“Dr. Jerome Conley, a Rise & Shine alum, earned his B.S. in Accounting from Appalachian State University and
his Ph.D. in Business Administration from the University of Tennessee. Today, he serves as an Assistant
Professor at North Carolina A&T State University—living proof that investment in young people yields lifelong
returns. “
— Maurice Jones, Rise and Shine Executive Director

What We Do

Since 1996, when Neighbors In Ministry launched the Rise & Shine year-round after-school program, we have been helping economically disadvantaged and racial minority children learn about the fundamental importance of education, about their community and culture, and about themselves. 

Rise & Shine is the ONLY local after school program that offers:

  • one-on-one tutoring

  • STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics) activities

  • tools for academic and collegiate success

  • lessons in African American history and culture

  • outdoor enrichment activities

Using structured activities and individual coaching, our dedicated staff and corps of volunteers reinforce three key messages:

You matter.

You are important and deserve respect and equality of opportunity. Your needs, your wishes, and your opinions count.

We believe in you.

We are here for you, every day because we have faith in who you are and who you will become.

Dream big.

Whatever you envision for your life, let your dreams inspire you to work hard and reach high.