You can make a difference
About Rise to Independence
Empower girls from distressed backgrounds to become self-sufficient and productive citizens of Bangladesh
Support girls living in shelters as they rise to their potential, becoming confident and financially independent through education, skill-based programs, and positive life choices.
Advisory Board
Dr. Sabina Ahmed
Bev Questad, Ph.D.
Bev Questad, Ph.D.
- RTI, Executive Director
- Senior Healthcare Quality Analyst
Bev Questad, Ph.D.
Bev Questad, Ph.D.
Bev Questad, Ph.D.
- RTI, Secretary
- Educator
William Sterr
William Sterr
William Sterr
Writer and IT Trainer
Hai Zaidul
William Sterr
Atik Rahman
Restaurant Entrepreneur
Atik Rahman
William Sterr
Atik Rahman
Architect
Administration
Rehnuma Karim, Ph.D.
Rehnuma Karim, Ph.D.
Rehnuma Karim, Ph.D.
HFA/RTI Liaison in Bangladesh
Founder and President of Heroes for All
Irfat Ali
Rehnuma Karim, Ph.D.
Rehnuma Karim, Ph.D.
Program Director in Bangladesh
Miran Hasan
Rehnuma Karim, Ph.D.
Miran Hasan
Program Manager
Help Our Cause
Your support and contributions will enable us to meet our goals and improve conditions. Your generous donation will fund our mission.
Our Story
Our History
In August 2022 an orphanage for 50 girls was closed in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The younger girls were placed in alternate orphanages. However, at least 18 older girls, aged 15+, were stranded with little or no support.
Six donors for that orphanage, having learned about the entire scope of the situation, formed a coalition of support.
October, 2022: Vocational training was procured for 2 students.
February, 2023: Continuing education was financed for 18 girls.
April, 2023: The six donors formed Rise to Independence, initially under the administrative NGO, Heroes for All.
September 6, 2023: Harmony Haven was established for the girls without a safe shelter.
October, 2023: Rise to Independence became an official independent 501.C.3 non-governmental agency.
Our Mission
At Rise to Independence, our mission is to provide shelter and support to homeless individuals in our community. We believe that everyone deserves a safe and comfortable place to call home, and we work tirelessly to make that a reality.