It’s hard to believe we’re already in our second month of 2022. January was a busy month for us here at Elevate, and we don’t anticipate slowing down in February! New initiatives are in the works, including a new program working towards bringing a long awaited solution to a major challenge in our community, as well as introducing a new addition to our Neighbors Hub space. Read about our new developments in this month’s edition of our newsletter. | |
Bryan Stallings
Founder, Elevate Branson
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Elevate Work courses are in session, with our next class beginning February 7th. Enrollment is open now for potential students as well as those in the community interested in mentoring. Not only do mentors get to invest in students looking to find gainful employment, mentors assist our students in finding their identity, passions, confidence, and potential. Only nine weeks of courses can lead to an eternal impact! For more information on how to get involved in our next Elevate Work class starting February 7th, contact Donna McConkey at (417) 527-1709 or at Donna.McConkey@ElevateBranson.Org.
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Lack of affordable housing, limited access to healthcare, lost IDs and birth certificates, and complications with childcare are just a few barriers that keep our neighbors from accessing the resources they need to reach their full potential. A common denominator that contributes to these obstacles is a challenge that has suppressed our community for far too long – lack of public transportation. |  | |
Unfortunately, Branson isn’t large enough in population to be granted funding for government provided public transportation initiatives, even though the square footage of our town stretches over 21 miles, and reaches over 770’ high in elevation. For most of our neighbors living in extended stay motels along 76, sustainable employment options are limited in the vicinity, and finding work in any other area of town makes it increasingly difficult for our neighbors to arrive on time, if at all, thus contributing to the challenge of maintaining purposeful and fulfilling employment.
An Elevate Branson solution for the lack of affordable transportation in our community is in its beginning stages, and we’re excited to share more as we continue in the development process. Be on the lookout for more upcoming information and updates.
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BUILDING EXPERIENCE WITH ELEVATE WORK | |
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Elevate Branson is now partnered with the U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Program! This apprenticeship program is an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway where employers can develop and prepare their future workforce, and individuals can obtain paid work experience, classroom instruction, and a nationally recognized, transferable credential. Through Elevate Work, graduates who are interested in pursuing a career in the food industry can now apply for and obtain an apprenticeship through the Neighbors Hub, and gain hands-on experience in the food handling industry. We’re excited to be introducing this program and providing our neighbors with even more workforce experience!
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INTRODUCING: ELEVATE COFFEE | | |
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Stop by our campus for the best coffee brew this side of town! Elevate Coffee is now open and available to the public. We’re serving Vintage Paris drip coffee, and are working on perfecting our specialty drinks to be enjoyed on the go or inside of our building in our Neighbors Hub café area. We’re excited to offer our community a space to connect with friends, work on homework or work projects, or catch up on a good book over a cup of coffee, a warm pastry, or a refreshing smoothie (or maybe one of each). | |
MEET OUR NEIGHBOR, ANGELA | |
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“I moved to Branson from Michigan after I lost my husband, and everything else as a result. I spiraled downward pretty quickly, and have been without a home since then. I feel so thankful for Elevate and the help they’ve given me. I can work for food and for clothing, and they’ve helped me get back my social security card and ID. I’ve been able to apply for jobs and for housing since receiving those things, and I’ve met a lot of great people who I know will be there for me when I need something.”
We’re proud of Angela and her courage to ask for help and take necessary steps towards hope for a better future. Progress isn’t always linear, but together we can walk the highs and lows with Angela and neighbors like her every step of the way.
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SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS
Our Top Up with Kids! Donor
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Our Up with Kids! fall-winter campaign was a huge success thanks to all of our business participants. It’s because of donations our participating businesses generated that we were able to support children through the holiday season, and are able to continue to provide resources through the winter months to kiddos who need it most. Our top Up with Kids! donor is Shepherd of the Hills, who raised over $5,000 for Elevate Branson through their Trail of Lights attraction! A special thank you to Shepherd of the Hills, and all of our business participants who support our area youth. | | |
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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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