Elissa: The Right Volunteer at the Right Time

Elissa had more than a decade of experience mentoring children and young adults when she became aware of NCS in early 2020. NCS Board Member Jan Golann invited Elissa to Celebrating Innovation, NCS’s young professional group’s event.

Elissa lived in China for two years and returned to New York City at the end of 2019 as COVID-19 began spreading. She was excited to get back to mentoring, and Jan thought she might enjoy learning more about NCS.

“I felt a calling while at the event,” Elissa shared. “I was especially moved when [Louis Nine House resident] Dawson spoke about relying on ‘one trusted adult.’” For Dawson, that adult was Options Vocational Coordinator Elizabeth McGuire, but Elissa knew that she could play that role for someone else.

Elissa followed up with Elizabeth about mentoring a client, but just weeks after Celebrating Innovation, COVID-19 was spreading, and New York City was shut down.

Neither Elizabeth nor Elissa was deterred. Elizabeth knew after speaking with Elissa that she wanted to pair her with Muray. “I just knew their personalities would click,” Elizabeth explained.

Muray, an aspiring fashion designer, was looking to transfer from community college to a 4-year institution and had her heart set on SUNY’s Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). Elissa began working with her in the Spring, first meeting via zoom and then by phone. With Elissa’s help, Muray completed her application, attended admissions events, practiced networking, developed a portfolio, and worked on her resume to begin applying for internships.

“Muray is incredibly ambitious, talented, and driven. She is aspirational and committed to putting in the work to make her dream a reality. She’s a breath of fresh air and in a really great place for the next FIT application cycle.”

“Elissa helped me find my way.” Muray shared. “She has been so helpful in walking me through the application process for FIT and goes above and beyond to assist me in focusing on my goals. I am so thankful to her.”

We agree! Thank you, Elissa, for helping Muray move forward on her path to success. 

Read more about Muray and how she set out to sew masks for those who can't afford them during the COVID-19 pandemic.