meet our team

Founder & Executive Director

Meet Jaimie. Jaimie is a seasoned public servant with over thirteen years of experience in special education, dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities and fostering inclusive communities.

Certified in both Elementary Education and Special Education, Jaimie spent over a decade as a special education teacher, working closely with families to ensure every child receives the support and dignity they deserve.

Jaimie founded Rising Lights Project in 2020 and leads with compassion and vision—creating spaces where individuals of all abilities feel welcomed, valued, and connected.

Jaimie is CPR certified and continues to pursue professional development that enhances both safety and care within Rising Lights’ programs.

Director of Development & Operations

Meet Laura. Laura joined Rising Lights in 2025 and brings over 20 years of professional fundraising experience, with a proven talent for bringing people and ideas together, to our team.

Laura has a passion for serving the disability community, having being introduced to Rising Lights through a neighbor who is a Rising Adult member.

She brings both fundraising and operational management expertise to our team and thrives on creating experiences that inspire connection, strengthen community, and move missions forward.

Director of Family Support

Meet Tessa. Tessa leads our Rising Parents program and manages all our external facing community activities and events.

Tessa is a mother of twin boys, one of whom is on the autism spectrum. With a strong commitment to supporting the special needs community, she served on the board of the Rising Lights Project for two years before transitioning into a staff position.

She holds a degree in English from the University of Iowa and has spent the majority of her career in Human Resources. Her passion lies in connecting with and advocating for caregivers of individuals with special needs.

In her free time, Tessa enjoys family activities, boating, and reading. She deeply values the relationships she has cultivated within the Rising Lights Project and the Rising Moms group.

Director of Adult Programming

Meet Jess, a passionate advocate and leader dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities for others. Jess is a graduate of Aurora University with degrees in Recreational Therapy and Human-Animal Science.

As a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), Jess has always been driven by a desire to serve and uplift those around her. Her passion for supporting individuals with disabilities was deeply inspired by her Aunt Sara, who was born with Spina Bifida. Today, Jess honors her aunt’s legacy through her work, creating inclusive experiences and meaningful connections within her community.

Outside of her professional life, Jess enjoys reading and taking long walks to Chick-fil-A.

Adult CPR/AED and Child CPR certified

Root in Nature: Therapeutic Horticulture Ally

AllenForce: Therapeutic Recreation Veterans Certificate

Student Program Assistant

Meet Nola. Nola is a dedicated member of the Rising Lights team and a current student at Augusta College, where she is pursuing a degree in Occupational Therapy. Nola has been part of Rising Lights for four years—first as a high school volunteer and now as an employee during her breaks from school. Her passion for advocating for our adult students shows up in everything she does. Nola works hard to ensure every experience at RLP is meaningful, fun, and age‑appropriate, and she brings a thoughtful, steady presence to our community.

Molly Knight, MSW

Program Manager

Meet Molly Molly joined Rising Lights Project in August 2025, bringing deep expertise in disability services and inclusive programming.

Her background includes impactful work with Fox Valley Special Recreation Association (FVSRA), where she supported individuals with diverse needs through compassionate, community-centered care.

Molly holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from Western New Mexico University and is passionate about fostering belonging and empowerment.

At Rising Lights, she supports our Monday and Wednesday programs and leads our Thursday and Friday sessions with warmth, insight, and dedication.

Program Assistant

Meet Julie. Julie is a seasoned educator with over ten years of experience supporting diverse learners through individualized instruction and creative strategies.

She holds a Master of Arts in Education from Cleveland State University and brings strong skills in student engagement, communication, and team collaboration.

At Rising Lights Project, Julie fosters confidence and success in every participant she serves, contributing warmth, flexibility, and dedication to our inclusive community.

Friday ASL interpreter

Meet Kate. Kate joined Rising Lights Project in 2023, bringing her passion for inclusive communication and community connection.

She earned her degree in American Sign Language from the College of DuPage and serves as our interpreter on Monday evenings and during Friday garden programming.

Kate’s presence ensures that our spaces remain welcoming, accessible, and deeply rooted in belonging.