RISE Has 688 Graduates!
On Friday, December 15th, 2023 RISE and community volunteers celebrated 13 more graduates of the RISE In-Prison Program within the Nebraska Department of Corrections!
"I've been told that I've matured and have become more disciplined, I am not as quick to be angered, and I've become more educated because of this program and others. I feel as if I've met people that can actually help me in my situation, I don't quite feel as "alone" as I used to. Because of RISE, I have received more than education. I feel as if I regained my self-confidence, I learned that I can do this and I can become a better person than what I was. I've learned that I am actually a very lucky person and that I don't have to remain as cynical as I have been, I've learned that I matter and that my mistakes don't define me." - Quentel, RISE Graduate
Rich won the business pitch competition with his business, Midwest Trim Carpentry. Not only did he have an incredible pitch, he had beautiful handmade craftsmanship to accompany it.
1st Place: Rich - Midwest Trim Carpentry
2nd Place Tie: Ryan - Luscious Landscapes
2nd Place Tie: Quentel - Effective Energy
3rd Place Tie: Shane - A-Ton Construction
3rd Place Tie: Steven - Together We Clean
Peer Favorite: Tie - Ryan - Luscious Landscapes and Rich - Midwest Trim Carpentry
Family Favorite: Rich - Midwest Trim Carpentry
RISE Withness Award: Ryan
Valedictorian: Quentel
The cohort graciously presented the RISE staff with handmade plaques as a thank you. We are so touched by their thoughtfulness and excited to proudly display these in both our Lincoln and Omaha offices!
