When "Little Miracles" Bring About Lasting Change: Insights from ELM Participants.

By: Traci Harris, Case Manager

At the ELM Foundation, we are all about creating "little miracles" for those who are eager to work, grow, and unlock their full potential. We offer gap funding grants to support higher education and workforce development certifications. Every participant in our program is on their own special journey, striving to reach their goals and build a brighter future for themselves and their families. We believe in helping everyone become self-sufficient and thrive!

As we look back on 2025, we celebrate the insights and experiences that each of our current 46 ELM participants brings to their personal growth journeys. We recently asked each of them this question: "How has the ELM grant changed what you thought was possible for yourself and your future?" Here are some of their heartfelt and inspiring responses:

Chezare, “I am so grateful for the ELM Grant. It has expanded my sense of what I can achieve both academically and professionally. It has shown me that my future can include stability and purpose, and I am motivated to keep pushing toward the career I see for myself.” 

Ethan, “The ELM grant has changed my life in many ways. It has helped me realize that there are people who care and want me to succeed, that I am not alone in my efforts. This has helped me to look forward to the future and to recognize that good things are coming.” 

Moses, "I have the faith that obtaining a degree is possible. It is because my friends at ELM believe in me more than my situation and help me to become who I can be. I believe this opportunity can open more doors."

Pricilla, "I am most grateful to The ELM Foundation for allowing me to be the best I can. With the ELM grant, my sense of what I can achieve has expanded. It relieves enough financial pressure for me to focus on my education, my internship, and my long-term goals instead of just trying to get by. It shows me that I am deserving of support, and I now believe that opportunities are not out of my reach; they are real and attainable."

 Rachel, “Receiving the ELM grant has helped me realize that so much is obtainable. Life changes when you set your mind on your goals, work your hardest to achieve them, and remember that it's okay to need help sometimes and to reach out to others. Having a community is one of the greatest things about being human, and the ELM grant has just shown me another facet of that community.”

We are honored to be on this journey with amazing individuals who are committed to making positive changes in their lives. But we can't do it without your help! If you’re interested in supporting someone as they work towards self-sufficiency through education and career training, we would be thrilled to have you join us. Your support can make a real difference!      

                     Consider donating today at www.elmshsv.org or scan this QR code 

100% of your donation will benefit the 'little miracles' grant program!