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Chicago-based Natzke Trust presents Bethesda with $200,000 donation

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On September 13, Richard Treptow, trustee of the George and LaVerne Natzke Trust of Chicago, presented a donation of $222,520 to Bethesda Lutheran Homes and Services, Inc., a not-for-profit developmental disability service provider headquartered in Watertown, Wis., out of thankfulness for the many years of service Bethesda had provided to George Natzke’s cousin, Arnold Freese.

This gift comes as a result of the lifelong commitment and generosity displayed by the Natzkes, who were lifelong residents of Chicago. Their gift will be used to support the work of Bethesda as it positively impacts the physical and spiritual lives of over 1,900 people in over 200 group homes, facilities and community service programs operated by Bethesda across the country.

“We are truly thankful for the generous gift bestowed upon us from the Natzke Trust,” says Dr. David Geske, president and CEO of Bethesda. “It has been because of generous donors such as George and LaVerne Natzke that Bethesda has been able to provide high-quality services to people with developmental disabilities for over 100 years. And, because of their generous gift, as well as other support from charitable donors, we will continue to be able to provide such services for years to come.”

Now in its second century of service, Bethesda Lutheran Homes and Services, Inc. provides services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities throughout the country and throughout the world. It is Bethesda’s mission to support the needs of the individual—both physical and spiritual—and as a result, Bethesda offers many different types of services for the individual and their family, including a variety of residential facilities, supported-living programs, outreach services and secular training workshops. For more information on Bethesda’s services and support programs, call the public relations office at 800.369.4636, ext. 3817, or email: pr@blhs.org.