LASA to Change its Name and Logo

In an effort to show a more business-like appearance, the Lakewood Area Shelter Association—known by many as LASA—will officially change its logo and name to on Aug. 25.

LASA began in 1989. Its goal is to get families back into permanent housing and to prevent recurrent homelessness. The non-profit also works with other groups like Caring For Kids by donating clothes and other items to needy individuals and families.

Based on the responses, Janne Hutchins, executive director, said they designed a new logo, new colors and a new name.

"Well, not exactly," Hutchins said in a press release. "We still will be known as LASA only now we are getting rid of the word shelter in our name and embracing the fact that while our ties are in Lakewood, we house people throughout Pierce County."

Marketing firm Rusty George Creative helped LASA determine who they are and who they wanted to be. RGC queried community partners and came up with the new name and logo.

LASA provides outreach services, including utility and rent assistance and other emergency needs for almost 700 local households in 2010, according to their annual report. They had 241 referrals this past month and served 91 people.

LASA hosts free event on Aug. 25 to unveil new logo and name

LASA is hosting a free ice cream social from 4-6 p.m. on Aug. 25 at Fort Steilacoom Park, located at 87th & Steilacoom Blvd to unveil its new logo and name. There will be a bounce house, cotton candy, face painting and free coffee by Lakebridge Forza.