About Us

Founders & Special Needs Mamas

Christine and Emily first crossed paths in 2018 when their young children both attended the same ABA clinic but were both at busy stages in their lives and were moving at such a fast pace that time for true connection was not possible. Flash forward to 2024, where Emily and Christine attended the same ABA conference and had the chance to reconnect. Following the conference, their friendship developed through connecting at church functions and on family lunch dates where they discussed their shared love of behavior analysis and their goals for the future of their children.

The most beautiful part, however, was that not only did their friendship bloom, but Madilyn and Aiden soon became friends as well! It was around this time that conversations were had about the challenges their kiddos would face as they got older such as a lack of services and social opportunities as well as likely unemployment. These conversations sparked the desire to create The RISE Community – a radically inclusive and supportive environment where everyone’s unique talents are valued and new skills are developed.