It’s not uncommon for foster parents and Saint Francis employees to describe our work as a vocation. The satisfaction we derive from our job largely stems from a desire to improve the lives of others and to help play a small part in making the world better. Few exemplify that notion better than Tiffany Lilly-Essix, a family support worker in the Lubbock Independent Living program. Tiffany was recently named one of Lubbock’s “Remarkable Women” by KLBK News for her work with the nonprofit organization she founded nearly 20 years ago in honor of her sister, Brittany, and nephew, Devin.
Brittany and Devin’s Angels was born in 2006, following the deaths of its namesake in a tragic house fire. Another sister of Tiffany’s was severely burned in the same fire, so the task of arranging a funeral and leading her family through the valley of tears fell to Tiffany, the youngest of her siblings. Yet, thanks to the generosity of a person within the community, a stranger to her family, Tiffany was able to provide a proper burial for her loved ones. Tiffany then vowed that she would pay that gift forward by helping youth and adults learn essential life skills at low or no cost, if possible. Brittany and Devin’s Angels arose from that promise.
Today, the nonprofit offers comprehensive mentorship programs that serve young people. Tiffany and her team focus on fostering positive personal development, cultivating resilience, and igniting a passion for lifelong learning. By connecting young people with compassionate mentors and offering a diverse array of educational and enrichment activities, they equip them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence essential for success in all areas of life. Brittany and Devin’s Angels also provides a Clothes Closet to kids in need and hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the Adopt-a-High School Senior Gift Basket and Resource Fair, Christmas Dinner and Gifts Blessing to Families, and Back-to-School Kick-Off.
In many ways, Tiffany’s work at Saint Francis is an extension of her work with Angels. Her extensive resource contacts enable her to assist her SFM clients through Brittany and Devin’s Angels as well.
“I can help place some SFM youth with jobs through my nonprofit, along with working with the schools to make sure they get their diploma and have access to other resources,” said Tiffany. “Our office is just right around the corner from Saint Francis, so we sometimes have kids visit the Clothes Closet.”
Some Saint Francis employees have likewise lent their hearts to the Angels mission.
“My director and supervisor have both been very supportive, giving me needed days off and opening their arms to my ‘other’ work. Nicole Banire, my director, helps a lot, volunteering at nearly every opportunity.”
Through her work with Brittany and Devin’s Angels, as well as with Saint Francis Ministries, Tiffany is changing lives in Lubbock. She definitely deserves the title “Remarkable Woman” … whether in Lubbock or anywhere else.
“Remarkable Women” is a nationwide initiative by Nexstar Media Group, Inc. (parent corporation of KLBK News), that honors the influence women have had on public policy, social progress, and quality of life within their communities. Every year in March, Nexstar celebrates Women’s History Month by highlighting local “Remarkable Women,” with participation across Nexstar’s more than 200 owned or partner stations in 116 U.S. markets, The CW Network, NewsNation, and The Hill.
Tiffany and her fellow “Remarkable Women” received a free trip to Los Angeles in April to attend a reception and awards ceremony and to see the sights.
Learn more about “Remarkable Women” and their trip at www.facebook.com/RemarkableWomenNXST/about.
Learn more about the work of Brittany and Devin’s Angels at www.brittanyanddevinsangeles.com.
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