836 In-Prison Program Graduates and Counting
Our 10th In-Prison Program cohort at the Omaha Correctional Center (OCC) was a huge success!
On April 16th, 2025 18 participants confidently pitched their business ideas to 37 community volunteers (!!!) and crossed the graduation stage with purpose. RISE has now celebrated 836 In-Prison Program graduates and counting!
Without internet access inside the facility, our participants don’t have the tools to conduct modern, in-depth research on their own. We are so grateful for the online research volunteers who provided more than just information, but a powerful boost to helped them shine. Their behind-the-scenes work made a visible impact and contributed to some of the strongest business pitches we’ve seen to date.
A special shout-out to the incredible volunteer Business Pitch Judging teams from FNBO and Dundee Bank! Your thoughtful questions and expert insights brought real-world perspective and encouragement into the room.
We’re so grateful for the role you played in this milestone. Thank you!
Do you want to recruit a group of volunteers like FNBO and Dundee Bank? Learn more here!
And the Business Pitch Competition Winners Are…
1st Place: Jared - Scoopy Doo
2nd Place: Jacob - HeaTech
3rd Place: Steven - Birds of a Feather Outdoor Services
4th Place: Matthew - All Home Securities
5th Place: David - Elder Brudir Mobile BBQ
Peer Favorite: Jared - Scoopy Doo
Family Favorite: David - Elder Brudir Mobile BBQ
Withness Award: Steven
Valedictorian: Nathaniel
Graduated with Distinction: Brayden
Other Highlights
You might have noticed our graduates looking sharp in dress shirts and ties! That’s thanks to RISE’s OCC Program Associate, Jon Consolver, who advocated for participants to wear business attire for the big day. As Jon put it, “If you look good, you feel good”...and with support from the facility, he helped make that happen. And we have to say, they truly looked and felt the part!
As a thank-you and special wedding gift for Jon, our resident Detroit Lions superfan, the cohort surprised him with a heartfelt speech and a custom drawing created by the incredibly talented artist, Brayden. It was a thoughtful and memorable gesture that truly reflected their appreciation.
Why In-Prison Programs?
Rehabilitation programs in prison, like those offered by RISE, are essential because they help break the generational cycles of incarceration by equipping individuals with the tools, mindset, and support they need to successfully reenter society.
They reduce recidivism. Programs that focus on character development, job readiness, and entrepreneurship help people build meaningful goals and reduce their likelihood of returning to prison.
They create safer communities. When incarcerated individuals gain emotional intelligence, conflict resolution skills, and a sense of purpose, it benefits not just them but everyone around them…inside and outside prison walls.
They restore dignity and hope. Rehabilitation reminds people that they are so much more than their past. It helps them rediscover their strengths, reconnect with their loved ones, and envision a better future.
They save public resources. Empowering someone to rebuild their life is more cost-effective than repeated incarceration. It shifts the focus from punishment to long-term change.
They foster second chances. At RISE, we see transformation happen every day. When someone learns how to pitch a business idea, reunites with their child, or walks out of prison with a plan and support network in place.
Rehabilitation isn’t just about what happens in prison..it’s about who someone becomes because of it.
Ready to Volunteer Inside Prison with RISE?
We have a goal of bringing 300 volunteers into prison with us this year. Why?
Volunteers bring a fresh perspective, encouragement and a reminder that people on the outside believe in those on the inside. When you volunteer, you help break down the stigma by building developing impactful memories with justice-impacted individuals. This fosters empathy, understanding, and support for second chances.
Are you ready? You can inquire about volunteering as an individual here.
