December 19, 2019

Tiffany Lilly-Essix is a customer service representative at City of Lubbock Utilities (COLU). Since she joined in 2018, she takes time to develop a rapport with customers while helping address their concerns and answer questions.

Her dedication to helping others extends beyond work to her many volunteer efforts, including creating two events: March of Life and Holidays for the Homeless.

Lilly-Essix grew up with four brothers and sisters and was raised by a single father who worked tirelessly to make sure his children were fed, clothed and attended school and church. Lilly-Essix says he instilled the value of giving back to the community in all of his children, something she’s passing down to her three children and more than 20 nieces and nephews.

“I grew up in East Lubbock and have seen youth violence and other issues increase, while opportunities for success seem to decrease,” said Lilly-Essix.

About four years ago, her experience led her to start a Facebook group to raise awareness about youth violence and promote life and prosperity for younger generations. The group quickly grew into a movement, and with the help of the East Lubbock Community Alliance, the March of Life was born.

“With three children of my own, I want to help the community support its youth and give them the chance to follow their dreams.”

The holiday season signals an especially important time for giving for Lilly-Essix. Following the loss of her sister and nephew in 2005, she experienced an outpouring of support from the community. She was again inspired to help others in need, and she created an annual Holidays for the Homeless event.

In addition to serving a hot holiday meal to those experiencing homelessness, Lilly-Essix and other volunteers assemble and give away holiday gift bags filled with essentials like socks, hats, gloves, toothpaste, toothbrushes and bottled water. This year’s Holidays for the Homeless will take place on Dec. 14.

“I believe it’s my duty to lead by example to help our community thrive,” said Lilly-Essix. “I’m thankful for God and the support of my husband and kids,” said Lilly-Essix. “Without their support, none of this would be possible.”