OUR LEADERSHIP
We’re led by well-known intellectuals that are always making efforts to grow our internal and external strategy.
Barbara Tate
Chief Executive Officer
Barbara has been a Human Services-Board Certified Practitioner (HS-BCP) since 2015, which validates that she has met professional credentialing standards in education, practical knowledge, and experience in human services. Barbara obtained her Work Incentive Practitioner, Veteran’s, and Youth Work Incentive Practitioner Credentials through Cornell University, which allows her to provide benefits planning services to those who receive social security benefits and are interested in returning to work. In addition to these credentials, Barbara is a Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP) through the Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE) since 2014.
Further, Barbara is a CARF Surveyor with extensive knowledge of implementing the CARF standards. Barbara is known for her consultative approach through feedback provided by organisations she has surveyed; Barbara conducted 10 surveys in 2023.
Barbara was born and raised in Northern Virginia. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Administration of Justice from George Mason University, she continued her academic career. She earned a Master of Science in Criminal Justice, emphasising Behavior Analysis, from St. Joseph’s University. Barbara lives with her son, Nathan, in Prince William County, VA.
Barbara has worked in various leadership roles, including being a CEO for eight years, and she has held countless human service positions, including being a Support Coordinator, Case Manager, and Program Director, to name a few. Barbara continues her work by serving on numerous Boards of Directors, including NABWIS and New Creatures-in-Christ Ministries. Barbara previously served on Prince William County’s Disability Services Board (DSB) and was appointed by then-Supervisor Pete Candland.
Heather Jones
Chief Operating Officer
Heather Jones leads the company’s program operations. Recognized for teaching and providing outstanding support, along with the development of individualized education plans for students at all different learning levels and individual support plans for adults with all different levels of support needs. Heather is passionate about helping individuals with special needs succeed in conquering the daily challenges in their lives.
Heather was born and raised in Michigan, where she attended Michigan State University. After earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Special Education with an emphasis on Learning Disabilities, Heather taught Elementary Special Education classes and quickly became intrigued by her own ability to educate a little boy with Autism whom others insisted didn’t have the ability to learn. Respectively, Heather continued her academic career and earned a Master of Arts degree in Special Education with an emphasis in Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Heather held a State of Michigan Teaching Provisional Certificate and taught Special Education until she moved to the State of Virginia in 2017 and discovered her new love for Human Services when she accepted a position as a Job Coach for a Supported Employment company. Since then, Heather has worked in various supervisory roles in the Human Service field and has further assisted the company in developing additional Medicaid waiver programs. Her compassion and genuine ability to connect with individuals and their support teams allow her to effectively work with special needs individuals of all ages.
Alea Bryar
Chief of Staff
Alea Bryar is a multifaceted professional with a diverse background in both the private and nonprofit sectors. Alea brings extensive experience in administrative assistance and is adept at managing various clerical tasks and offering staff support. Alea is deeply devoted to delivering outstanding support and making a significant, positive difference in her workplace and beyond.
Alea honed her leadership skills during her tenure with the Fredericksburg Area Service League, where she served on the Executive Board, including a term as President. During her tenure, she spearheaded strategic planning and community outreach initiatives which significantly amplified the organization’s impact. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Alea is advancing her education in sociology at Fort Hays State University.
Residing in Fredericksburg, Virginia, Alea’s personal interests include photography, researching family history, and cherishing moments with her granddaughter.
Kirsten Lewis
Senior Program Director
Offering more than two decades of Education- Administration, Kirsten is passionate about supporting and guiding all individuals, at all ages. Her unique background in Early childhood education, and Criminal Justice and leader-based management, brings the prefect balance to the Programs here at RISES.
With her high energy and motivational style of leadership, Kirsten is devoted to counting her education and furthering her career in Human Services. As Senior Program Director, Kirsten oversees all Programs in RISES.
Kirsten is a firm believer in the saying, “Everyone deserves the same respect and care.”
Kirsten is a mother and a wife. The passion to lead and support her directors and individuals will be the priority. Fostering an open-door policy, please reach out for any questions or concerns.
Kaysi Galyen
Administrative Assistant
Melanie Tate
Director of Finance
Vacant
HR Manager
Bobby Hunger
Program Director Region 1-Virginia
Bobby Hunger, honored to serve as the Program Director for Region 1 at Rise Services. My journey in the field of human services is deeply rooted in my commitment to making a positive impact on people’s lives.
I am a proud alumnus of James Madison University, where I earned my Bachelor of Science Degree in Health Sciences. This academic foundation has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of health-related principles, enriching my ability to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of individuals and communities.
My professional journey has been guided by a sincere passion for helping people. This commitment extends beyond the workplace, as I have dedicated numerous years to volunteering with organizations such as Virginia 4-H, Special Olympics, and Camp Follow the Leader. These experiences have allowed me to witness the transformative power of compassion and support in the lives of those in need.
Born and raised in Front Royal, Virginia, I have gained a profound love for outdoor activities. I enjoy hiking and fishing. Exploring the natural beauty that surrounds us has not only been a source of personal joy but has also informed my belief in the therapeutic power of nature.
My name is Amber Petty and I am thrilled to be the Program Director for Region 2.
I have over ten year’s experience working in the Special Education field. My passion for helping people with disabilities developed in High School when I started to support student in class with Autism. I then created an after school inclusion club!
From there I started volunteering for Special Olympics as a cheer coach and being a camp counselor for Camp Spirit! I have been a Paraprofessional, Job Coach and Behavior Support to name a few!
I was born and raised in Stafford, VA but recently moved back to Virginia from Colorado Springs! In my free time I enjoy hanging out with my family, being outside and watching my favorite Bravo shows!
I am eager to support all our clients at Rise Services in having a successful career in the community.
Amber Petty
Executive Assistant
Vacant
Job Coach Supervisor for Region Maryland
Vacant
Job Coach Supervisor - Maryland
Get in touch
- Email: Info@ccsandrises.org
- Phone number: 571-389-3630
- Fax: 703-214-6239
- 800 Corporate Drive, Suite 301, Stafford, VA 22554