Small Groups

Where Real Growth Happens

At Rise Up, Small Groups are the heartbeat of lasting transformation, creating safe spaces where students can share, learn, and grow together through faith-centered and authentic relationships.

Small Groups with Big Impact

Our Small Groups meet weekly and are designed to go deeper than surface-level connection. These gatherings help students build trust, develop emotional intelligence, and explore life and faith in a space where they are seen, heard, and valued.

Each group is led by trained, caring partners who guide meaningful discussions and model Christ-centered leadership. We focus on relational connection, personal responsibility, and spiritual growth, because we know students thrive when they feel truly known.

Intentional Relationships.
Lasting Change.

These aren’t just “hangouts” they are supportive environments built around purpose. Students who attend Small Groups find a consistent circle of peers and adults who will walk with them through both challenges and celebrations.

"Rise Up is not just an after-school program. It’s family. My children come home not only with completed homework, but with joy in their hearts, songs on their lips, and a sense of purpose in their steps."

 - Princess Buckman, Parent

Want to Get Your Student Plugged In?

Our Small Groups are open to students in upper elementary and middle school. Let us know you’re interested and we’ll help you get started.

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Princess Buckman's Story

I don’t remember the exact date we were introduced to RISE UP, also known as SKIA, but our family’s journey started when my two youngest brothers joined the after-school program. At the time, the oldest of the two was in elementary school. As the oldest sibling, I had always taken responsibility for after-school activities for my younger brothers.

Before SKIA, I signed them up for Boys & Girls Clubs, Educare, and Coalition for Kids. Those programs were fine — they met the basic needs we had at the time. But when I filled out the paperwork for Edward, who was in 2nd or 3rd grade, we immediately felt something different. The people were warm and genuinely cared about the kids and their families.

Yes, SKIA was an after-school program, but it was so much more than homework help. They invested in Edward’s education, his life skills, his spiritual growth, and his joy. Every day he came home with a huge smile, excited to share something new — a life lesson, a song, a sport, a trip, or a story.

I’m very protective of my siblings, but with SKIA, I felt at peace. I trusted them. As my younger brother Cable started elementary school, I didn’t hesitate to enroll him too. Everyone I knew, especially in our African community, had to hear about SKIA and what a gift it was for our family.

In 2015, just as Edward was starting middle school, we lost him unexpectedly. That night, as we called family members to break the devastating news, SKIA was on that list. It felt natural — they weren’t just a program; they were family. Through our unimaginable grief, they stood by us in every way possible. They showed us love and never left our side.

As I started my own family, my son Jaden was enrolled as soon as he was old enough. We had tried other programs before, but none came close to what RISE UP offered. Then my daughters came along, and of course, they joined too.

To us, RISE UP isn’t an after-school program — it’s family. They’ve given me extra help in raising my kids, helping me instill values of love, service, and faith in Christ. I am forever grateful for the love and care they’ve poured into my children’s hearts, minds, and souls.

You all at RISE UP made me truly understand what 1 John 4:21 means. Thank you.