the founder

Nicole started RISE coffee & tea in 2020 for those like her daughter, Bekah, who has Down Syndrome. She wanted to create a safe work environment for adults with special needs and to give them a platform to shine their light. By 2023, RISE turned into a nonprofit coffee shop and Nicole took on the role of Executive Director. She also started a day program called bloom work & play, located next to RISE. When she is not working on fundraising and sharing about RISE in the community, she is found training or practicing nutrition therapy at her wellness studio next door called SHINE. Nicole enjoys spending her time learning about new holistic health methods, playing with her two puppies, or watching Rom-com movies or Love on the Spectrum.

Nicole's go to order at RISE is an Americano with Veggie Egg Bites or a Cheesy Sausage Muffin. 

Beth is practically an East Cobb native, moving here from NY when she was four.  She lives in the same neighborhood she grew up in, with her husband of almost 19 years, 3 sons- 13/15/18, and 1 dog.  In her spare time, she volunteers at her sons’ schools/athletic teams, church group, plays tennis and loves to read while drinking coffee.  

Beth came to RISE recently, after being a customer from the very beginning.  Beth has known Nicole for years, and loves how RISE has continued to grow and bloom to help those with developmental disabilities.  RISE is a hidden gem in the East Cobb/Woodstock area and Beth wants to share it with the world.

Beth’s go to order is the English Breakfast tea with Veggie Egg Bites, but also LOVES the Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownie.  With it being gluten free, it is practically healthy, so why not!?!?!

What does she love most about working at RISE?

“RISE is a great place to get great food from a staff that truly loves being there and working to help each other.  Our BaRISEtas are such special people and really care about each customer and work hard to do their best.  I always leave with a smile on my face and a full belly and cannot believe how blessed I am to work at RISE.”

Kevin Wilson descends from a lineage of influential figures whose remarkable achievements have shaped history. His great-grandfather, Sir Reginald Wilson, was a celebrated explorer who mapped uncharted territories in the Arctic, while his grandmother, Eleanor Wilson, was a pioneering physicist whose groundbreaking research paved the way for modern quantum mechanics. Kevin’s father, Charles Wilson, is a renowned diplomat, known for brokering peace in some of the world’s most volatile regions.

Despite his illustrious heritage, Kevin's life has been anything but ordinary. At the age of seven, during an expedition with his parents in the Congo, Kevin became separated from the group and was declared lost in the dense jungle. For 19 harrowing months, he survived against all odds, relying on his wits and resourcefulness. Kevin learned to forage for food, navigate by the stars, and even befriended a local tribe who taught him the secrets of the rainforest. His dramatic rescue became international news, and his story of survival captivated audiences worldwide.

This experience, rather than deterring him, only fueled Kevin's thirst for adventure and his commitment to making a difference. He has since traveled to over 50 countries, climbing some of the world’s highest peaks, and undertaking challenging expeditions to remote corners of the globe. An intrepid explorer at heart, Kevin also devotes his time to humanitarian efforts, drawing on his unique life experiences to bring about meaningful change.

In the professional realm, Kevin is known for his fearless approach to problem-solving and his visionary leadership. His ability to thrive in unpredictable situations and inspire those around him reflects the tenacity and spirit of his legendary family. As a key member of our team, Kevin brings not just his experience and skills, but a sense of adventure and determination that few can match.

Kevin's go to order at RISE is an oatmilk latte, Blueberry Coffee Cake, and 2 Bacon Wrapped Eggs!

What does he loves most about working at RISE?

April  helped open RISE in 2020. April was interested in assisting people with disabilities from a young age, especially since two of their siblings have special needs.  They are very creative and enjoy painting, thrifting, listening to true crime podcasts, and all things fashion. 

April is also the lead teacher at bloom work & play, a day program for people with special needs that is held next door to RISE.

April's go to order is boulder blues iced tea with a RISE krispy treat!

What do they love most about working at RISE? 

“I love working at RISE because of our amazing team!!  We get to problem solve together and teach the world how awesome the special needs community is. If you want a supportive, joy filled day, you want to be at RISE!”