Celebrating 30 Years of Impact

As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we honor:

The scholars who discovered confidence and success

The parents who trusted us with their children

The volunteers who gave their time and hearts

The staff and board members who served faithfully

The churches, foundations, businesses, and donors who believed in our mission

The community that helped Rise & Shine become a lasting light for local youth

Thousands of lives have been touched through the love, support, and educational opportunities provided by Rise & Shine over the past 30 years.

And this is only the beginning.

Donate to 30th Anniversary

30 Years of Changing Lives

A Legacy That Shines Since 1996

For 30 years, Rise & Shine has been more than an after-school program — it has been a place of hope, opportunity, encouragement, and transformation for the children and families of Transylvania County.

Founded in 1996 during a time of racial division and tension in our community, Rise & Shine was created to bring people together through one powerful mission: investing in children. What began as a vision rooted in compassion and unity has grown into a life-changing organization serving generations of scholars and families.

Today, through academic support, mentoring, guided reading, STEM enrichment, tutoring, summer learning experiences, field trips, arts programming, and community partnerships, Rise & Shine continues to help young people dream bigger, believe in themselves, and reach their full potential.

For three decades, we have remained committed to our mission of enriching children, empowering parents, and encouraging community.

Join the Celebration

Throughout our 30th Anniversary year, we invite alumni, families, supporters, volunteers, and community partners to celebrate the legacy of Rise & Shine and help us build the future for the next generation.

Together, we are honoring the past, celebrating the present, and investing in the future of our children and community.