Meet Your Board of Directors

Shawn Martin (Founder | Acting Chair)

As the founder and acting Board Chair of Rise Up Lynchburg. My journey has been driven by a passion for empowering communities and creating transformative change through collaborative initiatives. I believe in bringing people together, mobilizing resources, and crafting practical solutions that turn shared vision into reality.

Brooklyn Samuel (Board Secretary)

Hello, I’m Brooklyn Samuel, and I’m honored to serve as the Board Secretary for Rise Up Lynchburg. In this role, I’m dedicated to ensuring that our board’s vision and decisions are meticulously documented and transparently communicated, supporting a seamless flow of ideas and actions that drive our community initiatives forward.

My background in administrative coordination and community engagement has taught me the importance of precise organization and effective collaboration. I see my position not just as a keeper of records but as a facilitator—a way to bridge our collective aspirations with the practical steps needed to create positive change.

I’m passionate about creating a space where every voice is heard, and every effort contributes to the thriving spirit of Lynchburg. It’s my goal to help maintain an environment of accountability and progress at Rise Up Lynchburg, ensuring our organization remains on track as we empower our community together.

I look forward to continuing this journey with a team that shares my commitment to transparency, inclusion, and impactful change. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this transformative experience.

Terrell Robertson (Board Treasurer)

Everyone calls me T, and I’m honored to serve as the Board Treasurer of Rise Up Lynchburg. For nearly a decade, I have been dedicated to supporting students and our community at Central Virginia Community College. Currently, I work as a Navigator for Trio's Student Support Services, which has deepened my commitment to strategic planning and sound financial stewardship.

My extensive experience in higher education has sharpened my abilities in financial oversight, budgeting, and resource management. These skills are crucial to ensuring that every dollar at Rise Up Lynchburg is allocated with precision and transparency, powering our community initiatives toward sustainable impact.

I am excited to bring this expertise to our organization, helping build a robust financial foundation that reinforces our shared mission to empower and elevate our community. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve and contribute to the positive change we envision for Greater Lynchburg.

Join Rise Up Lynchburg Board of Directors

Rise Up | Lift Every Voice | Create Change

As we continue to grow and expand our efforts, we are seeking passionate, dedicated, and experienced individuals to join our Board of Directors.

As a Director, you will play an essential role in guiding the organization's mission, vision, and strategic direction. You will work alongside fellow Directors to foster meaningful community change, support our programs, and help us advocate for those who need it most.

We are looking for individuals who share our values of social justice, empowerment, and community collaboration. Whether you have expertise in finance, nonprofit management, law, advocacy, or another area, your contribution can help us build a stronger, more resilient Greater Lynchburg.

Responsibilities:

Attend regular board meetings and participate in committee work
Provide strategic guidance and oversight for the organization
Assist in fundraising efforts and cultivate new donor relationships
Ensure financial sustainability and accountability
Advocate for the mission and vision of Rise Up Lynchburg & Affiliates

Requirements:

Strong commitment to the organization's success
Prior board experience (preferred but not required)
Ability to dedicate time and energy to the role

If you are ready to make a meaningful impact and contribute to the Future of Greater Lynchburg, we would love to hear from you! Please fill out the form below to express your interest.

Our Purpose
Rise Up Lynchburg is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals and strengthening our community through education, mentorship, and resource-driven programs. Our goal is to help people overcome barriers, achieve their potential, and inspire transformation in Lynchburg and beyond.

Tax Information
Rise Up Lynchburg’s EIN is 33-1533197. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. No goods or services were provided in exchange for your donation unless otherwise stated.