From the Dinner Table to the Boardroom.
RISE empowers individuals through community feeding, career development, accessible education, and essential support for our neighbors in our community.
Our Leadership
Meet the Visionary Behind RISE
Chief Innovation
Officer
Toney Favors
Chief Innovation Officer & Founder
Toney Favors is the visionary founder and Chief Innovation Officer of RISE, driven by an unwavering belief that every individual regardless of their circumstances deserves access to the tools, resources, and support needed to thrive.
With a deep-rooted passion for education and community empowerment, Toney established RISE in September 2023 to bridge the gap between need and opportunity for communities that need support. Under his leadership, RISE has grown from a grassroots initiative to a thriving nonprofit impacting thousands of lives annually.
Toney believes that real change begins at the dinner table and extends all the way to the boardroom and every step in between is an opportunity to lift someone up. His hands-on approach and compassionate leadership style set the tone for everything RISE stands for.
Who We Are
Building a Stronger Community Through Education & Service.
Resourceful Impact in Scholastic Education (RISE) is committed to empowering individuals to excel academically and professionally. We believe that true impact happens when we address the immediate needs of our community from food security and clothing to education and career readiness.
Our dedicated team collaborates with academic organizations, local restaurants, volunteers, and donors to connect people with vital resources, guidance, and opportunities while fostering a lifelong culture of giving back.
- Workshops, seminars, and community service events
- Partnership with local food banks and restaurants
- Career mentorship and talent pipeline programs
- Educational resources for all backgrounds
RISE volunteers serving neighbors at a community feeding event.
What We Stand For
Overcoming Challenges With Our True Values
Our values aren't just words on a wall — they're the principles that guide every decision, every event, and every interaction we have.
Inclusivity
We value inclusivity and aim to provide access to resources for all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances. Every person deserves a seat at the table.
Commitment to Education
RISE is dedicated to promoting education as a pathway to success and believes in the importance of continuous learning and growth for every member of our community.
Giving Back
RISE encourages individuals to give back to their communities and support others on their journey to success, creating a lasting cycle of empowerment.
Compassion
Every initiative we run is rooted in genuine compassion. We show up with kindness and dignity for every person who walks through our doors.
Community First
Our community is our priority. We listen, we adapt, and we serve — meeting people where they are and building trust through consistent action.
Excellence
We hold ourselves to the highest standard in everything we do, from community feeding programs to academic workshops and career development events.
Join Us in Making a Lasting Impact.
Whether you choose to donate to our programs or volunteer your time at our next event, your contribution matters more than you know.