SEPTEMBER 2021 NEWSLETTER

A NOTE FROM BRYAN

Fall is fast approaching, and as we wrap up the summer, we’re looking forward to all fall holds in store for our programs. After school activities with Elevate Kids, classes starting back up for Elevate Work, and so much more! Read up on how we’re kicking off the start of fall in this September edition of our newsletter. 

Bryan Stallings

Founder, Elevate Branson

FUN AND LEARNING CONTINUES BEYOND THE CLASSROOM!

Elevate Kids’ after school program is back and better than ever! Starting September 14th, Elevate Branson will be a site for after school programming and tutoring through Branson Schools. Through September and October, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, laughter and fun will surge though our hallways as kiddos focus on improving their knowledge in science, writing, and reading comprehension. After school program activities will also emphasize social-emotional and relational skill building to help each student reach their full potential in the classroom! 

O'REILLY AND WOOTEN FAMILY PROVIDE THE GIFT A HOME

The O’Reilly and Wooten Family generously bring us one tiny home closer to 70 homes total for Elevate Community! The O’Reilly and Wooten’s have a long lasting legacy of investing in organizations working to provide emotional and physical support for those in need. Larry O’Reilly mentions, “Providing not only housing, but other tools to help someone get back on their feet is a wonderful gift.” Elevate Community tiny home sponsors, like the O’Reilly-Wooten’s, play a fundamental role in bringing this housing project to life to provide not only housing, but community, support and acceptance for people needing a sustainable place to call home. For more information on Elevate Community and how you can get involved, contact Matt Grindstaff at (417) 598-0962 or Matt.Grindstaff@ElevateBranson.Org. 

MENTORSHIP: A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH

“Elevate Work is one of the most rewarding things I believe I have ever done,” mentions Donnie Kirk, reflecting on his 3 seasons of mentoring. “I couldn’t be more proud of all the students who have graduated the class and are working or going to school to improve their careers.” For Donnie’s first time mentoring, he was paired with student, Luke Amis, through Elevate Work. Over the course of the nine week class, their mentor-mentee relationship flourished. With Donnie’s guidance, Luke successfully found employment at WonderWorks upon graduation of the program, and has been excelling in his position ever since. “Luke’s creativity and willingness to learn continuously exceed our expectations. The value he has added to our company has helped us reach new levels in team motivation and diversity,” says Operations Manager at WonderWorks, Roger Callahan. “I also appreciate that Luke always has a smile, a positive attitude, and has stayed dedicated to his own tasks while assisting with the exhibits team as an exhibit’s operator. This says a lot about his willingness to learn and hunger to expand his knowledge.” Luke credits Elevate Work for his success in the workforce mentioning, “It taught me how to keep a job. My mentor encouraged me to find a job, and to work hard at it.” Not only did Luke find successful employment through Elevate Work, he also found a friend and confidant in his mentor, Donnie. We’re proud of Luke and thankful for mentors like Donnie who help light the path to employment for our Elevate Work students. 

Class is in session beginning September 13th, with Mentor Orientation on September 8th at 6:00 P.M. If you or someone you know is interested in participating in Elevate Work as a student, as a mentor, or on the business panel, contact Donna McConkey at (417) 527-1709 or Donna.McConkey@ElevateBranson.Org to learn more!  

MEET HALEY HUMBIRD

ELEVATE THRIFT STORE MANAGER

“After having worked in big box retail for as long as I have, it’s refreshing to be actively making a difference in people’s lives with my work. Being able to pause and connect with our neighbors and hear their stories is heartwarming. I’ve lost count of how many people have told me that they’ve prayed for a specific item and found it in our store for a price they can afford. It’s incredible!” 

We’re glad to have someone like Haley on our team who’s passionate about serving our neighbors in the thrift store. Welcome aboard!

Great Food For A Great Cause.

Stop by on a Friday afternoon with a friend and have a buy one, get one on us, pizza or chopped salad of your choice! Are you a local or first responder? If so, locals receive 10% off and first responders receive 25% off their entire purchase. We can’t wait to serve you!

Hours

Monday - Friday: 11:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M.

Open For Business!

Come find a treasure while helping our neighbors and community prosper! All purchases support the programs at Elevate Branson.

Hours

Monday – Friday: 9:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M.

Saturday: 9:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.

Shop on AmazonSmile and 0.5% of the purchase price will be donated to Elevate Branson!

Get Involved And Make A Difference!

Call 417.335.9915 or email Info@ElevateBranson.org to learn more about volunteer opportunities where your time and talents can empower others to reach their full potential.