RISE In-Prison Program Trip Leader volunteer smiles at a RISE participant.

“Trip Leaders”

“Travel isn’t always pretty. It isn’t always comfortable. But that’s ok. The journey changes you; it should change you.”
— Anthony Bourdain

Introducing RISE Trip Leaders: an opportunity to transform lives—both yours and those of others. As a Trip Leader, you’ll rally a group from your company, church, or community to join you for an unforgettable day inside a RISE In-Prison Program Milestone Event.

Together, you’ll participate in empathy-building exercises and coach program participants on job readiness, business ideation, or even judge a business pitch competition!

Step up to lead and be part of a deeply impactful experience that builds bridges and transforms lives.

What does volunteering inside prison look like?

We’re really glad you asked!

Take a look inside Union Pacific’s experience!

HOW IT WORKS

FIRST

You’ll speak with RISE’s Volunteer Relations Manager about your volunteer commitment and administrative requirements.

Due to rules and policies set in place by the Nebraska Department of Corrections, this happens roughly 6-12 months prior to the event you choose to attend.

second

Working with RISE, you’ll brainstorm potential invitees to join in on this experience. Our goal is for you to recruit and solidify 30 people to volunteer with you. You’ll be given all the resources and support you need - email templates, language, and security clearance forms that are needed to enter the prison facility.

This happens roughly 6 months out from your chosen event.

Third

RISE will facilitate an event orientation in person and/or online for you and your volunteer guests.

This will happen roughly two months prior to the event date.

Fourth

The last five days prior to your volunteering event, RISE will maintain contact with you to answer any questions you and your group have and guide you through the moment you walk through the doors!

FAQ

  • RISE has a goal of 30 volunteers attending each milestone event. If you plan to be a solo trip leader, the expectation is that 30-45 volunteers will be recruited and will sign up to come.

    If needed, you can co-lead with someone.

  • Trip leaders should recruit people in their network that they can trust. Think about people you know who will come with an open, curious mind. That will show up the day of the event if they sign up and take it seriously and follow rules and instructions. People who will treat prison staff, RISE staff, other volunteers and RISE participants with respect. 

    Volunteers must be over 19 years old and have a valid, current (non-expired) government-issued ID (Driver’s License, Passport). 

  • Plan on 8 full hours (this may not include drive-time based on the location of facilities).

    Because of the strain it puts on RISE staff, the event agenda, and the Nebraska Department of Corrections, arriving late and leaving early is not allowed.

  • Omaha, Lincoln, York, and Tecumseh, Nebraska

  • Based on RISE’s In-Prison Program educational timeline and how the Nebraska Department of Correctional facilities operate, RISE Milestone Event dates can fluctuate. Please plan on your start-to-finish timeline taking 6-12 months.

    We know you are excited to take action immediately, however this 6-12 month timeline gives you, RISE, and the Nebraska Department of Corrections enough time to have your team come in.

    We all appreciate you playing “the long game” with us!

  • Union Pacific, First National Bank, Nomi Health, Signature Performance, Speedway Motors, EO Nebraska, Bank of the West, and so many more!

Ready for More Information to Become a Volunteer Trip Leader?

Fill out the form below to get started!

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A woman speaking into a microphone at an event with a backdrop that says "RISE." She is flanked by two women, one on each side, who are listening attentively. The woman in the middle has long dark hair, glasses, and is wearing a light gray shirt and a gray cardigan.
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