Meet Marissa – A HOPE Packs Story

August 4, 2025

Elim’s impact reaches beyond the walls of our campus. Our mission would not be successful without the opportunity to serve those within our community. Our HOPE Packs program impacts those all over the United States (as well as some other countries), but it also touches the lives of those closest to our own homes.

“I first heard about Elim through a presentation at one of our local churches,” says Marissa. “I loved that Elim gave support services and employment opportunities to youth and adults with disabilities. It aligns with our mission.”

Marissa is the Program Coordinator with Outreach Carol Stream at the Villagebrook Apartments. Outreach provides transitional housing, employment opportunities, youth programs, and other assistance to community members.

She has been a strong partner with our HOPE Packs program and has created an event through Outreach called the Back to School Bash.

“With the funds we raise from our local churches, we team up with Elim to provide the HOPE Pack School Kits.” This event includes the whole community, from the local police department, which supplies backpacks for students, to other local churches fundraising to provide food and beverages for all who attend.

“It provides dignity to the families at Villagebrook because these kids don’t show up to the first day of school empty-handed. They show up with brand new school supplies,” Marissa shares.

Because of the Elim community’s support, HOPE Packs can give students the supplies they need to thrive academically.

“We are super happy and grateful that we can partner with Elim.”

Want to spread more HOPE? Donate to HOPE Packs today!