Last Chance to Make a 2025 Gift to ELIJA!
The term “LEGACY” is a beautiful word. Its earliest Latin origins denote an “ambassador,” while later iterations define legacy as a body of persons on a mission. Several years ago, my father, Ory Giberstein, wrote a letter to ELIJA supporters telling his story about the challenges in which he grew up and raised our family. He discussed perseverance as a key to succeeding in life. Sadly, earlier this year, my father passed away, leaving a great “legacy” of love, strength, and determination. Through his generosity and desire to help others, he became our ambassador, our person on a mission to see ELIJA evolve and thrive. That spirit is truly his legacy.
To solidify his legacy, Dad wanted others to support our mission alongside him, so as part of his legacy, he set aside estate funds for us to use for a matching gift challenge: all gifts up to $10,000.00 will be matched dollar for dollar. By giving to this challenge, all who support ELIJA leave their own legacy. Over the years, your gifts have helped subsidize our remarkable work to help our learners who have come through our programs, some of whom have been with us for many years. Let me introduce you to two of those learners:
Andy came to us 11 years ago after not being able to remain in his school due to significant behaviors. Despite limited verbal skills (which he did not use), enrolling in ELIJA allowed him to develop the verbal skills necessary to communicate his needs and wants. Over time, he learned to socialize and build relationships, ask for what he wants, and just be happy. Today, and still involved in our Farm classes, Andy is now partly self-sufficient and holds a job for which he is quite proud. Amazing progress due to ELIJA’s efforts.
Being non-verbal and not able to easily express her needs, Courtney’s behaviors were exacerbated by her frustration. Having come to us 10 years ago, she has learned many self-care skills and safely communicates her needs in the company of others. Best of all, she now enjoys a more serene and happy relationship with her mother. Courtney is currently enrolled as a full-time student in our TPS Program (Transitional Programs & Services).
If you have never made a gift before, now is the best time to make one. Become a monthly recurring donor so your gifts continuously support our programs throughout the year. If you are a loyal donor, we thank you and hope you will consider increasing your annual gift this year, adding to that Legacy that my father so movingly desired to see continue. Remember, your gifts automatically double for an even greater impact on ELIJA, and I know that would truly please Ory. Please use the enclosed form to make your gift today.
Thank you for your generous support, and I wish you peace and blessings this Holiday Season and through the New Year!
With Love,
Deb Thivierge
We believe in hope and hard work; that all children (or adults) with Autism deserve a chance, and their families our commitment, expertise and support. With the help of your funds and through the efforts of our Foundation and our School we strive to make a difference:
Championing Hope, One Child at a Time.
