|
19 For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.
– Isaiah 43:19 NLT
| |
As we move into the heart of summer, we continue to be encouraged by the life change happening every day at Elevate Branson. May was filled with celebrations as we recognized graduates from both our Elevate Work and Elevate Entrepreneurs programs. These individuals invested in themselves, embraced new opportunities, and took meaningful steps toward a brighter future. Their stories of perseverance, determination, and growth remind us why our mission matters. Whether someone is preparing for employment, starting a business, overcoming barriers, or building confidence, we are continually inspired by the courage of those we serve.
Summer is also off to a great start with the launch of Elevate Kids Summer School. Through our partnership with Branson Schools, 42 students, K-4th, are participating in a summer filled with learning, enrichment, mentorship, and exciting field trips. Our goal is to help students maintain academic progress during the summer months but also to create opportunities for them to explore new experiences, build relationships, and grow in confidence. We are grateful for the teachers, staff, volunteers, and partners who make this program possible and invest in the next generation of our community.
At the same time, programs like Elevate Rides continue to make a real difference in the lives of our neighbors. Reliable transportation remains one of the greatest barriers to employment and stability, and we continue to see stories of individuals who are able to maintain jobs, secure housing, and build a better future because of access to affordable transportation. Every program at Elevate Branson is designed with the same goal in mind: helping people move from crisis to stability and toward long-term success. Thank you for being part of this mission. Your support, prayers, volunteer service, and generosity make these stories of transformation possible every day.
"Summer- the time when parents realize how underpaid teachers actually are."
– Unknown
| |
Bryan Stallings
Founder, Elevate Branson
|
| TINY HOME CONSTRUCTION UPDATE | | |
Construction activity continues at a rapid pace throughout Elevate Community as we build on the momentum created by the successful completion of the first eight homes. Over the past several weeks, crews have poured eight new foundations and are preparing for the next group of tiny homes to arrive in the coming weeks. It’s exciting to watch the community take shape as each new foundation represents another opportunity for an individual or couple to experience safe, stable, affordable housing. In addition, fencing is now being installed along the top of the retaining wall, adding both safety and beauty to the development as infrastructure work continues across the site.
The pace of construction will only accelerate throughout July as plans are underway to dig and pour an additional 20 foundations. As we continue moving forward, we need your help. There are still opportunities to sponsor homes, furnish homes, and leave a lasting legacy through road naming sponsorships. Whether you're an individual, family, church, civic group, or business, we invite you to become part of this story. Consider gathering family members, friends, employees, Sunday school classes, small groups, or church congregations together to sponsor a home or furniture package. These sponsorships are about much more than construction, they are an investment in hope, dignity, and life change for years to come. Together, we can continue building a community where people not only find housing, but also find belonging, encouragement, and a brighter future. If you would like to learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact us. We would love to help you find a meaningful way to become part of the Elevate Community legacy.
| | |
Work matters because it provides far more than a paycheck. Work creates purpose, builds confidence, develops skills, and gives people the opportunity to contribute to something greater than themselves. There is a unique sense of dignity that comes from earning something through effort and perseverance. When individuals work toward a goal, whether it's maintaining employment, completing a class, or achieving a personal milestone, they experience the pride that comes from knowing they accomplished it themselves. At Elevate Branson, we believe that people thrive when they are empowered, not simply provided for. While assistance is sometimes necessary during difficult seasons, our goal is always to help individuals move toward greater independence, responsibility, and self-sufficiency.
That philosophy is reflected in Elevate Branson's Rewards Program. Rather than simply handing out items, participants earn points by contributing through meaningful work on our campus. Whether it's mopping floors, helping with landscaping projects, working in the thrift store, cleaning bathrooms, folding newsletters, setting up for events, or assisting with various campus needs, participants have the opportunity to earn items through their effort and contribution. The rewards themselves are important, but the greater lesson is learning the connection between work and achievement.
For many individuals, the Rewards Program serves as a first step toward rebuilding confidence, establishing a work ethic, and rediscovering the dignity that comes from earning something rather than receiving a handout. It creates an environment where people can contribute, be part of a team, and experience the satisfaction of accomplishing a task. By providing opportunities to work, serve, and earn, Elevate Branson helps individuals develop habits and skills that can translate into long-term employment, greater self-sufficiency, and a renewed sense of purpose. We believe people are capable of far more than they often realize, and sometimes all they need is an opportunity to prove it, to themselves and others.
| | |
Natural playgrounds offer children something that traditional playgrounds often cannot, an opportunity to engage with the natural world while developing creativity, problem-solving skills, and confidence. Instead of relying solely on manufactured equipment, natural playgrounds incorporate elements such as logs, boulders, hills, water features, gardens, sand, and native plants. These environments encourage imaginative play, exploration, and discovery. Research has shown that children who spend more time interacting with nature experience improved focus, reduced stress, increased physical activity, and stronger social skills. Natural playgrounds invite children to create their own adventures, fostering independence and resilience in ways that structured play often cannot.
Beyond the benefits for children, natural playgrounds create spaces that bring families and communities together. They provide opportunities for children of different ages and abilities to play cooperatively while developing a greater appreciation for God's creation. Natural settings also tend to promote longer periods of engagement, allowing children to unplug from screens and connect with the world around them. At Elevate Branson, we believe that healthy childhood development extends beyond the classroom, and spaces that encourage creativity, exploration, and active play are an important part of helping children grow into confident, capable, and healthy adults. A natural playground is more than a place to play, it's a place where curiosity, learning, and lifelong memories are cultivated.
| | ANNUAL SUMMER BASH DANCE PARTY | | |
Every summer, Elevate Branson hosts one of our favorite community events of the year, the Annual Summer Bash Dance Party! This free community celebration brings together neighbors of all ages for an evening filled with fun, food, music, games, inflatables, and fellowship. In partnership with Kids Across America (KAA), the Summer Bash creates an opportunity for families, children, seniors, and individuals from all walks of life to come together and simply enjoy being part of a community. It’s a night where barriers disappear, friendships are formed, and everyone is reminded that they belong.
This year's Summer Bash took place on Tuesday, June 16, from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at the Elevate Branson Campus. Guests enjoyed free food, inflatables for the kids, games, a live DJ, dancing, and plenty of opportunities to connect with friends old and new. Events like the Summer Bash are a reflection of what Elevate Branson is all about, building community, creating connections, and bringing hope, joy, and belonging to our neighbors.
| | | |
|
Looking to give back to the community? We have several volunteer opportunities available this month:
- Tutors for our education programs
- Cooks for our Elevate Life program
- Landscapers for our Playground
If you're interested, please sign up on our website or contact our volunteer coordinator at Volunteer@ElevateBranson.org.
| | |
A heartfelt thank you to our generous donors who make our work possible. Your contributions have a direct impact on the lives of many in our community. Together, we are making a difference. | | | Thank you for being a part of the Elevate Branson family. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events and continuing to make a positive impact together. | |
| |
Warm regards,
The Elevate Branson Team
| | | | |
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. Now featuring daily lunch specials!
Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M.
| | | | |
Open For Business!
Come find a treasure at the Elevate Thrift Store 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.
| | | | |
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.
| | | | |
