Nonprofit Spotlight: Elms Family & Community Services
Founded in 2018, Elms Family & Community Services is dedicated to strengthening individuals and families across Macomb County by addressing barriers that impact economic stability, education and quality of life. The organization was founded by Kimberly Elms, president and CEO, following a deeply personal journey that shaped both its mission and the holistic approach guiding its work today.
After transitioning from a career in higher education, Elms felt called to serve individuals and families facing persistent challenges, particularly those impacted by trauma, limited access to resources and other barriers. Her vision was further shaped by the tragic loss of her husband and a desire to intervene earlier in people’s lives, before circumstances escalate into long-term hardship. That commitment became the foundation for Elms Family & Community Services, which supports youth, adults and seniors through direct services, programs and community outreach.
Elms Family & Community Services operates with one part-time employee and a volunteer staff. The organization also leverages partnerships, internships and community collaborations to maximize its impact. Services are provided at no cost and are designed to support individuals who may fall below, or just above, the poverty line, including ALICE households, who often struggle to access resources.
“Collaboration is essential,” said Elms. “You can’t serve effectively alone. When we work together and look at the whole person, youth, adults and seniors, we can create meaningful, lasting change.”
The organization’s direct services include case management for youth and adults facing barriers related to housing, employment, education or financial stability. Support may include budgeting assistance, resume development, workforce training, help accessing higher education or emergency assistance such as food, clothing and hygiene items. The organization also supports families through seasonal initiatives, including back-to-school supply drives and its Adopt-A-Family program.
In addition to direct services, Elms Family & Community Services offers college and career exposure programs, working closely with Mount Clemens Community Schools and other partners to support middle school, high school and college-bound students. Services include FAFSA assistance, college and scholarship applications, resume development and career exploration. Students may also participate in internships that provide hands-on experience while earning community service hours.
The organization’s outreach efforts include a senior food program in partnership with Gleaners Community Food Bank and a food distribution program in collaboration with the Macomb County Food Bank.
One story that illustrates the organization’s impact involves a Mount Clemens high school student who was excelling academically but had not yet begun the college planning process. Elms first met the student and her mother at a college event, which led to ongoing follow-up and support. The student and her mother diligently attended every summer college-planning session hosted by Elms. When the student was unable to attend, the mother ensured that follow-up was done to obtain the information missed, or virtual meetings were scheduled with the two of them.
During the student’s senior year, Elms stayed closely involved, working one-on-one with the student and her mother. Elms worked with the family for FAFSA support and provided the necessary resources for the student to begin the college and scholarship application processes. Ultimately, the student enrolled at Oakland University, earning nearly a full scholarship and acceptance into the university’s honors college. This is a powerful example of how early guidance and consistent support can change a young person’s path.
Elms Family & Community Services has also been an active participant in Advancing Macomb’s programs, including the Nonprofit Accelerator Program. Through the program, the organization secured additional grants and sponsorships, created formal development and marketing plans and implemented a new customer relationship management (CRM) system to more effectively manage donors, prospects, funders and client relationships.
“The networking opportunities are ongoing,” said Elms. “Through Advancing Macomb’s Nonprofit Roundtable Series, there is learning, collaboration and resource sharing at every session. The team extends their support to nonprofits beyond networking meetings.”
Looking ahead, Elms Family & Community Services plans to expand its food programs; increase outreach in Warren, Eastpointe and other communities based on ALICE data; grow its internship offerings, particularly in social work and mental health; and expand its college and career planning programs for youth and adults.
“We want people to know we’re here,” said Elms. “If we can’t provide a service directly, we’ll help connect individuals to someone who can. Collectively, we can make a difference.”
To learn more about Elms Family & Community Services, access services or get involved through volunteering or partnerships, visit www.elmsfamilyandcommunityservices.org or call 313-398-9445.
