In a world often shaped by the curated images and pressures of social media, young women need a space to truly discover themselves, free from external expectations. That's precisely the vision behind Dara Rising, a new not-for-profit organization dedicated to empowering teenage girls and young women to navigate life's challenges with resilience, embrace their authentic selves, and realize their potential to lead and create positive change.

My personal journey inspired me to found Dara Rising. Having experienced firsthand the complexities of growing up in a male dominated corporate environment and finding my voice, I wanted to create a haven where young women could explore their passions, develop their strengths, and build a strong sense of community. Our symbol, the Dara Knot, perfectly encapsulates our mission: it represents strength, wisdom, and endurance – qualities we aim to instill in every member. We want to empower girls and women to find their power, own their passions, and make decisions based on their true desires, not on what they feel they "should" do.

Dara Rising envisions a future where young women celebrate their individuality, embrace diversity, and collaborate to drive meaningful change in their communities and beyond. To achieve this, we're building a vibrant and supportive environment where members can connect, learn, and grow.

Our initial programs offer a dynamic blend of fun and enrichment. Imagine an evening of creativity at a paint night, followed by a themed session with inspiring speakers covering topics relevant to our community, like financial literacy or mental well-being. We believe in providing a wide range of opportunities, from practical skills like resume writing workshops to exciting experiences such as exploring new sports or learning to cook.

Dara Rising is more than just a series of events; it's a community where every girl and young woman feels safe, valued, and empowered. It's a place where they can forge lasting friendships, discover hidden talents, and gain the confidence to lead and thrive. We invite you to join us in building this vital community and helping the women of our future shine brightly. Please visit our website to learn more or check out our upcoming events at https://dararising.org/. 

Christine Isbell

Founder & CEO, Dara Rising

Reach out to learn about sponsorship or volunteer opportunities: info@dararising.org

To make a donation: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/dara-rising