Gaining a Voice, Building Confidence – Presley’s Story

August 15, 2025

“Being a parent for a child with a disability is the most overwhelming job I could ever think of, but Elim provides that support,” shares Caitlin, Presley’s mom. “When you are feeling that isolation and feeling like it is a lot, the staff at Elim gives you that breath of fresh air that you are not in this alone, and we will figure this out.”

Presley is nine years old and just finished her first year as a student in Elim’s Pathways program. After spending a few years in a private school setting, a family friend introduced Caitlin to Elim and encouraged her to consider it for Presley.

Before coming to Elim, Presley struggled with her communication skills and being able to advocate for herself. Since she is non-verbal, her ability to communicate is central to her growth as an individual, and it is important for her family to see her strengthen those skills.

Making sure students have a voice in their wants and needs is something Elim staff strive to see happen every day. Through communication devices and different therapies, like Friday community outings to local businesses, Presley has been given a voice and is gaining confidence in her skills.

“Whatever a student might need, Elim has it covered,” Caitlin says. “For any different kind of learning, they have come up with the best solution and have incorporated it into the daily curriculum.”

After one year at Elim, Presley’s personality is shining through more every day. Her happy, determined, and loving personality is helping her be more open to receptive communication and teaching her patience.

“Even on Presley’s hardest days, she’s looking for something to laugh at or find joy in.”

Elim isn’t just helping Presley grow in the classroom – it’s shaping her future in her community. It’s helping her build meaningful bonds, and it’s giving her tools to advocate for herself, express her needs, and one day, live with more independence and confidence.

For Presley’s mom, it’s more than progress. It’s peace of mind.

Whether it’s helping her mom push the cart at Costco with “great intent” (as Caitlin tells us) or patiently waiting in line to grab a Slurpee at a trampoline park with her sister, these small victories are life-changing for Presley and her family. We are so excited to see how she will continue to thrive at Elim and beyond!

Because of your generosity, our students receive the tools and resources that they need to thrive. Can you give today and equip over 400 students and adults at Elim to pursue their God-given potential?