The Rising Start Foundation

Help Us Launch Our Aspiring Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs By Supporting Our Entrepreneurship Development Lab 

@ The Rising Start

Some of the creative and innovative products handcrafted in our Lab and sold by our students at our Mobile Marketplace

Rising Start students learn "Maker/Creator/Seller" entrepreneurial skills in our Entrepreneurship Development Program

Skills to help them start their own "micro-business", work in our Social Enterprises, or apply in more traditional job settings

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About The Rising Start Foundation

Who We Are

The Rising Start Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering neurodivergent youth and young adults (ages 12–22+) in Miami-Dade County. Through our Academic and Life/Workforce Readiness Program, we help individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and related developmental disabilities build the confidence, skills, and pathways they need to thrive in school, work, and life.

The Challenge

Too many young people on the autism spectrum are left without support during one of the most critical transitions of their lives—moving from school to adulthood. In South Florida, neurodivergent teens and young adults often struggle to find belonging, purpose, and opportunities to become fully contributing members of our community.

Our Solution

At Rising Start, we’re changing that story. Our middle/high school and young adult programs focus on academic success (including standard high school diploma for those seeking it), independent living skills, social-emotional development, and entrepreneurial/workforce readiness—helping every participant discover their strengths and find their place in the world. Together, we’re building a more inclusive future—one Rising Star at a time.

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Building Our Lab - Community Partnership Spotlight

We’re honored to have been selected by the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Miami® Program as one of only four nonprofit partners for their Fall 2025 “Together for Miami” cohort community service project.

This incredible team not only raised vital funds and contributed countless hours of hands-on work (“sweat equity”) to help us build our new Lab, but also went above and beyond by securing generous in-kind donations including from Joseph Oliver and his team, who donated both the materials and labor to install beautiful new flooring for our lab space.

Thanks to their dedication, collaboration, and generosity, our Lab is now a vibrant environment where neurodivergent youth and young adults can learn, grow, and prepare for brighter futures.

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How You Can You Help...

Stage 2 of our Culinary Lab & Marketplace Project focuses on transforming the space into a fully functional, regulation-compliant commercial kitchen. This phase includes installing a properly sized grease trap, a three-compartment sink, and all required plumbing connections to ensure safe and efficient operation. Drainage, ventilation, and water lines are configured to meet local health and building codes, supporting sanitation and food-safety standards. Once complete, the kitchen will be equipped for daily culinary labs, student training, and marketplace production.

Your support on this Give Miami Day 2025  will ultimately push us over the finish line, giving our students access to the fully equipped, industry-standard kitchen they deserve. With these final installations in place, we can provide hands-on training, real production experience, and the practical skills needed to succeed in culinary, hospitality, and entrepreneurship pathways. This step completes the foundation for a thriving learning environment where students gain confidence, mastery, and meaningful opportunities for growth.

Meet Our Founder & Clinical Director - Maria Alejandra Mejia