Agency Fundholder Spotlight: Lutheran Elementary School Association (LESA)
YouthBridge Community Foundation of Greater St. Louis offers endowment building services to help nonprofit agencies generate income for longer-term initiatives. Delivering access to low-cost, high-quality investment solutions and education on endowments is only the start. YouthBridge assists with the entire process – from establishing an endowment fund to financial reporting that creates the greatest impact. YouthBridge also provides matching funds each year to child-serving nonprofits that start or add to their endowment!
Organizations with endowment funds at YouthBridge are called Agency Fundholders. Each month we spotlight one Agency Fundholder to shine light on these meaningful relationships. This month we feature the Lutheran Elementary School Association, and CEO Libby Gutberlet answered our questions.
Q. How has your endowment with YouthBridge expanded the possibilities for the future of Lutheran Elementary School Association?
A. Our endowment strengthens academic excellence by providing training for our educators, while ensuring enrollment stability through scholarships that make Lutheran education accessible. Today, our funds at YouthBridge help supply 80% of our annual scholarship budget, opening doors for more students and securing the future of our schools.
Q. What motivates your organization to make additional contributions to its endowment?
A. We encourage donors to establish and name their own endowment funds, which will live on in perpetuity. Each family legacy fund helps secure the long-term stability of the 38 Lutheran schools and 9,800 students in our metro area for generations to come.
Q. How would you respond if another nonprofit leader asked whether starting an endowment with YouthBridge is worthwhile – and why?
A. I would say, absolutely! Partnering with YouthBridge provides expert guidance and a trusted framework for growth. Our endowment has grown exponentially since we started it nearly 20 years ago. It is a strategic investment that secures your mission, strengthens impact, and builds confidence for the future of your organization.
Q. Do you have any exciting news or upcoming events to share?
A. LESA is celebrating 21 years of impact—providing $9.1 million in financial aid for 13,000 scholarships to local students. We are now gearing up for “A Night for Kids,” our annual gala that raises vital funds to keep Lutheran education accessible across St. Louis.
If you would like to learn more about the Lutheran Elementary School Association or donate to it, please contact Allison McDonald, Grants Manager. If you are interested in becoming a part of the YouthBridge family/partnership and exploring your charitable giving options, please contact Andranique Ellis, Director of Philanthropy.