Born and raised in the 901, Ripley Neff studied English Literature at the University of Memphis, where she graduated summa cum laude with University and English honors.
Out of college and without a plan, she took what was intended to be a temporary bartending position at a local restaurant. There, she discovered her passion for providing comfort and support to others, with the understanding that many people feel as though nobody is sincerely listening to them without judgment.
After a brief stint in corporate copywriting, Ripley sought out a career path that involved interacting with the public while serving her community; she is thrilled to have found her place within the FEC organization as a Financial Counselor for the Greater Memphis Financial Empowerment Center, in partnership with RISE Foundation!
About
RISE Memphis, founded in 1999, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to empowering low-income individuals and families in Memphis and Shelby County to achieve financial self-sufficiency. The acronym RISE stands for Realizing Income Stability Empowerment, reflecting the organization's core mission.
RISE Memphis offers a comprehensive range of programs and services designed to build and sustain both human and financial assets. These include:
1. Financial literacy education
2. Asset-building initiatives
3. Youth development programs
4. Senior citizen support
5. Financial Counseling
Through its flagship "Save Up" program, RISE provides Individual Development Accounts (IDAs) that combine financial education with incentives to help participants save for important life goals such as homeownership, education, vehicle purchase, or starting a small business.
Since its inception, RISE Memphis has made a significant impact on the community:
Assisted in the purchase of 134 homes
Helped save for and purchase 139 vehicles
Supported the expansion of 38 small businesses
Funded 28 higher education pursuits
Facilitated the purchase of 110 computers
RISE Memphis envisions a future where all residents of Memphis and Shelby County have the tools and resources to achieve financial stability and success. Through its various programs and community partnerships, RISE continues to be a vital force in breaking the cycle of poverty and transforming lives in the Memphis area.