Rising Now, Inc.

Rising Now was founded in 2021 by Chimere and Sean Baker, two individuals shaped by different upbringings but united by a shared passion for empowering youth. One was raised in a two-parent household in a challenging neighborhood, where hard-working parents ensured their success. The other grew up in a single-parent home, navigating adversity firsthand. Their experiences fueled a commitment to creating opportunities for young people, regardless of their background, to thrive and reach their full potential.

In response to the growing need for accessible life skills education and mentorship in Charlotte, North Carolina, Rising Now was established to bridge resource gaps and support youth as they transition through critical life stages. From the beginning, we partnered with the Mecklenburg County Kinship Program to tailor programs that address the unique needs of kinship families, reinforcing community-based support systems.

Expanding our mission in 2022, we collaborated with CS4ALL (Computer Science for All) which is based within the New York Department of Education. This initiative introduced social media internships, equipping students with valuable real-world experience in a tech-driven world while maintaining a focus on holistic personal growth.

Today, Rising Now continues to evolve, offering life skills workshops, mentorship programs, and internship opportunities that inspire and equip young individuals for success. Through partnerships with local organizations, schools, and community leaders, we remain committed to fostering lasting change and making a meaningful impact in Mecklenburg County and beyond.