🌸 In Loving Memory of Brookelyn Olivia Elias

November 5, 2004 – July 18, 2014

A Life of Joy, Love, and Light

Brookelyn Olivia Elias was a vibrant and deeply loved young girl from Gaines Township, Michigan. Though she was only 10 years old when her life was tragically cut short, Brookelyn’s spirit left a permanent mark on everyone who knew her.

She was known for her joyful heart, infectious giggle, and an instinctive kindness that made her wise beyond her years. She often looked out for younger children, offered encouragement to classmates, and had a way of making everyone feel seen and valued. Her family lovingly referred to her as “Giggles” and “Hazelnut,” affectionate nicknames that capture both her playful nature and sweet spirit.

Brookelyn loved playing outside, especially with her siblings. She adored animals and could often be found doting on pets and frogs alike. She was also a strong soccer player, playing defense with fierce determination for six years—a passion that would later shape her family’s efforts to give back.

She was more than a child; she was a light. A child of deep empathy, joyful faith, and a natural leader in her own quiet way.

Who Brookelyn Was

  • 🌼 Joyful: Her laugh could light up a room. She found delight in the little things and made others feel better just by being near.

  • ⚽ Dedicated: She was a passionate soccer player, known for her defense and determination. Her team spirit and sportsmanship were unmatched.

  • 🧡 Compassionate: From mentoring students with special needs to comforting friends on the playground, Brookelyn always looked for ways to help.

  • 📖 Inquisitive: She loved to read, ask questions, and learn. She was deeply thoughtful and often surprised adults with her insights.

  • 👧 Big Sister at Heart: Whether it was helping her siblings or watching out for friends, Brookelyn had a natural instinct to lead with kindness.

  • 🙏 Faith-Filled: Raised in a home centered in faith, Brookelyn’s understanding of love, grace, and service was already taking root in her young life.

A Heartbreaking Loss

On July 18, 2014, Brookelyn passed away in a tragic accident involving a golf cart while playing with her younger brother near their home. Her sudden loss devastated her family and community, but from their grief came a determination to make sure her memory would shine on.


💖 Turning Grief Into Purpose

The Birth of a Movement

In the painful days that followed, Brookelyn’s mother, Tonya Elias, felt a calling to transform her daughter's legacy into something life-giving. What began with a small donation of Brookelyn’s cleats soon became a larger mission. The Elias family began collecting and distributing soccer gear in Brookelyn’s honor, helping other children play the game she loved.

From that beginning, Blessed by Brookelyn and Brookelyn’s Thrifty Threads were born—a nonprofit committed to helping at-risk and court-involved youth in Kent County. Through clothing drives, community meals, mentorship, and life-skill development, the organization honors Brookelyn’s spirit by supporting other young people during their hardest moments.

🌍 Blessed by Brookelyn: A Living Legacy

Programs Inspired by Her Life:

  • Brookelyn’s Thrifty Threads: A resale store that provides job training and life skills to court-involved and at-risk teens.

  • Brookelyn Elias Opportunity Center: A safe space offering tutoring, meals, aftercare support, and mentoring for youth reentering their communities.

  • Athletic Donations: Hundreds of pairs of cleats, uniforms, and soccer balls have been given to local schools to keep kids engaged in sports.

  • Global and Local Outreach: From clothing missions in rural Liberia to supporting students in Grand Rapids, Brookelyn’s legacy now crosses borders.

Community Service & Mentorship

Teens are invited to complete service hours at the store, sorting donations, sharing meals, and building new habits in a structured, supportive environment.

Long-Term Vision

The organization aims to create paid internships, deeper mentorship programs, and youth-led community projects—all funded through the store and grant support.

🛠️ Where It Happens

  • 🏬 Brookelyn’s Thrifty Threads – Youth-focused resale store

  • 🏠 2890 Madison Ave SE, Grand Rapids – Youth Opportunity Center and donation HQ


🗓️ What’s Happening Now (2025)

  • ✅ Aftercare support for youth post-incarceration

  • ✅ Job training through the resale shop

  • ✅ Academic tutoring, meals, and mentoring

  • ✅ Athletic gear donations to local public schools

  • ✅ Clothing and hygiene drives for families in crisis

✨ Brookelyn’s Enduring Message

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6


Brookelyn’s story reminds us of the power of a single life to spark a movement of hope. Through every cleat donated, every teen mentored, every hug shared at the shop—Brookelyn lives on.

She reminds us that love never dies, and with courage and faith, loss can become a light.

💗 Join Us in Honoring Brookelyn

Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply sharing her story—you are part of keeping Brookelyn’s light alive.


Brookelyn's Thrifty Threads has transformed my life and helped me find my path in the community.

Jordan M.

A modern courthouse with large glass windows reflecting the surroundings. The entrance is marked with pillars displaying intricate designs. Several people are walking and gathering near the entrance, wearing formal and casual attire. The evening light casts warm tones on the building.
A modern courthouse with large glass windows reflecting the surroundings. The entrance is marked with pillars displaying intricate designs. Several people are walking and gathering near the entrance, wearing formal and casual attire. The evening light casts warm tones on the building.
A vibrant outdoor basketball court filled with people of various ages engaged in different activities. Some are playing basketball while others are standing and chatting. The court is surrounded by brightly painted walls in shades of pink, orange, and blue. A basketball hoop is mounted on the back wall, adding to the sports theme. A few people are sitting on stairs or using phones, creating a relaxed and social atmosphere.
A vibrant outdoor basketball court filled with people of various ages engaged in different activities. Some are playing basketball while others are standing and chatting. The court is surrounded by brightly painted walls in shades of pink, orange, and blue. A basketball hoop is mounted on the back wall, adding to the sports theme. A few people are sitting on stairs or using phones, creating a relaxed and social atmosphere.

★★★★★