MEET ELENA LITVINOV
Elena’s passion for helping others can be traced back to her pre-professional days, when she interned at the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Atlanta. She visited newly resettled refugees in their home and mentored several Burmese families with young children after office hours. Whether helping to take care of her 3 younger siblings or starting a community shoe drive for refugees, she’s always been passionate about giving back. More recently, Elena started a partnership with Computers 2 Kids (local San Diego non-profit) and her company, Oram Cybersecurity Advisors, to make sure all her client’s used computers don’t end up in a landfill. Instead, they are refurbished and given to families in need nationwide.
Outside of the office, Elena’s kids, Luke (6) and Chloe (3), keep her very busy. Her husband, Eugene works for Hyundai, which is how they ended up in California. Previously, she’s enjoyed living in Nashville, Chicago, Atlanta, Germany and Japan. Eugene’s career in the auto industry has taken them all over the world. Elena loves traveling, but it’s nice to finally call Huntington Beach home.
We asked Elena a few questions about her philanthropic career. Check out her answers below!
Where did you grow up and what did you accomplish during your early years?
I was born in Michigan (grew up in Indiana) and grew up in the country (Amish county-very rural with lots of corn fields!). I earned my BA International Studies & Spanish from Bradley. I’ve also lived in Germany and Japan.
In your spare time, what hobbies or experiences do you partake in?
I love traveling, rock climbing (indoor and the outside), yoga and listening to podcasts and reading books (I’m part of the Impact Giving Book Club).
Do you have any personal goals you hope to achieve in the next few years?
Right now, I’m focused on building my career after being a full time Mom and living a nomadic lifestyle for the past decade.
How are you involved in the nonprofit community?
I started a shoe fundraiser for Nova Ukraine and collected thousands of shoes in my garage last year. We raised money and helped give people’s shoes a second chance to help others start a new life.
This year I partnered with Computers 2 Kids to host an event at Old World Village where we collected used electronics/computers. They will be refurbished and given to refugees and help families who can’t afford their own.
Why did you join Impact Giving and what is your favorite part about being a Partner?
The Women! I’ve met some amazing people in just the few months I’ve been involved. It feels great to be surrounded by others who also believe in giving back.