Our Mission & Story

At RISE, we believe trauma may shape a story — but it doesn't define the ending.

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RISE was born from the belief that every survivor deserves more than survival. They deserve healing, dignity, and the chance to write a new chapter rooted in hope, strength, and self-worth.

Our Mission

Our mission is to break the generational cycles of abuse and trauma that have silenced far too many. We ignite healing and inspire empowerment — not just for survivors, but for their families and communities.

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Through holistic programs, trusted partnerships, and survivor-led initiatives, RISE offers more than services — we offer sanctuary. A path forward.

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We see every survivor not as broken, but as brave. And we walk beside them as they reclaim their power, rewrite their story, and rise into the life they deserve.

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How RISE Began

In 2006, a survivor found the courage to escape. Fifteen years later, after a compassionate dental hygienist offered care without cost or judgment, a vision was born: every survivor should experience this kind of dignity.

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One act of kindness at Pure Smiles in Westerville became the seed for something bigger—a movement that would transform how communities support survivors.

In 2021, RISE Foundation was established to ensure no survivor walks their healing journey alone.

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RISE in 2025: Expanding Our Reach

As RISE continues to grow, 2025 marks a year of transformative expansion with initiatives designed to provide holistic healing, skill-building, and empowerment:

• Survivor Days – Safe, supportive spaces for healing activities, including community groups, self-defense training, yoga, and art therapy

• Empowerment Workshops – Programs focused on personal and professional development to help survivors regain confidence and independence

• Community Training & Advocacy – Workshops for businesses, salons, and organizations to recognize, support, and advocate for survivors

• Healing Through Movement & Expression – Yoga, mindfulness, and art therapy to help survivors reconnect with their bodies and reclaim their narratives

• Advocacy & Public Speaking – Leading honest conversations across communities, classrooms, and boardrooms

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Through these initiatives, RISE proves that healing is possible, transformation is within reach, and no one has to walk this path alone.​

RISE in 2025: Expanding Our Reach

As RISE continues to grow, 2025 marks a year of transformative expansion with initiatives designed to provide holistic healing, skill-building, and empowerment:

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• Survivor Days – Safe, supportive spaces for survivors to engage in healing activities, including community groups, self-defense training, yoga, and art therapy.

• Empowerment Workshops – Programs focused on personal and professional development to help survivors regain confidence and independence.

• Community Training & Advocacy – Workshops for businesses, salons, and organizations to recognize, support, and advocate for survivors.

• Healing Through Movement & Expression – Yoga, mindfulness, and art therapy to help survivors reconnect with their bodies, process emotions, and reclaim their narratives.

• Advocacy & Public Speaking – Rachel shares her story across communities, classrooms, and boardrooms, leading honest conversations and offering workshops for all ages.

Through these initiatives, RISE proves that healing is possible, transformation is within reach, and no one has to walk this path alone.

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Together, We RISE.​​

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RISE was born from a place of healing, compassion, and the belief that every trial can lead to a brighter tomorrow. Through our journey, we invite others to embrace healing and empowerment, one step at a time.

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Because what lives in the dark, dies in the light.

“God is within her. She will not fail.” - Psalm 46:5