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Neighborhood Allies Invests a total of $75,000 to Five RISE HIGH Grantee Partners

Aug 1, 2025

We are thrilled to invest in five RISE HIGH Grantee-Partners with $15,000 Growth Grants and a commitment to continued partnership that fuels long-term, community-defined impact! 

Throughout July we had the pleasure of meeting with each of our new partners to hold a special check presentation and hear firsthand about the meaningful, transformative work they’re leading. Learn more about our partners below! 


Artist Talk Mental Health

Artist Talk Mental Health “creates safe spaces for artists to learn and grow in their professional artistry while developing skills and acquiring tools to maintain and take care of their mental health.” (Artist Talk Mental Health | About Us).   They aim to eliminate disparities in mental health access by creating culturally affirming programming that fosters emotional well-being, professional development, and collective healing. RISE HIGH Grant funds will be used to host two Black Therapy 101 events, which typically feature “BIPOC therapists introducing conversations around the process of therapy, types of therapy, and instructions on how to access BIPOC therapists.” (Artist Talk website | Programs & Events). 

Learn more about Artist Talk Mental Health.

A’s Vision

A’s Vision equips inner-city youth with critical life skills that will help them thrive as responsible young adults. Since 2019, the program has supported over 60 individuals, ages 16 to 22, in earning their driver’s license—an important milestone for independence and employment. With expanded interest from regional Trade unions and new Real I.D requirements taking effect, RISE HIGH funds will help A’s Vision serve residents ages 22-30. Grant funds will cover programming, vehicle maintenance, and administration costs.

Learn more about A’s Vision. Also, read about our previous work with them!

Tech25

Photo by Kennadi Jackson, Tech25 Summer Learn & Earn Program

Tech25 opens doors to living-wage careers in event production and broadcast technology by offering free training, mentorship, and hands-on experience. Their programs are helping diversify the entertainment and tech industries while advancing economic opportunity for residents in Carrick, Mt. Oliver, and the Hilltop. RISE HIGH Grant funds will expand Tech25’s training program and implement Ableton Live production packs for the Carnegie Library system, providing accessible digital music production resources to the public. Community organizations, event producers, and aspiring musicians will all benefit from these expanded

Learn more about Tech25.

T.H.A.W.

T.H.A.W. (Transforming the Health of African American Women) aims to “improve the health and quality of life for African American Women and the communities they live in; through education and other interventions that promote health awareness and personal development.” (THAW | About). T.H.A.W. delivers trauma-informed wellness programming focused on physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Their work centers the holistic well-being of women in historically underinvested communities like Homewood, Wilkinsburg, and Larimer. RISE HIGH Grant funds will be used to expand access to T.H.A.W.’s trauma-informed wellness program. The grant will allow T.H.A.W. to increase programming capacity, enhance outreach efforts, and provide training for additional facilitators, ensuring that more women can access physical movement, mental health support, and community-building resources in a culturally affirming space.

Learn more about T.H.A.W.

Ujamaa Collective

Ujamaa Collective promotes cooperative economics by advancing Africana women through entrepreneurship, cultural exchange, and community development in the Historic Hill District and beyond. Ujamaa accomplishes its mission through various programs and initiatives, including its Hill District based artisan boutique, pop-up marketplace events, arts an entrepreneurship programming, and advocacy on health, shared wealth and cooperation. RISE HIGH Grant funds will be used to cover programming, administration costs, and facilities costs associated with the Eco Essence program. 

Learn more about Ujumaa Collective.


Check out some recent articles highlight past grantees!

Professional Women’s Network gains capacity, expands reach with $15,000 RISE HIGH Grant.

A’s Vision: Empowering Youth with Skills for Life

$15,000 RISE HIGH Grant Supports Awaken Pittsburgh’s Work to Provide Educators and Helping Professionals with Mindfulness Techniques to Reduce Stress

The Kingsley Association, an organization worthy of our support

All grantees have been selected for 2025. Check back next year for the new grant round!

Top Header Image Photo Credit: Prototyping Larimer Stories by artist John Peña, photo by OPA