Volunteerism
RISE volunteers are the heart and soul of our organization. We are deeply grateful for the 359 volunteers who gave their time and energy to further our reentry programs in 2023. Among these volunteers, 230 were new faces! All are eager to uplift and empower our program participants, creating a ripple effect of positivity and hope throughout the community, both inside and outside of prison.
Last year’s volunteers added to RISE’s year‑to‑date volunteer total of 1,481 individuals! This level of commitment and compassion is truly inspiring and speaks volumes about the generosity and selflessness of our community. Thank you for believing in second chances!
In 2023, we had an incredible group of 55 Nebraska Department of Corrections‑approved volunteers! They came into facilities for coaching days to support our in‑prison education programs participants. These dedicated individuals, who have undergone a background check and orientation with NDCS, are committed to supporting our mission of rehabilitation and reentry for incarcerated individuals and can always be counted on to accept my invitation to an in‑prison milestone event![1]
Many volunteers took the time to review resumes, cover letters, business ideations, and personal statements online, offering valuable feedback and support to our post‑release programs participants. Others took the initiative to join us at Werner Park for a baseball game and to fill hygiene bags for those returning to the community soon.[2]
Some generously provided meals for our Family Program or judged pitch competitions for RISE Business Academy graduations. Volunteers took the time out of their day to gather at RISE and Shine coffee hour or attended our Annual Appreciation Breakfasts to build camaraderie among themselves, RISE staff, participants, and other community partners. Their dedication and kindness know no bounds, and I am genuinely grateful to be surrounded by such passionate individuals striving to make a difference in the lives of others.[3]
“I first thought about volunteering in prison while dating my partner several years ago after watching him struggle with society's non‑acceptance of people who had a record or had done time in prison. It was shocking for me to realize how a poor choice seemingly allowed society to slap a label on them that would haunt them for the rest of their lives, regardless of how remorseful they were or how much they grew as a person while serving their time. The double standard made no sense to me, especially considering the fact that every single one of us has made a poor choice at one time or another. When my partner passed away unexpectedly, I knew I had to find a new purpose in life, and I was fortunate enough to meet Chantal and get connected with RISE.
I genuinely enjoy getting to know each of the RISE participants, hearing their stories, and learning from them. Volunteering has been incredibly enlightening and healing for me, and I do my best to spread the word about RISE because it is such an incredible program for participants and volunteers alike (and of course the RISE team!). I am forever grateful to RISE and all of the participants whom I've had the honor of meeting. I look forward to volunteering for many years to come!” -Christine J., RISE Volunteer
