Class No. 52 graduates Elevate Work program

On Wednesday evening, March 12, proud families, friends and community partners gathered to watch the 52nd class of Elevate Work receive their certificates. Following the processional of graduates, instructor Doug Lay welcomed those in attendance and acknowledged several veterans present. 

Lay thanked class sponsor Brian Pendergrass, and student sponsors Tom and Sandy Center and Wynona Sanderlin. He also stressed the importance of the mentors who work with each student.  

Elevate Work was started in 2013 with the goal of helping neighbors break the cycle of chronic unemployment or underemployment. Classes are not easy—students must have good attendance and complete weekly assignments, and each student is paired with a mentor to encourage perseverance. Students also prepare a resumé, learn and practice interview skills, and hear from a panel of local business and professional people who share their own stories to encourage the students that their dream is possible. 

A video testimony of a previous graduate moved the audience to tears of appreciation, as Amanda shared her story of coming to Elevate Branson several years ago after serving time in prison related to drugs. Every student is encouraged to “find their why,” and for Amanda, her “why” included staying clean and regaining custody of her baby girl. “This program taught me I was worth something,” she shared in the video. Following the video, Amanda and her daughter were introduced in person, to rousing applause. 

Brian Pendergrass, class sponsor, was also the featured speaker for the evening. He shared his own testimony of wanting to move forward from a discouraging past and being offered a job, working hard, and eventually becoming owner of the company, Sacred Rose Healthcare. He is also active in a Springfield church. “You’ll have to work hard to make it happen,” he told the graduates, “but God will help you.” 

Other advice Pendergrass offered the graduates included spending time with God daily; remembering your “why,” being kind and honest and treating others how you want to be treated; dedication to excellence; and keeping in touch with a supportive community such as Elevate Branson. 

Graduates were then called to the platform in turn to receive their certificates and a packet of resources, including their resumé developed during class. Each graduate shared briefly, as did their mentors who were unanimous in saying they benefited from the experience as much as the students. 

“I can talk to people more confidently now, to keep learning things and better my skill set,” shared Timothy. 

“He’s a walking, talking model of perseverance,” shared Jeff, mentor of Justin, who was enrolled in college classes concurrently with Elevate Work. The two found mutual inspiration and encouragement in the work/faith relationship during their time together. 

The following students received their certificates at the graduation: 

●      Justin Merrill

●      Austin Nipper

●      Suzanne Larson

●      Lasondra Doshier

●      Joshua Walker

●      Tim Sexton

●      Kay Varley

●      Chad Seidberg

●      Bryan Barnes (not pictured)

Following the presentation of certificates, program director Donna McConkey took the mic to thank all the behind-the-scenes personnel who help make Elevate Work happen: thrift shop workers who help graduates select career clothing; business panel members; and individual donors of treats, gifts and financial support. The evening wrapped up with a reception featuring cake, gift bags and plenty of congratulations. 

Are you interested in improving your skills and preparing yourself for success in the workplace, or do you know someone who could benefit from this program? While some, like Amanda, need to rebuild from a troubled past, other students have found the program helpful in learning to go after a promotion or a new career dream; one student in the recent class wanted to supplement her retirement income by pursuing new opportunities. 

Learn more at https://elevatebranson.org/elevate-work/, where you can find more details and application information. Get ready to change your life now!