Rise Above Yoga (RAY) is a volunteer-led collective in Wisconsin making trauma-informed yoga available to those with the least access and the greatest need. Our programs operate in two streams: in-facility classes within jails, prisons, and youth detention centers, and community classes with trusted organizations serving individuals and families navigating systemic barriers. This dual model ensures continuity of care for justice-impacted communities while reaching a broader base of underserved communities in Wisconsin.

RAY serves individuals and families most impacted by the criminal justice system and systemic inequities.

Our In-Facility (PYP) Programs serve incarcerated adults and youth in Dane County jails, prisons, and youth detention centers, with future opportunities to serve correctional staff. We work in partnership with the Prison Yoga Project, a global non-profit organization offering trauma-informed yoga and mindfulness, training, and advocacy to justice impacted communities.

Community (RAY) Programs serve individuals re-entering society following incarceration, justice-impacted families, and undeserved community members reached through partnerships like the Urban League, Madison City Housing, ARC Community Services, FREE Movement, and WISDOM Wisconsin.

The individuals and communities we serve have limited or no access to wellness resources. Many live in stressful or dehumanizing environments, where yoga is rarely available. By meeting people directly in these spaces, RAY creates opportunities for connection, healing, and resilience for all.

Funds raised will be used to purchase equipment for community and in-facility programs, reimburse facilitators for travel expenses and printing costs, and support our expansion in Dane County, Milwaukee and across Wisconsin.

A little goes a long way in helping us bring yoga, mindfulness, and connection to those who need it most. Below are just a few examples of how your donation helps expand access to trauma-informed yoga in under-served Wisconsin communities:

$10 buys a set of yoga blocks
$20-25 fuels a Milwaukee-based facilitator's trip to a weekly class in Madison ⛽️
$30 purchases a new, durable yoga mat
$50 sponsors a quality bolster or blankets for our new prenatal + Mothers and Infants community classes ‍
$75 provides printed handouts for a 6-week cohort (our participants love these!)

a quick note on taxes: As a volunteer-led collective, Rise Above Yoga isn't a 501(c)(3), so donations aren't tax-deductible. All funds are processed through Liz Julia LLC and go directly toward our programming, facilitator travel, and community expansion. Every contribution helps keep this work moving forward. If you are looking to make a tax-deductible donation, we'd love for you to consider our partner, Prison Yoga Project. Visit their website to learn more: https://www.prisonyoga.org/

Please visit RAY's website to learn more or get involved: https://www.riseaboveyoga.org/

Photograph by Robert Susman, courtesy of Prison Yoga Project

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