ABOUT US

What’s the Women R.I.S.E mission?

Our Mission

We are dedicated to empowering local women in business through community engagement, education, and networking opportunities.

Our Goals

  • Build a Strong Network: Facilitate regular networking events to connect women entrepreneurs.

  • Create Online Community: Establish a digital platform for members to share resources and experiences through our Facebook Group

  • Host Educational Workshops & Featured Speakers: Offer workshops and Guest Speakers on key business topics to enhance business, skills and knowledge.

  • Encourage Cross-Industry Connections: Host events that bring together entrepreneurs from diverse fields for collaboration.

  • Provide Referral Opportunities: Engage members in events so they can foster their own referral opportunities

  • Create A Sisterhood: We are more than just a networking group, we are a sisterhood of amazing women who also happen to be entrepreneurs

Meet the Women R.I.S.E Committee

  • Laura Penner

    Women R.I.S.E Founder & CEO — Brand & Wellness Coach

    Laura started the Women Entrepreneurs Association Facebook group in Fall 2023. She coordinates our monthly networking events, Facebook group, website, committee organization, WEA Partnered Events and marketing to keep this community growing and thriving!

    She is a Professional Photographer specializing in Branding, Headshots, Family and Events. She's been in the field of photography for 15+ years and works with you to help create and bring your vision to life. You can learn more about her work or book a shoot with her here:

    Living Potential Photography

  • Shannon Maloney

    Volunteer Coordinator — Professional Organizer

    Shannon loves collaborating with and supporting women, especially entrepreneurs, making WEA one of her favorite groups to serve and see flourish! We is also our WEA Volunteer Coordinator.

    Shannon is the founder of Elevate by Design LLC, an organizational design firm. Her expertise is in home, business and life organizing, working with clients to organize everything from their thoughts to their belongings. Coupled with a robust referral network, Shannon's greatest joy is connecting people with products, services and providers for the benefit of all.

  • Kris van Genderen

    WEA Social Media Manager — Legacy Filmmaker & Healing Arts Practitioner

    Women supporting women creates a ripple of empowerment and connection, and through social media, she helps us spread awareness to amplify our impact and build community.

    Kris is a legacy filmmaker, EOL doula, and breathwork facilitator who also loves holding cacao and breathwork sessions to inspire connection and healing. With a background in journalism and over 15 years of filmmaking experience, she blends storytelling, mindfulness, and sacred rituals to help individuals and families preserve their legacies. Through her heartfelt work, Kris celebrates the beauty and sacredness of life’s journey.

Interested in volunteering at one of our next events?

We are looking for volunteers to support our networking events including set up, cleanup, greeting, and providing snacks or non alcoholic drinks. All volunteers will receive a special shout out in addition to a flyer featuring their name, photo, and business info at the event you work at.