Hope for 2026!

By: Missy Hanks, Executive Director

2025 was an incredible year of change for good in our community, and looking ahead, I have faith that much more positive change is on the horizon. To be clear, hope is the desire for a future good, while faith is the confident trust that it will happen. Faith involves action, which makes it stronger and more certain than hope alone.

Strong communities matter. People do better when they know others are interested and paying attention. Motivation is the initial drive, but accountability provides the structure and commitment to create lasting change. Simple actions—checking in, showing up consistently, keeping our word and commitments—create stability. Community cohesion reduces isolation and helps people face challenges with support instead of alone.

Charity must be accurate and accountable. Good intentions aren’t enough. Effective charity listens to real needs, uses resources wisely, and measures results honestly. When giving is transparent and practical, it creates trust and lasting impact rather than short-term relief.

Meaningful relationships heal people. Real relationships require time, honesty, and responsibility. They aren’t about constant agreement or emotional performance. They’re about being dependable, speaking truthfully, and helping one another grow. These connections improve resilience and long-term well-being.

As we say at ELM, our community already holds the knowledge and resources for transformative charity. The path forward is simple: small, intentional steps toward relational and cohesive compassionate service.