Team - RISE UP FOR YOUTH

Staff

Dr. Shareika Fisher
Executive Director

The most inspiring part of my job is providing opportunities for the students we serve and being able to give back to the community of Wichita, which I value greatly.

When I was younger, I was going to be an international superstar!

The most important thing I learned in high school was you have to go after what you want, which I later learned was the first step in becoming a self-advocate.

(316) 641-8015
RUFYexecdir@riseupforyouth.org

About the Executive Director

David Gilkey
Co-Founder & Youth Champion:
Brotherhood

The most inspiring part of my job is seeing our student's lives change.

When I was younger, I was pretty sure I'd be in the NFL.

The most important thing I learned in high school was that it gets you ready for life.

David is a member of the Wichita Gang Coalition and Real Men Real Heroes organization. He was nominated for NAACP Person of the Year 2008 and was a feature presenter at the 2010 Governor's Conference.

(316) 833-3035
dgilkey@riseupforyouth.org

Lynn Gilkey
Co-Founder & Youth Champion:
Sisterhood

The most inspiring part of my job is being in a position to make an impact in the lives of our students.

When I was younger, I was pretty sure I'd be the person I needed when I was growing up.

The most important thing I learned in high school was to stay true to yourself and don't be a follower.

(316) 833-3224
lgilkey@riseupforyouth.org

Emily Whiteside
Marketing and Development Coordinator

The most inspiring part of my job is helping students tell their stories. I am always floored by the resilience and ingenuity of our students!

When I was younger, I had mentors that poured into me even when I was an absolute pain to be around. Their wisdom got me through high school, college, and, now, motherhood.

The most important thing I learned in high school was everybody deserves to be seen, and everybody has a story worth listening to. It's our job to keep our eyes and ears open.

(316) 258-9810
RUFYmarketing@riseupforyouth.org

Bri Houston
Program Coordinator

The most inspiring part of my job is providing opportunities that directly impact the youth that we serve through mentorship, community and support. I am passionate about making sure the next generation has all of the core tools necessary to have a full and successful life.

When I was younger, I traveled many states as a liturgical dancer performing. Also I was a huge dare devil but then something about having children changes you and now I'm cautious about everything. LOL

The most important thing I learned in high school was Its okay not to get it right sometimes, It's part of learning and growing. But don't stay there; get back up, learn from your mistakes and pray. The race is not given to the swift, nor to the strong but to the one who endures to the end.

(316) 833-7231
bhouston@riseupforyouth.org

Courtney Price-Dukes
Sisterhood Youth Champion

The most inspiring part of my job is helping students understand the adversity in their life does not have to be the end of their story. I want to help instill the mindset that they are more than a statistic or the odds stacked against them.

When I was younger, I decided, instead of allowing my story to hinder me, I would use my story to help others.
The most important thing I learned in high school was Quality is better than quantity. Seek out individuals that will add value to your life. Find friends that will stand by your side on the bad and good days. To this day, I still keep in contact with my high school friends because I did not focus on basic relationships with many people, but I focused on deep relationships with a few select people. Surround yourself with positivity.

316-833-7150
cpricedukes@riseupforyouth.org

Chris Tyler
Youth Champion:
Brotherhood

The most inspiring part of my job is broadening students' horizons on a daily basis. I want students to understand that their circumstances do not dictate their outcomes.

When I was younger, I wanted to a be a good reflection of the Wichita community and always be in position to help and empower others.

The most important thing I learned in high school was to always be yourself no matter what. Run your own race and remember that education is the key to success!

(316) 833-2253
ctyler@riseupforyouth.org

Kayla King
Youth Champion Intern:
Sisterhood

The most inspiring part of my job is having a front-row seat to watch students listen, engage, grow, build friendships, and be vulnerable with one another.

When I was younger, I couldn’t wait to grow up, but now that I am older, I miss being a kid! It’s true; what they say, time flies by!

The most important thing I learned in high school was that your education is one thing no one can ever take away from you!

(316) 202-0228
intern@riseupforyouth.org