Downers Grove couple recognized as Lutheran Social Services True Friend
Lutheran Social Services of Illinois will honor Downers Grove residents John and Liz Rudy with the True Friend Award at its 44th annual True Friend Celebration on Saturday, Oct. 4, recognizing their longtime commitment to service and philanthropy.
The Rudys’ connection to LSSI is rooted in their Lutheran faith and a lifelong dedication to helping others. “We’re living our faith by helping our neighbors in need,” John Rudy said.
The couple met at Valparaiso University and began supporting LSSI early in their marriage through church-sponsored service projects through Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Downers Grove, their church at the time. Their philosophy of giving “time, talent, and treasure” was instilled through their faith and upbringing.
Their connection to LSSI deepened when John joined the LSSI board of directors in 2009.
“I worked my entire career for BMO Harris. The bank was serious about making sure its executives participated in nonprofit organizations at the board level,” he said. “It turns out that the bank had a long history of executive representation on LSSI’s board.”
He served on the board for 12 years, including three as chair. His leadership spanned key committees such as finance, audit, and governance. For a complex organization like LSSI, his leadership and input have been invaluable.
“I was always impressed by the quality of the board members and their engagement, and that Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) bishops from across the state serve on the board.”
When asked about his proudest accomplishment during his tenure of board service, Rudy demurs. “I can’t take credit for so much of the good that was accomplished. It was very collaborative, and Mark’s (Stutrud, LSSI CEO) leadership was strong.”
Despite obstacles the organization has faced in the past, such as the state’s budget impasse 10 years ago and the COVID-19 pandemic, Rudy is pleased by the successful efforts that helped stabilize LSSI’s finances.
“We introduced a competitive 403(b) retirement plan with matching contributions for our 1,200 employees. That financial stability allows LSSI to grow and innovate.”
Founded in 1867, LSSI is one of Illinois’ largest nonprofit social service providers, serving over 56,000 people annually. Its programs include foster care, mental health services, addiction treatment, senior housing, and support for individuals impacted by incarceration.
One key initiative is Project IMPACT, which places behavioral health professionals in hospital emergency rooms such as West Suburban Medical Center to ensure immediate care and free up resources for urgent medical cases.
The Rudys’ support extends beyond John’s board service. They contributed to LSSI’s “Expansion of Our Hearts” campaign and included an undesignated bequest in their estate plan to ensure future sustainability.
Liz Rudy also served 14 years on the board of Hope’s Front Door, a DuPage County nonprofit aiding residents facing short-term financial and employment crises.
John Rudy emphasized that recognition has never been a goal. “We don’t serve expecting awards. It’s truly an honor to be included among past recipients.”
Since 1982, the True Friend Award has celebrated individuals and organizations making significant contributions to the human community. Past honorees include author Walter Wangerin Jr., former U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno, and meteorologist Ginger Zee.
As the Rudys prepare to accept the award, they hope it brings renewed attention to LSSI’s mission. “We just want to keep supporting work that makes a difference,” he said.
Please go to lssi.org/true-friend/ for more information on the 44th annual True Friend Celebration on Oct. 4.