We’ve had an incredibly exciting summer so far with tiny home announcements, summer school, and Elevate Work graduations - and it’s just the beginning. While August in some ways feels like our time to exhale, we’re getting our bearings in preparation for all that we have planned and in store for the remainder of the summer and the rest of 2021. We’re looking onward in anticipation of all that’s to come, and we hope you’ll join us in that anticipation as you read more in this month’s newsletter about some of the ways we’re continuing to bring hope, healing and restoration to our neighbors in need. | |
Bryan Stallings
Founder, Elevate Branson
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IT'S A FARMER'S LIFE FOR ME | |
At the end of July, our summer school kiddos visited College of the Ozarks’ Dairy Farm and spent time acquainting themselves with some new furry friends! Along with meeting the farm animals, students learned about the process of making dairy products, and ended a hard day’s work on the farm with a sweet treat - C of O’s homemade ice cream! July was our last month of summer school, and we’re going to miss having our favorite kids around campus for the better part of each day, but school starting back up means we’re getting closer and closer to Elevate Kids’ after school program starting again in September. We’re looking forward to it already! | |
FINDING PURPOSE IN MEANINGFUL WORK | |
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This summer, our Elevate Work graduates have all been working diligently and accomplishing their career goals, including Sandy Sellman and Tonya Trivitt, two Elevate Work graduates who now help manage Second Chance Thrift Store at The Simmering Center! We see the desired outcome of the Elevate Work program come to fruition in the lives of graduates like Sandy and Tonya, when they find dignity and meaning in their work. We are always so proud of all of our graduates as they take the next steps after graduation to find and keep employment. The next Elevate Work course begins September 13th, with Mentor Orientation on September 8th at 6pm. If you’re interested in walking alongside, encouraging, and loving on students looking to develop the skills and tools they need to succeed in the workforce, you can reach out to Donna McConkey at DonnaMcConkey@ElevateBranson.Org for more information on how to get involved.
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A FRIEND TO OUR NEIGHBORS: LEON COMBS | |
New momentum is building each day for Elevate Community! Thanks to philanthropist, author, and community leader, Leon Combs, we’re one tiny home closer to clean, affordable and sustainable housing for our neighbors. Leon’s generosity comes from a lifetime of divine intervention amidst situations that otherwise could have left him without hope. “I started life with very little, but have been blessed in so many ways,” he mentioned. Leon dedicates his donation to his late wife, Dot, mentioning, “Dot always had a big heart for those who were struggling, so I wanted to give back and honor her memory with a tiny home sponsorship.” We’re thankful for Leon and all of our donors committed to providing opportunities for our neighbors to have more than just housing, but a place to call home. | |
Doug Lay, Elevate Work Instructor | |
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Doug has committed countless hours to the Elevate Work program, dedicating his time and energy to loving our neighbors. As a mentor, business panel participant, and course instructor, Doug spurs Elevate Work students on to help them find purpose and overcome roadblocks that keep them from reaching their full potential in the workforce. “I have continued to teach because I’ve seen the need for students to understand their self worth and the dignity that working brings,” says Doug. “Most students haven’t been blessed with someone to help them navigate life and the deliberate steps they need to take to be contributing members of our community. Through encouragement and love, Elevate Work gives students the opportunity to completely transform themselves and their family’s lives.” We couldn’t agree more, especially when people like Doug take part!
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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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