Laura Kelly Lovdahl

The idea of philanthropy, “the love of humankind,” is a key element behind our mission.

In my role, I work to deepen relationships and build connections with individuals allowing them the opportunity to support this mission through philanthropic gifts or fundraising activities. Contributions that LifeSource receives (1) amplify our education outreach and awareness programs across our service area; and (2) enhance various programs and grief resources that are provided to donor families.

Since May 2017, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with people whose lives have been touched by donation in some meaningful way – donor families, transplant recipients and their caregivers. To hear their stories, and to invite their involvement in supporting this mission through their time and treasure is both humbling and inspiring.

My father received the gift of sight through a cornea transplant 30 years ago because two people said “yes” to donation. Two of his siblings have received this same gift. At the time of my mom’s death in July 2023, she was able to be an eye donor for research through the Lions Gift of Sight. Her legacy will include furthering the scientific advances for treating diseases that affect vision. My parents are my “why”, my inspiration in this work.

Over the span of my career, I have worked in crisis counseling, mental health long-term care, community engagement and advocacy for public education – at the state level, through non-profit organizations, and as a community volunteer. Building and creating connections lies at the heart of each of these roles and is an important part of the engagement I have in my role at LifeSource.

I choose to work at LifeSource because of the inspiring donor families and transplant recipients I’ve met; the people I have yet to meet whose lives will be touched by donation, and my incredible colleagues who lead with caring compassion every single day. Philanthropy means “the love of humankind” and loving humankind is exactly what happens when we honor the decisions of those who say “yes” to donation.