Her Story
About Elissa
Elissa Cheatham serves as the presiding bishop and founder of Restoration Church of Hope International Fellowship, a role she has held while leading community efforts across four churches in Louisville, Kentucky. With 35 years in her field as a church leader, author, and business owner, she directs initiatives including a homeless shelter, Sunday feeding programs, holiday food baskets, and assistance for families impacted by fires. Cheatham earned associate degrees in 1998 and 2013, completed a fitness degree, and obtained certifications as a life coach and in community health work. She also completed 10 to 15 years of theological training with Bishop Apostles. Her work is guided by a commitment to honesty and integrity, and she attributes her success to putting God first in all things. As a former single mother of three children, Cheatham is passionate about expanding resources for single mothers through her roles in community health and leadership.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Elissa
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to believing in God in all things and putting Him first in everything that I've ever done.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Slow down and just give your time. Find something that you really have a passion for, and go for it.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Trust your village, those that are around you and those that have gone before you. Remember that we're gonna all make mistakes, but you learn from mistakes. Never try to do anything twice. If you're going through life and things not working out, get back up, keep moving, and strive forward.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The challenge is that there's not enough resources for single moms. That made me want to be a community health worker and leader to make sure there's more resources for single moms.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The morale is to be honest, have integrity, and to just be honest. The truth always, isn't been telling fibs and lies. Just be about who you are, that takes you further.
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