Impact Stories

LIFT Impact Partners began working with Rise in 2016 to help strengthen our impact measurement, build capacity and scale nationally. In 2025, they were awarded our Dave Richardson Champion Award.

Dawn Kloster built Infinity Wellness Pop-ups to create the kind of healing, community space she once needed herself. With support from Rise, she's turned that vision into a growing business rooted in connection.

What's volunteer mentor Martin Traub-Werner's advice for mentoring partnerships? “One, be invested but understand that it’s not your journey … Two, be available, be flexible, be realistic, and be a cheerleader … Three, listen a lot and be grateful.”

Shaun Pingitore volunteers with Rise because he understands the value of mentorship. He's experienced it firsthand as an entrepreneur and says helping others to succeed is "the most satisfying feeling."

With support from the Rise Small Business Lending Program, Reham Teama has not only turned her life story into a book series but also translated it into a successful business in the publishing industry.

After overcoming severe trauma, Michelle Tasa built Artpourings Studio—a safe space for learning and creativity. With support from the Rise Small Business Lending Program, she turned her resilience into a busy business.

Andria Barrett wanted to be a public speaker. In 2016, she founded The Diversity Agency, a speakers bureau specializing in representing BIPOC speakers. With support from Rise, she laid a foundation for growth and success.