RISE International (RISE), based in Illinois, is an American nonprofit organization with a mission to partner with Angolan churches, community leaders and government officials to build primary schools in rural Angola. To date, over 100 schools have been built, serving over 45,000 children.

RISE was founded in 2001 under the leadership of the Cole family. Don and Naomi Cole served as missionaries in Angola for 18 years. RISE’s vision is to “work together to rebuild lives and communities, reflecting Jesus’ charge to love others as we love ourselves.”

Angola has been ravaged by 27 years of civil war. Two thirds of the people have no access to drinking water. The average life expectancy is 41 years. Rural schools have virtually disappeared, with an entire generation growing up unable to read or write. In April, 2002, the fighting ended, refugees have returned home, and there is a great opportunity to rebuild local communities.

RISE provides designs and plans for building schools, uses local leadership teams to oversee the construction, funds the cost of construction materials, enhances teacher training and provides school supplies.

The Ministry of Education of Angola provides textbooks, desks, maintenance, administration and funds teacher salaries.

The local churches and communities supply the land, volunteer labor, and secure the permits for construction and operation of the schools.

Teams of RISE volunteers travel to Angolan school sites to conduct workshops, training programs and classes. Adult education and community meetings are also held at the schools.

Additional information on donating, participating, and other program details can be found on their website.