Founded in 2014, Lift to Rise grew out of the belief that, through collaboration between private and public sector leaders and community advocates, we can create greater impact for our Coachella Valley communities.

Our organization addresses the underlying causes and consequences of inequities in the Coachella Valley by uplifting our region’s story, building local strength, and instigating change.

During one of the early listening sessions we held across the region with residents to better understand immediate needs and prioritize strategic planning, an elder shared the story that inspired our name: “I came here. I work so hard in the fields every day because I believe that the Coachella Valley is a place where when the sun rises, it rises for everyone.” Our name honors this vision of hope and aspiration. We lift, so that everyone can rise.

Community: We believe that community voice and leadership must be central to planning, implementation, and evaluation of our work.

Racial Equity: We seek and value all types of diversity, and strive to dismantle inequities, including those present in ourselves, our organizations, and our communities.

Innovation: We believe change is possible, are not afraid to try new ways to solve old problems, and take initiative to learn, cross boundaries, and overcome obstacles.

Results: We set clear goals, measure progress, and use data informed by the community to make decisions and hold ourselves and each other accountable.

Servant Leadership: We build trust with partners, and seek to lift up and support the leadership and actions of others.

Belonging: We create teams and spaces where people feel care, practice empathy, and work through differences.