There are many motivators for volunteering and giving back. For Lewis and RoseMarie Abraham, their faith is one of their biggest motivators. “We believe in giving God’s way, and that is why we are so passionate about serving,” says Lewis. “We can never beat God giving, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t at least make an effort.”

Lewis and RoseMarie have spent the last four years supporting various nonprofits, including the Gainesville nonprofit Good News at Noon, through their church, Elevating Faith Ministries Inc. Now, however, the couple is ready to take the next step by launching their own 501(c)(3) nonprofit, LIFT and Restore Foundation. “We started LIFT and Restore Foundation so we could have a much broader reach than the church does,” says Lewis.

LIFT and Restore Foundation will aim to assist people with a variety of needs through a food pantry, a mentoring and leadership academy specializing in STEM-based education, and a clothing bank to provide business attire for interviewees. In addition, Lewis and RoseMarie plan to host a monthly LIFT day of service to raise awareness for those in need.

Lewis and RoseMarie are aided in their mission by their four adult children, Brianna, Jalen, Malik and Duke, as well as Duke’s wife, Ashley. The Abrahams are seeking further support from their community, especially their Chateau Elan neighbors. Those interested in supporting LIFT and Restore Foundation can do so by attending the nonprofit’s fundraising gala on July 20, 2024, at the venue behind Publix on Spout Springs Road. “Tickets are $50 or $25 for ages 12 through 18, with all proceeds going to support the foundation,” says Lewis. “More information can be found at our website, elevatingfaith.org/liftandrestore. Please contact Rose at firstladyrose@elevatingfaith.org if you would like to volunteer or provide items for our silent auction. If you would like to be a sponsor, that information is also found on the website.”