Home - Lilac Rising

When women rise, barriers fall, and futures are rewritten.

Welcome to Lilac Rising. We're a nonprofit offering practical support that meets you where you are. Whether you're navigating a tough moment or reaching for something more, we're here to help you rise.

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Our Story

Sometimes life throws more at you than you feel ready to handle—a broken car, a missed paycheck, an unexpected expense. It can be enough to knock you off your path.

That's why we started Lilac Rising.

We're not therapists or lawyers. We're your neighbors, friends, and community members—a group of local women who saw the need for practical, judgment-free support when it matters most.

We focus on short-term, non-medical, non-legal financial help. That might mean covering a bus pass so you can get to work, helping with a small home repair that's causing stress, pitching in to fix your car, or covering a bill that just can't wait.

We also connect women with trusted local nonprofits for things like housing, job training, emotional support, and resources for your children and family — because knowing where to turn is powerful.

And when you're ready to grow, we provide scholarships to help you take that next step forward.

At Lilac Rising, we believe every woman deserves a chance to move forward—not just survive, but move into what comes next.

Who We Are

We are a group of local women who came together with a
shared belief: every woman deserves a support system.

Empowerment

We see every woman's
potential. We believe
in your strength,
your dreams, and
your ability to rise
above any challenge.

Heart

We meet people with compassion, not judgment. Life is messy, and we're here to walk beside you through it all.

Honesty

We keep it real. Life is messy. Help should be simple. No complicated forms, no runarounds, just genuine support.

Courage

We stand with women through the hard stuff. You don't have to face challenges alone—we're here to support you.

Erin Jennings

President

Jen Bras

Vice President

Kate Burcham

Founder/Treasurer

Katie Rife

Secretary

Shannon Smith

Director

Get Help

You don't have to go through it alone. Lilac Rising offers three kinds of support:

Financial
Assistance

We help with short-term, non-medical, non-legal needs:

Transportation to work or appointments
Assistance with essential, one-time needs
Small home repairs causing stress
Car repairs to get you back on track
Bills that just can't wait

Scholarships

Ready to move forward with school, a certification, or another growth opportunity?

We offer small scholarships to help you rise and achieve your educational and career goals.

Educational programs
Professional certifications
Skill development courses
Career advancement training

Referrals to Trusted Partners

Not sure where to turn? We work with incredible local organizations that specialize in:

Housing assistance
Employment & job training
Mental health support
Childcare & family resources
Legal assistance
Healthcare navigation

Let them doubt you. We won’t.

At Lilac Rising, we understand that asking for help takes courage. That’s why we lead with empathy — listening to your story, not picking it apart.

Yes, we’ll ask a few questions.
Not because we need you to prove yourself — but because we want to understand how best to help.

You’re not alone.
You’re not too much.
You’re not too late.
You’re allowed to rise — and we’re here for it.

Ready to Rise Together?

Whether you need support or want to support others,
we're here for the conversations, the questions, and the quiet
"I'm not sure where to start" moments.

Email Us ANY time