and new webinar series with LITN and LFMA, we’re creating a trusted space for CEOs to set direction, provide oversight, and operationalize AI in alignment with our shared mission and values.
Catalyzing Innovation and Collaboration
We’re investing in strategies that create new pathways for growth. Through the Housing Solutions Collaborative, 27 members that steward $1 billion in annual revenue are shaping solutions at the intersection of health and housing.
The Results Innovation Lab, which celebrates its 10th anniversary in February, is evolving into an integrated platform that elevates equity, housing, workforce, and policy strategies for long-term scale. At the same time, with new partnerships like the SCAN Foundation and RRF, we’re preparing for demographic shifts by scaling and replicating our Rural Aging Action Networks.
Amplifying our United, Faith-based Voice
Policy and advocacy remain top priorities. For example, our Medicaid strategy with leadership from our Policy & Advocacy Committee, works in two ways: 1) Defending against challenges to eligibility and enrollment as H.R. 1 continues to be implemented, while at the same time, informing the new Rural Health Transformation Fund; and 2) Strengthening partnerships between CBOs and Medicaid managed care organizations, including through value-based payment approaches to improve outcomes and control costs.
Looking Ahead
Leadership is not about certainty; it’s about presence. In 2026, our network is showing up with clarity and resilience by aligning mission with strategy, grounding policy with practice, and positioning our network to lead rather than follow. This year, even with the many ongoing challenges and disruptions, we are committed to persevering with bold leadership and resilience.
Alesia Frerichs is the President & CEO of Lutheran Services in America.