It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Elyse Martell (Maria Elisa), beloved mother of Bricks for Good’s founder, Lee Barber.
Even as a disabled single mother living on a limited income, Elyse always made sure her two sons had plenty of LEGO sets under the tree each Christmas. Her selflessness, lifelong faith in Jesus, and belief in the power of play helped inspire the founding of Bricks for Good. Her two sons were the pride and joy of her life.
She taught her children the importance of values like love, discipline, and service to others, which helped shape their lives and the foundation of this organization.
To honor her legacy, we are proud to announce that our Bricks for Good Scholarship Fund will now bear her name. This fund supports students pursuing college degrees in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math)—fields that encourage building, problem-solving, and innovation.
Her legacy lives on in every child we serve, in every LEGO set we give, and now, in every student we support for many years to come.
Thank you for being part of the community that continues to build joy, just as she did.