On June 2, we proudly opened our doors to families in Bessemer through a collaborative partnership with Serving You Ministries and Flint Hill Baptist Church. When we first began serving the East Lake community in 2010, our focus was on the eastern side of the city. With the launch of our family-centered coaching strategy in 2018, ELI recognized that our model was not only replicable—but urgently needed across Birmingham. This year, we joyfully realized that vision with the opening of our second location in Bessemer.

Our Bessemer site is modeled after our East Lake office and co-located with Serving You Ministries, allowing families to access food and utility assistance alongside coaching services. This fall, the space was beautifully renovated thanks to a joint grant awarded to Serving You Ministries and ELI by One Hundred Shares Birmingham, along with generous support from anonymous donors. The result is a warm, welcoming environment designed to foster growth and connection.

The office includes three private coaching rooms and a classroom where families gather for monthly coaching sessions, as well as financial literacy and parenting classes. Led by Site Director Wendy Thompson and Thrive Coaches Hallie Brown and Shalanda Cheatham, the Bessemer team is currently serving 42 families. Families interested in joining our Bessemer program are invited to complete the “Need Help” form on our website.

We will also be hosting an open house on January 30, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and we would love for you to join us as we celebrate this exciting new chapter.