“Words can never describe my gratitude for giving me the ability to thrive rather than simply survive,” said an Ellipsis alumna. It’s that statement, that impact, that we strive to make in the life of every single kid who walks through our doors. Whether it’s through behavioral health support, shelter services, meals or transition support, we approach every individual with kindness.
Kindness shapes the future of the youth we serve, not just through one act but through a series of interactions. It not only demonstrates empathy for the trauma or situations they’ve had to endure but also gives them something to emulate in their own lives. Kindness can be shown to others, and when the kids we work with show kindness and selflessness, it makes them feel better about themselves. It can bring joy, strength and fulfillment while helping them cope with their own challenges.
November Marks a Time of Gratitude
November is National Gratitude Month, a reminder to go beyond just saying thanks. It’s a time to reflect, be grateful and recognize the moments that have made a drastic impact on our lives. We appreciate the acts of kindness and giving that allow Ellipsis to provide important services to youth and families across central Iowa.
We have served more than 750 kids given residential assistance to more than 300 youths, and supported kids and families through more than 2,000 therapy sessions. We are grateful for every opportunity to guide young people on their journey to thrive in life.
Helping kids and families find ways to express gratitude is an important part of how we serve them. A review of 64 studies in Psychology Today found that children and teens who practice gratitude experience better mental health and less depression and anxiety. It also builds optimism and resilience. Looking for positives in life gives them the ability to find hope and joy, creating the opportunity for a long-term positive outcome.
Kindness in Action at Ellipsis
“I felt like something was missing, that my heart was missing, that everything was missing inside of me. I did find my heart when Lou helped me take care of people,” said an Ellipsis alumnus.
For some kids who walk through our doors, kindness isn’t something they’ve experienced or learned how to show. Through the behavioral health support Ellipsis provides, we help them develop emotional regulation, communication and social skills. With these abilities, kindness can become a key part of their everyday lives. That allows them to better handle their emotions, have positive interactions with others, gain a sense of fulfillment and create positive behaviors that put them on a path to a successful future. It’s this kindness in action that Ellipsis takes pride in fostering among the youth and families we serve.
Kindness in Your Life
Kindness doesn’t start when youth walk through our doors, and our goal is to make sure it doesn’t end when they move on from our services. Acts of kindness can boost confidence, improve happiness and help people feel more connected to those around them. The Kids Mental Health Foundation offers several ways to teach the kids in your life to be kind too.
- Model kindness
- Give praise
- Teach empathy
- Encourage inclusivity
- Create kindness routines
- Volunteer
- Explain the impact of kindness
Giving Lifts the Services Ellipsis Provides
Support for Ellipsis is not one-size-fits-all. People can donate financially, volunteer their time, contribute food or even attend one of our events throughout the year.
One of our biggest events, TEEllipsis ’26: The Ellipsis Eighteen, made history in 2026 thanks to your generosity. This year’s tournament and virtual auction raised more than $161,000 for Ellipsis, setting a fundraising record for the fourth consecutive year. That money helps move our mission forward, funding services for kids and families that empower them to build a better future.
Philanthropy doesn’t rest at Ellipsis. Led by Chief Philanthropy Officer Chris Andersen, we continue to connect organizations and community members with our mission, supporting the needs of the kids and families we serve. “It’s not just a matter of knocking on a door, asking folks to write a check. It’s relationships first and foremost,” said Andersen. You can read more about Chris’ work driving philanthropy for Ellipsis here [hyperlink here with the staff spotlight link].
Just as important as financial contributions, volunteers play a vital role in our operations. Serving meals at one of our campuses, working on special projects or taking on other jobs with Ellipsis supports our mission and offers a feeling of fulfillment from knowing you are helping the youth we serve. Volunteer with us today: EllipsisIowa.org/get-involved/volunteer/.
We Can’t Do This Without You
Simply put, THANK YOU! Without your support, Ellipsis wouldn’t be able to provide shelter, mental health services and more to the kids and families in central Iowa. We never take for granted the opportunity to serve these young people. Through generous donations of money and time, we can give them a place where they experience compassion and kindness, receive the assistance they need, and build the strength to work toward the positive future that awaits them. If you’d like to help us continue this work, please donate: EllipsisIowa.org/get-involved/donate/.
Visit EllipsisIowa.org to donate or volunteer today and help us support kids and families in central Iowa.
