R.I.S.E.HER Foundation
Reclaim.
Empower.
Rise.
Dedicated to supporting women impacted by incarceration by providing the tools, resources, and opportunities needed to rebuild their lives with dignity, stability, and purpose.
About Us
Bridging
the Gap
R.I.S.E.HER Foundation was created to serve women who are transitioning from incarceration and facing the real challenges of starting over. Too often, these women encounter barriers to employment, housing, education, and mental wellness support.
We exist to bridge that gap.
Our foundation is built on the belief that every woman deserves a second chance—not just in words, but through real opportunities, structured support, and access to resources that create lasting change.
Through advocacy, community partnerships, and targeted programming, R.I.S.E.HER is committed to helping women reclaim their lives, rediscover their purpose, and rise into sustainable futures.
Our Purpose
What Drives Us
Our Mission
Our mission is to empower women impacted by incarceration by providing access to workforce development, education, mentorship, mental wellness support, and stable reentry pathways that promote long-term success and independence.
Our Vision
We envision a future where every woman returning from incarceration has access to the support, resources, and opportunities needed to thrive—breaking cycles of recidivism and building stronger families and communities.
Our Values
What We Stand For
Reclaim
We believe in rebuilding lives with dignity and purpose.
Inspiration
We uplift and motivate women to discover their strength and potential.
Support
We provide consistent, compassionate, and judgment-free guidance.
Empower
We equip women with the tools, resources, and confidence to take control of their futures.
Programs & Services
Pathways to Success
Structured programs designed to meet women where they are and support them in building sustainable, independent futures.
Workforce Development
Job readiness training, resume building, interview preparation, and direct connections to employment opportunities.
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Education & Mentorship
Access to educational resources, life skills training, and mentorship programs that support personal and professional growth.
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Mental Wellness Support
Trauma-informed support services and access to mental health resources to promote healing and stability.
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Housing & Reentry Support
Assistance with navigating housing options and building a stable foundation post-incarceration.
Learn More→The Challenge
Why This Matters
Women returning from incarceration face some of the highest barriers to reentry success. Without support, many fall back into cycles of instability.
of women lack stable employment after release
experience housing instability upon reentry
report unmet mental health needs
potential when barriers are removed
R.I.S.E.HER Foundation exists to change that narrative.
Who We Serve
Women Ready
to Rise
Women returning from incarceration
Justice-involved women seeking a second chance
Women facing barriers to employment, housing, and education
Women committed to rebuilding their lives and creating a better future
Stronger Together
Family & Community Support
R.I.S.E. Her Foundation supports women and families as they rebuild their lives after incarceration. We understand that reentry affects more than one person—it affects children, families, and the entire community.
Many mothers face barriers such as limited financial support for daycare, lack of mentorship, and limited access to community centers or support programs. Without these resources, it can be difficult to continue education, maintain employment, attend support groups, or participate in volunteer opportunities.
Our goal is to help bridge that gap by connecting women and families to community support, childcare resources, mentors, and programs that help them move forward. We want every woman to understand that support is available—and that she does not have to rebuild alone.
Through guidance, advocacy, and community partnerships, R.I.S.E. Her Foundation helps women rise, reconnect, and create a stronger future for themselves and their children.
Join the Movement
Get Involved
There are many ways to support the mission. Every contribution helps a woman reclaim her future.
Donate
Help fund life-changing programs that empower women to rebuild their lives.
Partner
Collaborate as an employer or community organization to create pathways.
Volunteer
Mentor, coach, or support our initiatives with your time and expertise.
Advocate
Help us raise awareness and create systemic change in our communities.
Make a Donation
Scan to donate
Our Founder
Meet Nikki Wood
LaShonda "Nikki" Wood
Founder & President
R.I.S.E.HER Foundation
"When women are equipped with education, support, and opportunity, they can overcome adversity, reclaim their independence, and rise to create lasting change."
LaShonda Nicole "Nikki" Wood is the Founder and President of R.I.S.E.HER Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women—particularly those returning from incarceration or facing economic barriers—to reclaim independence through education, workforce development, mentorship, and holistic support.
Driven by a deep commitment to community empowerment and second chances, Nikki founded R.I.S.E.HER Foundation to address the systemic barriers many women face when reentering society. Her vision is to create sustainable pathways that help women rebuild their lives, achieve financial independence, and become leaders within their families and communities.
Nikki brings a strong background in leadership, community engagement, and organizational development. Her work focuses on building partnerships with employers, mentors, community organizations, and local leaders to expand opportunities for women who are working to transform their futures.
Under her leadership, R.I.S.E.HER Foundation is developing innovative programs that provide workforce readiness training, mentorship networks, leadership development, and entrepreneurship opportunities—helping women break cycles of poverty and incarceration while strengthening communities through empowerment and opportunity.
Nikki Wood
Founder/CEO, R.I.S.E.HER Foundation
Join Our Team
Volunteer Application
Ready to make a difference? Complete the form below and a member of our team will be in touch with next steps.
We're Here for You
Request Assistance
You don't have to navigate this journey alone. Fill out the form below and our team will connect you with the support you need — confidentially and with compassion.
One-on-One Support
Schedule a Mentorship Session
Book a session directly to our calendar and take the next step in your journey.
Official Recognition
Federally Recognized Nonprofit
R.I.S.E.HER Foundation is officially recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity. Your donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
IRS Determination Letter — Verified 501(c)(3) Status
Issued by the U.S. Department of the Treasury · Internal Revenue Service
Effective Date
April 14, 2026
IRS Classification
501(c)(3) Public Charity
Contribution Deductibility
Yes — IRC Section 170
Reach Out
Contact Us
Have a question or need support? Send us a message and we'll get back to you.