Rising Together: How Grandma’s House of Hope and RiseHyre Empower Participants

At Grandma’s House of Hope, we know that rebuilding a life takes more than a safe place to sleep—it requires guidance, practical skills, and encouragement every step of the way. That’s why our partnership with RiseHyre has been such a vital part of supporting our participants on their journey to independence and self-sufficiency.

“Our partnership with Grandma’s House of Hope is deeply aligned with our mission,” says Melissa Price, Program Manager at RiseHyre. “We serve individuals facing barriers to employment who are actively rebuilding their lives, and this partnership allows us to meet participants where they are and walk alongside them, providing workforce readiness services and job opportunities."

RiseHyre’s provides participants with resume building, mock interviews and individualized case management. RiseHyre’s approach goes beyond traditional workforce readiness. “At RiseHyre, we don’t just prepare people to get a job, we prepare them to keep a job and grow in their careers,” Melissa explains. “Through our paid apprenticeship program, participants gain hands on work experience in office administration, event planning, hospitality and customer service, while also building essential skills like communication, accountability, and workplace confidence. We provide structured support throughout the process, because navigating employment, especially during life transition, can feel overwhelming.”

But the impact of RiseHyre goes beyond job placement. Erin Mosher, Case Manager, highlights the importance of building the soft and life skills needed to succeed in today’s workforce: “We focus on skills like time management, conflict resolution, transportation planning, financial literacy, budgeting, and communication skills. These skills help participants not just survive, but thrive in all areas of life.”

The combination of hard and soft skills has a profound effect. “Many participants are still finding themselves when they arrive,” Erin continues. “It’s inspiring to see someone grow from walking in uncertain and discouraged to confidently holding a conversation, making eye contact, and shaking hands firmly. Their self-esteem and confidence begin to flourish.”

Employment and income are essential to long-term stability, and RiseHyre supports participants in preparing for sustainable independence. Melissa shares a recent success: “Several participants who have engaged in both Grandma’s House of Hope services and RiseHyre programs recently reached meaningful milestones.Two graduated from our program this fall and are now in stable, fulfilling employment, and another apprentice just got the call that he’s moving into his new home tomorrow. Job security and housing go hand-in-hand, and celebrating these milestones with participants is so meaningful."

RiseHyre also encourages participants to set personal goals and explore their interests, helping them envision a fulfilling life beyond immediate survival. Melissa adds, “It’s so rewarding to see participants light up when they meet goals, whether it’s securing an interview, landing a job, or moving into permanent housing. We get to be their cheerleaders and witness their progress every step of the way.”

This partnership perfectly complements the safe, structured, and welcoming environment at Grandma’s House of Hope. “Every home feels like a real home,” Melissa says. “Staff care deeply, the environment is warm and structured, and optional services like therapy are available to support continued growth.”

Together, Grandma’s House of Hope and RiseHyre are helping participants transform their lives. They leave with employment, housing, life skills, confidence, and hope for the future—proof that with the right support, meaningful change is possible. As Erin reflects, “Every time I attend a house meeting, I see lives truly changing. It’s real, and it’s beautiful. We can’t do this without our partners.”

Through collaboration, compassion, and guidance, we are helping participants not just survive—but truly thrive.