On Tuesday, Sept. 1, a crowd gathered in the grassy lot south of the former Robberson School building to celebrate the start of construction on Elevate Heights, a new 21‑unit apartment building aimed at low‑income families in north Springfield.
Faith‑Driven Mission
The project is being led by the faith‑based nonprofit Elevate Lives, which was founded in 2007 by Republican activist Russ Gosselin. Gosselin, who is running for the state House District 132 seat, said the development reflects a long‑standing vision to provide safe, affordable homes where families can grow together and support one another.
“Today is really an exciting day. This is one of those days you plan for, hope for and dream about for years,” Gosselin told attendees.
Beyond Housing
In addition to the first 21‑unit building, Elevate Lives plans a second identical structure, bringing the total to 42 apartments. The former 42,000‑square‑foot Robberson elementary school campus will be transformed into the Elevate Center, offering residents resources such as education, job training, recovery programs and other supportive services.
Community Voices
Former Springfield Zone 1 councilwoman Phyllis Ferguson praised the project, recalling an earlier “little house up on High Street” that helped a family get a fresh start. “That is what cracks my heart, knowing it gave her a new chance for a new kind of life,” she said.
Elevate Lives participant Kyler Dennis, who once struggled with addiction, shared his personal journey. After entering a faith‑based sober‑living program, he met Gosselin, gained custody of his daughter, started a business and welcomed a baby girl. “Russ stood by and supported my family every step of the way,” Dennis said, adding that the new development will further strengthen the north‑side community.
Financial Support
Aaron Rains of Hawthorn Bank presented a ceremonial $3 million check on behalf of the Federal Home Loan Bank to fund the project. Rains called Gosselin “a man of integrity and faith” and said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to helping families become independent.
State Rep. Melanie Stinnett also thanked supporters, noting that “a project like this really doesn’t happen just because of one person or organization. It happens when people share a vision, stay committed through a long planning process, and believe in what’s possible for families and for this community.”
Looking Ahead
When completed, Elevate Heights and the Elevate Center will provide much‑needed affordable housing and a hub of resources for north Springfield residents, embodying the nonprofit’s mission to lift families out of poverty and into stability.
Original reporting: Springfield Daily Citizen — read the source article.
