In 2024, the SOAR Collective raised $10,000 through member contributions and generous donations from family and friends. Together, we awarded a $7,664.20 grant to one Black-led nonprofit in Raleigh, North Carolina. Through a partnership with the CoThinkk Giving Circle, we also helped direct over $2,000 in additional support to four organizations in Asheville led by people of color working on Hurricane Helene recovery efforts.
We’re proud to share how one of those grants, awarded to the Darkness RISING Project, is already making a powerful impact. This organization is committed to advancing mental wellness in Black and marginalized communities. Just six months after receiving our support, the results are in: lives are changing, families are healing, and young people are finding their footing again.
Why This Matters
Culturally competent mental health care is still a privilege for many, especially for those who are justice-involved or navigating trauma at a young age. Darkness RISING is working to change that narrative. With the support of SOAR and others, they have expanded access to care and created space for healing grounded in culture, dignity, and trust.
Here's What Your Support Help Make Possible
REBUILD Program
Since January 2025, 65 formerly incarcerated individuals have enrolled in free therapy. Fourteen participants have completed all 10 sessions. Each is connected with a Black therapist and supported through reintegration services that center healing and resilience.Find Me A Therapist (FMAT)
Over 700 Black community members have been matched with Black therapists through FMAT since the start of the year. In 2025, the program also began serving youth ages 5 to 24, filling a critical gap in early mental health care.Support for Justice-Involved Youth
Darkness RISING provided 73 free therapy sessions to youth in Wake County and successfully matched 41 young people with culturally aligned therapists. Every therapy voucher application submitted since January has been approved and renewed for those who requested continued care.Community Engagement
Through events like NC Darkness RISING Live 8, which brought more than 5,000 attendees to Moore Square in May, the organization has spread a message of wellness, joy, and cultural pride. Over 60 vendors participated, and SOAR volunteers were front and center helping make the event a powerful day of healing through music, dance, and connection.Reducing Recidivism
Youth who completed therapy through the REBUILD program have a recidivism rate of zero. This stands in sharp contrast to the national average for juvenile recidivism, which is estimated to be as high as 30 percent.
Stories that Inspire
“I was incarcerated at a federal prison and experienced deep trauma and sexual assault. I knew I needed therapy, but it was important to me to connect with a therapist who, like me, is a Black woman. REBUILD made that possible.”
— S.T., REBUILD Participant
“I am thankful for the therapy that was provided for my son as it enabled us to connect on a more personal level. Most importantly, we can hold space for each other to express ourselves rather than hold it in.”
— Parent of a REBUILD Youth participant
Help Us Do It Again
This is the power of collective giving. When we pool our resources, we create real and lasting change. In 2025, we are gearing up to select another amazing organization that is supporting our communities with bold vision and deep care.
Our goal is to raise $12,250 by November 2025 to fund our next grant. Every dollar brings us closer to that vision
Will you help us make it happen?
Join us in fueling the work of Black-led organizations that are transforming lives every day.
