Are you a mom looking to learn about advocacy?

We’re excited to announce that the RISERS Parent Leadership program application period is now open for the 2025-2026 year!

What is the MomsRising RISERS Early Learning parent leadership program?

The RISERS program is a parent leadership program for moms and caregivers of children ages 0-5. 

The RISERS program is anchored in early childhood – issues like child care, maternal mental health, and other prenatal-to-five issues, but because we know we don’t lead single-issue lives (shout out to Audre Lorde) we often touch on and are able to explore issues related to healthcare, public school education and  reproductive rights, just to name a few. 

What is the time commitment for the RISERS program? 

The program runs from November - June with monthly meetings and a community project component that is completed in the summer months.  

Participants will learn: 

• How to advocate for family-friendly policies 

• How Congress works and how bills become law

• How to put together community events 

• How to hold their elected officials accountable 

• how they can advocate for the change they need in their communities 

• To develop their speaking, writing and social media skills for advocacy  

• How to strengthen their skills to become leaders in their communities 

Past RISERS have reported gaining confidence that allows them to raise their voices for their own families and families all over the country. 

I’m so grateful for this experience. The cohort gave me a safe space to connect with other parents, share ideas, and grow as a leader in my community. I appreciated the honest conversations and practical tools that I can carry forward to advocate for families like mine. -Chauntay 

“I don’t need to hear more! I’m ready to apply!” Click here if you’re ready to go.

I am interested… How do I know if I am a good candidate? 

Every year our goal is to bring together a diverse group of mamas and caregivers that will come together to learn from our planned sessions and also from each other.

REQUIRED CRITERIA: 

• You are a parent of a child ages 0-5 OR a child care educator. 

• You live in one of the 50 states. 

• You can attend our virtual monthly meetings and participate actively in the discussion. 

• You are committed to building a nation where families can thrive! 

What do I get from being a RISER? 

As a RISER, in addition to the advocacy, civics and leadership trainings you will receive, you will be part of a community of like-minded mothers who are looking to raise their voice to make change for our families. 

Because we know you're busy and value your time, you'll receive a stipend for being a RISER. You will also receive ongoing support and connection from MomsRising staff to be sure you have all you need to meet your advocacy goals in the program. 

What kind of activities do RISERS do? 

Here are some examples of how RISERS are advocating: 

• Writing letters to their legislators

• Talking to media 

• Dropping material off at their lawmakers’ offices 

• Meeting with policy and lawmakers

• Sharing their parent expertise with policy makers and organizations 

• Writing blog posts and op-eds 

• Speaking at school board meetings 

• AND MORE! 

   [This program] has given me the confidence to be more vocal and organized with community activism and grassroots activism.  

  - Cori, Michigan 

Here’s a snapshot of the types of actions that our latest RISERS have taken in this last cycle: 

Rosdaly (Bronx, NY) held a meetup where she spoke about mental health and advocacy. 

Meghan (Houston, Texas) shared her struggles accessing affordable child care at the Reintroduction of the Child Care for Working Families Act in Washington, DC. 

 

Alisia (Port St. Lucie, Florida) attended a Good Trouble event in her community. 

 

RISERS are supported to become leaders in their communities and raise their voices on the issues that are important to families.

RISERS represent racial and ethnic diversity, as well as diversity in life experiences, language, family structure, religious background, and socioeconomic status. 

We welcome single parents, student parents, foster and adoptive parents, early childhood educators, parents of children with developmental needs and medical needs, and LGBTQ+ families, and immigrant parents.  

We welcome RISERS from all walks of life! We want to hear from you, especially if you bring a fresh and nontraditional perspective. Ready to apply? Click here. 

Application timeline*: 

• Application period is open from July 24th- September 24th, 2025 

• Applications will be reviewed September - October 2025. 

• Cohort will start in November 2025 

• Virtual meetings take place from November 2025-June 2026 

• Community projects are planned and executed from May-August 2026.

*Please note: dates are subject to change.

Questions? Email risers@momsrising.org