As Lutheran Child and Family Services of Illinois celebrates its 150th Anniversary, we’re taking time to look back at some of the lives we’ve impacted with your support.
Ambie Garcia, now 78 years old, came into LCFS’ care at the age of 16 along with her sister (11) and brother (2). Their mother was diagnosed with severe mental illness and their father suffered from substance abuse issues, which eventually led to him losing his job. Ambie had a tough childhood, caring for her siblings as well as cooking and cleaning. “At the age of seven, I was told that my playing days were over, and I had responsibilities,” explained Ambie.
During high school, Ambie worked at the library after school and her grades began to suffer. To scare her, Ambie’s dad threatened to pull her out of school and make her work full time. The next day she asked one of her teachers if her dad could do that and shared what her situation was like at home. The teacher immediately contacted several child welfare agencies looking for help. LCFS responded. It was a pivotal moment that helped change the trajectory of Ambie’s life.
All three children were brought into care. Her siblings were placed with an LCFS foster family where they flourished. Ambie has always remained in touch with them, but her path took her in a different direction. She was set-up in an independent living program with her own room and monthly allowance.
“After living in two rooms to save heating oil, with cockroaches, and no running water, and sleeping on a sofa too short for my long legs … this new arrangement was heaven!” said Ambie. “It was pristine. I could shower daily and sleep in a clean bed with fresh linen.”
Ambie was also assigned an LCFS caseworker, Ms. Carter who she remembers fondly as “a guardian angel and a fairy godmother all wrapped into one.” When Ms. Carter discovered Ambie wasn’t going to her prom because she didn’t have a dress to wear, she ensured LCFS paid for Ambie to receive a new dress, shoes and gloves. “Thanks to Ms. Carter and LCFS it was a memorable evening.”
After high school, Ambie went on to junior college and was then inspired to get her degree at Northwestern University. She worked full time at the Chicago Public Library to support herself and had to attend college at night. Sometimes she had to take a year off to save enough money for two or three classes. She didn’t let setbacks deter her from her goal. After 11 years, Ambie graduated college with her degree.
Ambie went on to work for different city agencies and eventually retired with her pension at the age of 55. She then took her dream job at the Adler Planetarium job training their customer service staff. Ambie is now officially retired and living in downtown Chicago in a beautiful high-rise with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
Ambie feels strongly that her family owes their good fortune to LCFS. In her case, the agency provided her with excellent housing, an amazing caseworker and an opportunity to continue her education.
“I know first-hand the importance of having a clean environment, good food, a place to study and people who counsel and care for you,” explained Ambie. “My caseworker always made me feel proud of myself. I would come away from our meetings feeling uplifted. She guided me with a gentle hand.”
Today, Ambie feels strongly about giving back to the agency that cared for her and her family when they were in need. “As soon as I was financially able, I felt a commitment to donate money to LCFS to help them continue to support children and families in need,” said Ambie. “In my opinion, caseworkers are of paramount importance. We all want the money to be spent on clients, but without the people who serve them there would be no agency.”
Ambie’s support started out small by having a recurring gift deducted from her monthly paycheck. Over the years, she continued to give and would make the donation a few dollars larger with each raise or promotion.
Ambie also feels it is important to continue to give generously even after she passes. In order to do that, she joined LCFS’ Shepherd’s Society by adding LCFS to her will, so she can continue to make an impact well into the future.
“I hope that people donate generously to LCFS because the work they do cannot be underestimated,” said Ambie. “Every dollar helps. The important thing is to give as much as you are able.”
