project-rise

Celebrating Growth and Looking Ahead

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 14:14:51 GMT

Celebrating Growth and Looking Ahead

As we approach an exciting milestone, Aurora Project RISE proudly prepares to celebrate the graduation of Class 6 in May 2026. This remarkable group of participants has demonstrated dedication, resilience, and a commitment to personal and professional growth. Their journey reflects the core mission of Aurora Project RISE—to empower individuals with the skills, confidence, and support needed to thrive.

Looking ahead, Class 7 is already making meaningful progress and is on track to graduate in May 2027. Their continued engagement highlights the strength of the program and the lasting impact it has on participants as they advance through each stage.

At the same time, we are excited to announce that recruitment is now open for Class 8, which will begin in August 2026. This upcoming cohort represents a new opportunity for individuals ready to invest in their future, develop valuable skills, and become part of a supportive and driven community.

Aurora Project RISE remains committed to fostering growth, leadership, and opportunity. As we celebrate the achievements of our graduates and support those currently enrolled, we look forward to welcoming the next class of participants who are eager to rise and succeed.

For more information about enrollment or to apply for Class 8, please contact Marsha Egan at 417-459-3394.

Together, we rise.

Celebrating Milestones

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 15:24:59 GMT

Celebrating Milestones: Project RISE Cohort 5 Graduation

At Project RISE, we believe in the power of community, perseverance, and growth. Today, we are proud to celebrate a significant milestone: the graduation of our Cohort 5 students. This moment marks the culmination of two years of hard work, transformation, and unwavering determination.

Please join us in applauding our incredible graduates— Dawn, Rich, Trent, and Mandie —who have successfully completed the Project RISE program. Their journey has been nothing short of inspiring, and we couldn’t be prouder of the resilience and dedication they’ve shown along the way.

This achievement would not have been possible without the strong foundation built by our community of supporters. We are deeply grateful for our volunteers, whose time, compassion, and consistency make Project RISE possible. A special thank you to Sis Ann, Kyle, Diane, and Angel —your support has been instrumental in every step of this journey.

Our heartfelt thanks also go to our childcare volunteers , the unsung heroes who provide the vital support that allows our parents and participants to focus, grow, and succeed. Your generosity and selflessness are the backbone of our program.

We also want to acknowledge the kindness of our meal providers , including Pettit Law , whose contributions bring comfort and nourishment each week. And to the Aurora United Methodist Church , thank you for your continued generosity in opening your doors to us every Thursday night. Your support has created a safe and welcoming space for learning and community.

As we celebrate the success of Cohort 5, we are reminded that it truly takes a village. Thank you to everyone who has walked alongside us on this journey. Here’s to the future—and all the lives still to be changed.

Big Thanks and Big Wins for Project RISE Families!

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 17:58:11 GMT

Big Thanks and Big Wins for Project RISE Families!

At Project RISE, we believe that real change happens through collaboration, commitment, and community. We’re thrilled to share some exciting progress made possible by the power of partnership—and a whole lot of heart.

Thanks to a meaningful collaboration between Habitat for Humanity (with Brad Boettler), the Aurora Rotary Club (with Mark Dillman), and Project RISE , we were able to run electric and water lines to prepare for the installation of a washer and dryer in one of our participant homes.

This was more than just a project—it was a milestone. The Project RISE family put in sweat equity to help complete the home upgrades and also contributed a down payment on their washer and dryer . It's a beautiful reminder of what’s possible when families are given the opportunity—and the support—to invest in themselves and their futures.

The appliances were purchased locally from Quality Appliance , because we believe in supporting the local businesses that support us. Our Aurora community is strong, and when we invest in each other, we all rise.

To be part of Project RISE, families commit to regular weekly classes and active involvement in the projects that help build stability and success. This recent accomplishment is proof of what that dedication can lead to.

And now, thanks to all this teamwork and determination, laundromat days are over for this Project RISE family—what a moment to celebrate! ��

Thank you to everyone who made this possible. Your efforts don’t just change homes—they change lives. ❤️

Planting, Growing, and Giving Back: A New Season at Project RISE

Tue, 27 May 2025 17:45:54 GMT

Planting, Growing, and Giving Back: A New Season at Project RISE

Spring has officially sprung at Project RISE, and our garden is bursting back to life — thanks to the heart and hands of our kids, teens, adults, staff, and community volunteers.

We kicked off the season by planting the garden together. From the littlest hands to our seasoned teens and adults , everyone pitched in. A special shoutout goes to Gayle, who generously started our tomato plants — both the "Big Boys" and the cherry tomatoes — giving us a delicious head start.

Carri gave us a head start by planting onions earlier this spring, and we’re already seeing signs of last year’s volunteer sunflowers making a comeback.

Kelby is now passing on his knowledge, training Rich to become our resident "Garden Master."

We're also incredibly grateful to our dedicated child care workers, whose support makes days like this possible.

Some of us even had some fun digging around for lizards.

A big thank you to SisAnn and the team of youth and adults who worked hard to fold up the garden tarps that helped keep the weeds dow n, making a big difference this year starting off.

For dinner we had a lovely home-cooked meal, tater tot casserole and corn.

We plan to harvest and gift the flowers to those who have supported us over the past year — a small gesture of gratitude rooted in love and community.

Some very great news from this is that Katie is back with us!

