Who We Are

For over 40 years, Lutheran Charities’ primary mission has been to support Western New York communities with kindness, compassion, justice and generosity,

joining people where they are with what they need.

By underwriting grant funding for local agencies throughout the year, Lutheran Charities helps provide education, food, health care, social support and more to

our neediest and underserved neighbors in Western New York.

A generous endowment covering operating costs allows us to channel 100% of donated and contributed funds into community partner programs, each of which is fully vetted and submit quarterly progress reports.

The intersection of synergy that happens when individuals, congregations, businesses and agencies work together is crucial in creating lasting, compassionate social change.

Lutheran Charities is an established, 501c3, human service ministry of the Niagara Frontier Conference of the Upstate New York Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

History & Mission

Caring for and supporting individuals, families and communities by building valuable connections to create synergy and empowerment.

Staff Members

Melanie Rushforth, Chief Executive Officer

melanie@wnylutherancharities.org

(253) 318-5188

Melanie brings to Lutheran Charities a wealth of experience, spanning over 25 years, in the nonprofit sector and leadership roles. Her skillset and drive aligns well with Lutheran Charities’ rich history of supporting regional social services. With a passion for cultivating a culture of compassion, Melanie strives to lean in, inspire, and contribute to the living legacy that is Lutheran Charities of WNY. CLICK HERE to Read More About Melanie!

Jessica Lawrence, Office Administrator
info@wnylutherancharities.org

The friendly voice answering our phone is that of Jessica Lawrence, Office Administrator, who joined the team in September 2021. Jessica handles day-to-day operations at our office and plays key roles organizing and managing our fundraising events, and maintaining our social media and website. She also serves as the secretary at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Tonawanda, NY.

Ryan Lotocki, Executive Director of Lutheran Youth of WNY

lutheranyouth@wnylutherancharities.org

Ryan has been the director of the Lutheran Youth program for several years, engaging Grade 6-12 youth and young adults in activities that promote spiritual growth, foster community, and provide the love of God through the two things kids love most - friendship & FUN!

LEARN MORE about Lutheran Youth of WNY!

Board Members

Mr. David Macro, President (Governance)

Ms. Barbara Biegner, Treasurer (Finance)

Mr. Peter Storey, Secretary (Marketing - Chair)

Dr. Alan Aquilina (Grants)

Mr. Michael Bieger (Finance - Chair)

Mr. John Kinney (Marketing)

Rev. Chad Kyler

Mr. Allan Simmons (Finance)

Mr. Dan Wilkinson

Rev. Jeff Wilson