About Us
Rising Together Since Day One
Rise Above Soars was born from a conviction that every person — regardless of their past — deserves a second chance, a community, and a future.
Our Mission
Restoring Dignity. Rebuilding Lives.
Rise Above Soars exists to serve the most vulnerable in Dallas, TX — those returning from incarceration, those experiencing homelessness, and those in need of emergency shelter — through faith-rooted, community-driven programs that restore dignity and rebuild lives.
We believe transformation is possible for everyone. Our work is grounded in the conviction that lasting change happens through relationship, not just resources — and that the local church is uniquely positioned to be an agent of that change.
"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles."— Isaiah 40:31
Trina Jackson
Founder & Executive Director
Founder's Story
A Mission Born from Experience
Trina Jackson built Rise Above Soars from a place of deep personal conviction — a belief that every person, no matter their past, deserves dignity, community, and a real path forward.
Drawing on years of experience in reentry services, homeless outreach, and faith-based community work in Dallas, Trina founded the organization with a simple but powerful mission: no one should have to rise alone.
Today, Trina leads a growing team of staff, volunteers, and church partners united by that same belief — and by the daily work of proving it true, one life at a time.
Our Values
What We Stand On
Dignity First
Every person we serve is made in the image of God and deserves to be treated with unconditional respect and care.
Faith in Action
We don't just talk about hope — we show up, roll up our sleeves, and do the hard work of walking alongside people.
Radical Welcome
No background, record, or circumstance disqualifies someone from receiving help, community, or a fresh start.
Community Over Programs
Lasting transformation happens through relationship. We build community, not just case files.
Church Partnership
We believe the local church is the most powerful force for restoration in any city — and we exist to activate it.
Accountability & Transparency
We steward every dollar and every relationship with integrity, reporting openly to our donors and partners.
Our Team
The People Behind the Mission
Trina Jackson
Founder & Executive Director
Founder of Rise Above Soars and a passionate advocate for reentry, homelessness support, and faith-based community transformation in Dallas, TX.
Denise Carter
Director of Programs
Licensed social worker with a decade of experience in homeless services and trauma-informed care.
Pastor James Okafor
Director of Church Partnerships
Leads our Faith-Based Shelter Network and serves as liaison to Dallas-area congregations.
Tanya Reeves
Operations & Development
Oversees fundraising, donor relations, and organizational operations with a background in nonprofit finance.
Join the Mission
Whether you give, volunteer, or open your church doors — there's a place for you in this work.