Here’s to growth, gratitude, and giving — from the ground up. ��

A Heartfelt Thank You from Project Rise

Mon, 12 May 2025 20:23:12 GMT

A Heartfelt Thank You from Project Rise

At Project Rise, we are continually humbled by the generosity and support we receive from our community partners. Each month, we are reminded that the work we do is only possible because of the dedication and compassion of others who share our mission to uplift families and create lasting change.

This month, we would like to extend our deepest thanks to two incredible supporters:

The Lions Club – Your donation of food provided nourishment and relief to families who truly needed it. Your continued commitment to community service makes a tangible difference, and we are honored to partner with such a compassionate organization.

Mercy from Project Rise – Your willingness to step in and serve the food with kindness and grace meant so much. On top of that, you went above and beyond by providing child care, allowing parents and caregivers a moment to rest and connect. Your service embodies the spirit of Project Rise—meeting people where they are and lifting them up.

These acts of generosity are just two examples of how our community comes together each month to support one another. To everyone who gives time, resources, and heart—thank you. Together, we are building something truly special.

With gratitude,
The Project Rise Team

July Break & Special Aurora Project RISE Gathering

Mon, 12 May 2025 17:42:58 GMT

July Break & Special Aurora Project RISE Gathering

Dear Aurora Project RISE Participants,

With all the excitement that July brings—holidays, vacations, and summer fun—we will be taking a break from regular classes for the month.

However, we’re excited to announce a special Aurora Project RISE Potluck Gathering at the Aurora Public Pool one Thursday evening in July (date to be announced). This will be a great opportunity to reconnect, relax, and enjoy each other’s company.

Please remember to bring a dish to share for the potluck!

We look forward to seeing everyone there and hope you have a joyful and restful July.

Spring Is Here

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 21:06:20 GMT

It's Garden planning time at Project RISE Aurora

Kelby and Hannah from The Garden Exchange joined us on April 3rd to help with the planning of both vegetables and flowers. In a few weeks we will join the youth and children and plant the garden. This is an awesome project we do together every year. The kids get to experience the creation of planting food from seed to plate. We harvest and take what we can use home. We really appreciate the help that Kelby and Hannah provide for this project. With the flowers Hannah helps us create beautiful floral arrangements, and hand them out to volunteers and community partners as a way of saying Thanks.

We are recruiting for class #7!

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 14:47:08 GMT

Recruiting for Class #7

Project Rise Aurora is now recruiting for class # 7 which will begin around August 2025.

Are you or someone you know wishing you could get more engaged in our community? Do you wish that you handled your money better?

Do you wish you had a group of people to work it through with?

Pick up a Project RISE application from the library and send me a text once completed, we will find a time to meet and talk about all that Project RISE entails

Questions? Text Marsha at 417-459-3394

Project Rise August 25

annameley@gmail.com (Anna Eley) — Thu, 01 Sep 2022 15:56:59 GMT

Tonight Project RISE Aurora spent the first half of class filling out forms to give Drew Lewis foundation data that we collect every six months.

The second half of class we were outside weeding and harvesting our garden. Can't say enough good things about our class the great gardeners and workers and having fun during the process.

Thank you to Summer Sumners for child care, it is invaluable. Thank you very much to First Independent Bank for our meal tonight it was enjoyed by all. Thank you too Ashley Kennedy for organizing our meals all year long. It takes a village to pull this all together and we are so very grateful to our village!

project-rise

Celebrating Growth and Looking Ahead

Celebrating Growth and Looking Ahead

Celebrating Milestones

Celebrating Milestones: Project RISE Cohort 5 Graduation

Big Thanks and Big Wins for Project RISE Families!

Big Thanks and Big Wins for Project RISE Families!

Planting, Growing, and Giving Back: A New Season at Project RISE

Planting, Growing, and Giving Back: A New Season at Project RISE

A Heartfelt Thank You from Project Rise

A Heartfelt Thank You from Project Rise

At Project Rise, we are continually humbled by the generosity and support we receive from our community partners. Each month, we are reminded that the work we do is only possible because of the dedication and compassion of others who share our mission to uplift families and create lasting change.

This month, we would like to extend our deepest thanks to two incredible supporters:

The Lions Club – Your donation of food provided nourishment and relief to families who truly needed it. Your continued commitment to community service makes a tangible difference, and we are honored to partner with such a compassionate organization.

These acts of generosity are just two examples of how our community comes together each month to support one another. To everyone who gives time, resources, and heart—thank you. Together, we are building something truly special.

With gratitude, The Project Rise Team

July Break & Special Aurora Project RISE Gathering

July Break & Special Aurora Project RISE Gathering

Dear Aurora Project RISE Participants,

With all the excitement that July brings—holidays, vacations, and summer fun—we will be taking a break from regular classes for the month.

However, we’re excited to announce a special Aurora Project RISE Potluck Gathering at the Aurora Public Pool one Thursday evening in July (date to be announced). This will be a great opportunity to reconnect, relax, and enjoy each other’s company.

Please remember to bring a dish to share for the potluck!

We look forward to seeing everyone there and hope you have a joyful and restful July.

Spring Is Here

It's Garden planning time at Project RISE Aurora

We are recruiting for class #7!

Recruiting for Class #7

Project Rise August 25

With gratitude,
The Project Rise Team