December 15, 2021
Elite Electronic Engineering has a long history of commitment, not just to the industry it’s been part of for 67 years, but also to the local and global community.
Several years ago, Elaine Russo, Elite’s finance manager, learned of the Marine Toys for Tots program that collects toys for children in need. Toys for Tots is a foundation with roots dating to 1947 whose mission is to make the holiday season brighter for children. Driven by her passion for giving to others, Elaine led the charge at Elite to set up a toy donation site at Elite’s Downers Grove lab.
Over the past month, hundreds of new toys for all ages have been collected and brought to the site by Elite’s employees, its customers, its contractors, and the public.
Adding to its long history of community engagement, Elite teamed up with Home Pride Services of Lisle, Illinois to raise funds for the Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans (MSHV). Home Pride is one of Elite’s contractors and a long-time partner in benevolent work. The MSHV is a support agency for those who have served in the military.
Over $1000 in clothing and necessary supplies were purchased and donated by Elite, its employees, and partners. Elite also collected a large box of warm-weather clothing and other miscellaneous supplies for veterans in need.
Elite’s Senior EMC Technician and Army veteran Craig Bowes also support the Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans and other veteran causes by donating the proceeds from his beekeeping and craft winemaking hobbies to local vets. Craig’s skill as a vintner is evident in the Cabernet Sauvignon, Amarone, Spiced Merlot, Chardonnet, Pinot Grigio, and Sauvignon Blanc that he produced for the fundraiser. And as an added benefit, the fresh honey and artisanal wine have been keenly enjoyed by Elite’s employees!
Elite’s Kathy Barri adds to the benevolent work by making stylish Covid-necessary facemasks for staff, visitors, friends, and family. Kathy has volunteered her time to make over 2000 masks, which she has used to raise over $2800 for colon cancer research and in the name of Elite’s late Dan Crowder.
The Elite family appreciates the heartfelt work of Elaine, Kathy, and Craig for their generous gifts of time, passion, and hard work. We also appreciate our employees, customers, and our partners for their generous donations to these and many other great causes. Our heartfelt thanks go out to all.
As we approach the closing weeks of 2021, Elite wishes everyone a happy holiday and good health in the new year.