About Us

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The choices we make no matter how large or small, define who we become and the freedom to make those choices is invaluable to all of us.

The Short Family established Rising Village, Inc. in 2020 after searching for holistic care for their family members with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This vision stemmed from witnessing the challenges they faced when seeking schools, programs, quality care, and compassionate caregivers. As parents and caregivers, we are often faced with making monumental decisions regarding loved ones managing IDD and their care, appropriate placements, and delegating service needs.

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Through our vast array of services and experience, we take a holistic client-centered approach that allows Rising Village, Inc. to look at the individual’s physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual needs. We tailor our services to our client’s unique needs to promote comprehensive care and services, independence, dignity, and a successful transition into society.

This dream can become a reality if everyone – family, friends, stakeholders, and the community collectively works together to help those with a greater need than our own.

We are committed to ensuring that our clients are engaged, receive quality care and services, as well as equipped with the skills to live a productive life in the community

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LEADERSHIP TEAM

Being a great agency that puts its client’s needs and services first requires a team with personal experience in holistic care and the pursuit to make a difference.  At Rising Village, Inc. (RVI) each member of the management team has a loved one with a physical disability, IDD and/or learning disability.  This unique connection affords our staff the ability to identify with the concerns of the caregiver and the needs of the individuals we serve. RVI strives to provide optimal customer service, so each life we touch will achieve their goals and build their dreams. 

RVI staff Stacie Short

Stacie Short

Acting Executive Director

As parents and caregivers, we are often faced with making monumental decisions regarding loved ones managing IDD and their care, appropriate placement, and delegating service needs.  I understand because I had to advocate for my children’s rights and services.  Making life changing decisions to ensure they received quality care and services wasn’t an easy task.  I’ve worked earnestly with school systems advocating systemic inclusions, federal and state government agencies regarding benefits and services, and higher learning institutions. 
Due to my personal experiences, I am vastly knowledgeable of the trials and triumphs of raising children with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as physical disabilities. It wasn’t an easy feat, but we prevailed. I am proud to say, they have learned to work within their disabilities. My children are working in the field of their choice and homeowners living independently.  
That is why I decided to work at Rising Village, Inc. They embody those words by providing optimal care and working with caregivers and families to ensure their loved one achieves their goals.  When you have walked in the shoes of a caregiver, you have empathy and a greater understanding of their needs.  Working with a village that shares your experiences gives you a sense of comfort that your loved one is in great hands.

RVI staff Nafeesah Abdullah

Nafeesah Abdullah

Residential Director

I have been working as a caregiver for over 30 years. My journey started in 1997, working for NRH Hospital as a Patient Service Assistant. During that time, I had the opportunity to work with individuals receiving several different services and care. Some of my clients suffered from strokes or other debilitating illnesses, while others have been injured in accidents. Also, I work with individuals who are suffering from Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia, such as my mother who is currently under my care. 

My job is to help these individuals maintain their dignity and independence as they work through their challenges. One of the things I love the most about being a caregiver is the chance to make a difference in someone’s life. I find it incredibly rewarding to provide comfort and companionship to someone who needs a friend or someone that cares. I enjoy being able to help individuals maintain their independence. That’s one of many reasons why I became a caregiver and employee at Rising Village, Inc. I want to help people live their lives as independently as possible with a helping hand.

RVI staff Renay Smallwood

Renay Smallwood

Human Resources Manager

As a native Washingtonian, my years of career development and community integration started in the DC Public School System as an Educational Aide. Throughout the years I was afforded the opportunity of reappointed positions and promotions. I had the pleasure of assisting students, faculty, support staff, and families in my position as Guidance and Attendance Counselor. It was my responsibility to work in tandem with the court system, school administration, students, and parents to ensure students had the necessary support and services to achieve academic, personal, and career goals. Supporting the academic, personal, and social development of students can be challenging, but making a difference in the lives of others is a rewarding experience that surpasses any challenges you will face. In my position at Rising Village, Inc., I will utilize my skills and experience to hire and train skilled staff that are committed to making a difference in the lives of those we serve.

RVI staff Kattia Delizin

Kattia Delizin

Chief Financial Officer

“There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people.” It is an honor for me to be part of the Rising Village, Inc. family where the number one priority is the need of the clients. I have over 12 years of nonprofit financial experience working in the United States and abroad. I am looking forward to doing my best to take this journey with my new family – Rising Village, Inc. to lift others so they can achieve their dreams.

RVI staff Garrick Short

Garrick Short

Job Coach

We Offer Services in Several Areas

Rising Village, Inc. support services operate in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Harford County, Howard County, Calvert County, Charles County, Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, St. Mary’s County

RVI Location map

Anne Arundel County

Baltimore City

Baltimore County

Harford County

Howard County

Calvert County

Charles County

Montgomery County

Prince George's County

St. Mary's County