Amidst the end-of-summer, back-to-school chaos that August induces, we’re discussing at Elevate Branson the importance of slowing down, being with people, and building relationships. Rarely does life change occur overnight, and even more rarely does it happen in the absence of community. Poverty is complex, and to help people overcome the circumstances and mindsets that are keeping them stuck, it’s essential that we develop the relational credibility needed to truly help people experience transformation. James Whitford, Founder of True Charity Initiative, once said, “As long as the desire of a community or a society is to fix the problem of homelessness more than it is to be with people who are experiencing homelessness, we will never see these problems actually be resolved.” At Elevate Branson, we posture our hearts to “be with” rather than to “fix,” and that comes through the desire to be intentional with the people we serve because we believe they have innate value as people created in the image of God. Read in this month’s edition of our newsletter how you too can come “be with” individuals in our community needing some additional support in order to experience what it means to walk in their fullest potential. |  | |
Bryan Stallings
Founder, Elevate Branson
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Elevate Entrepreneurs Business Workshop
August 25th
11:30 A.M.
Elevate Work Mentor Orientation
August 28th
6:00 P.M.
Elevate Outreach Meal Delivery
August 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, and 31st
5:30 P.M.
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ELEVATE KIDS SUMMER SCHOOL RECAP | |
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Our Elevate kiddos ended summer school with a bang by visiting both the Titanic Museum and the Amazing Pets show at Grand Country. Two months of field trips, learning opportunities, and summer fun came to an end late July. While we’re sad summer school is over for this year, we’re already looking ahead to when we get to welcome our area kiddos back in September for our after-school program. This month will consist of helping our area children purchase school supplies through a generous donation from the Branson-Hollister Lions Club.
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RESOURCES FOR SMALL BUSINESSES
ELEVATE ENTREPRENEURS
BUSINESS WORKSHOP
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On August 25th we’re hosting another Elevate Entrepreneurs Business Workshop presented by SBA offering resources for small business owners in the area featuring speakers from the Branson Chamber, SCORE and SBDC. Lunch will be provided and the event will be located at the Elevate Branson campus from 11:30 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. with a $15 admission fee for the public and a $10 admission fee for Elevate Entrepreneurs graduates. If you’re interested in connecting with resources that can help your small business expand, RSVP today!
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We have an upcoming Elevate Work class beginning in September, and are looking for individuals in the community who are interested in investing in people looking to reroute their future, unlock their passions and learn how to find and keep meaningful employment. Individuals interested in encouraging our neighbors through mentorship as they take our Elevate Work course are invited to our Mentor Orientation on August 28th at 6:00 P.M. at the Elevate Branson campus. We provide the tools and education, you provide the willing heart to invest in those who need investing in. Contact Donna McConkey, Elevate Work Director, at Donna.McConkey@ElevateBranson.org, or 417-527-1709, to learn more about how you can get involved today.
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VOLUNTEER ON THURSDAY EVENINGS | |
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Can’t commit to mentoring our neighbors but still want to serve? Join us for Elevate Outreach Thursday Evening Meal Delivery each Thursday night from 5:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. Meal Delivery is an opportunity to build relationships and resource our neighbors with next steps and connections to support services they may need. We deliver over 500 meals to our neighbors residing in extended-stay motels each week, and are looking for more volunteers to come serve with us. Contact Amy Stallings, Volunteer Coordinator, at Amy.Stallings@ElevateBranson.org or 417-335-0266 to learn more.
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ELEVATE BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP SPOTLIGHT: CRAZY CRAIG'S CHEEKY MONKEY BAR | | |
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Cheeky Monkey has recently joined as an Elevate Branson business partner, and is resourcing their employees with the opportunity to gain access to affordable transportation. With Cheeky Monkey joining as a business partner and choosing to invest in their valued employees, their workers are now able to give back through the time and capacity gained by having reliable and consistent access to transportation, rather than having to rely on others for transportation or walk from their homes to work. Your business can take advantage of the same opportunities as Cheeky Monkey has to reduce turn over costs and invest in your workforce. Visit our website or contact Matt Grindstaff at 417.598.0962 today to learn more.
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Louis came to Branson for the same reason as countless others – looking for job opportunities. But also, like many of our neighbors, Louis had lost his identification documents needed to secure employment. Louis ended up jobless, homeless, and without support - until a friend recommended he visit Elevate Branson for assistance. Louis was able to work for Rewards to earn the things he needed, such as clothing and food items. After two months, Elevate Connections was able to help Louis obtain his ID and other documents needed in order to find employment. Shortly after, Louis was able to find not only one, but two jobs, and has since also been able to secure housing. Louis is officially off the streets and working jobs he enjoys. We’re proud of Louis and his perseverance, determination, and resiliency as he worked to overcome the barriers keeping him from accessing the things he needed to increase his qualify of life.
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Swing by on your morning commute or stop in for a mid-day pick-me-up! Elevate Coffee provides hand crafted espresso based drinks, refreshing smoothies, and delicious desserts.
Hours
Monday - Friday: 7:30 A.M. - 2:00 P.M.
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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.
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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.
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Shop on AmazonSmile and 0.5% of the purchase price will be donated to Elevate Branson! | | | |
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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.
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