RISE Expansion Project | Crowdfunding | PWI
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RISE Expansion Project

Project Has Ended

Raised $42,925 out of $8,150,000
Complete

Project Description

About a decade ago, God placed the vision for an inclusive, residential college experience for differently abled students with an alum of Judson University. In 2016, she combined efforts with another Judson alum and staff member to create the RISE Program (Road to Independent Living, Spiritual Formation and Employment).


Since that time, the RISE Program at Judson University grew to offer students the ability to live on a Christian campus while they learn about their gifts and explore the ways they can make a meaningful impact in the world. 

The first graduating cohort took place in May 2019 (pictured above) and launches approximately 8-12 students into employment and increased independence each year. RISE students have not only been transformed, they have transformed the entire Judson community.

The future of the program envisions a new RISE headquarters and housing facility on Judson’s campus. A location has been identified between the Lindner Fitness Center and Barton House.

The new headquarters envisions both living as well as program space. The program areas would include an ADAA compliant learning center for RISE students to build their independent living skills, as well as a location to host events and social activities with their peers.


Additionally, this location provides the opportunity for RISE graduates to live in a safe community and have access to Judson’s campus for job opportunities. Ultimately, the vision holds a place for 10-12 RISE students to live and/or work on campus.

Lastly, we believe God has an even bigger vision for the RISE Program. We would like to share our model with other institutions around the country so even more students can develop their gifts and be more independent.

www.judsonu.edu/rise

Our Mission

Judson is an evangelical Christian university that represents the Church at work in higher education, equipping students to be fully developed, responsible persons who glorify God by the quality of their personal relationships, their work, and their citizenship within the community, the nation and the world.