Our Story
We learned firsthand that tragedy doesn’t discriminate when our daughter, River, died at just two days old in September of 2018. Our world came crashing down around us as we found ourselves in the middle of every parent’s worst nightmare: instead of taking River home from the hospital to begin our lives together, we would be faced with the unthinkable task of planning her funeral.
Our Mission
Sh*t happens to good people and hardship doesn’t discriminate. Individuals in our own community are faced with tragedies and unimaginable adversity every single day. We want to be there for those people: the ones who’ve found themselves in the middle of something they couldn’t have prepared for. Those who don’t quite fit into a box, but need some support to get through the adversity they’re facing.
How You Can Help
There are several ways you can help The River Ellis Foundation and give a sunrise to someone in the Hampton Roads Community. We’d love for you to get involved!
Make a Donation
Help make a difference in the lives of those in our community who need it the most. Every dollar counts!
Nominate Someone
Do you know someone in the community who have recently faced an unexpected hardship and could use some extra support? Nominate them today!
Read latest news from our blog:
Recipient Testimonial: “I’m finally able to see a sunrise for the first time in a long time.”
As a single mother of two young girls, I found myself down on my luck a few months ago. I had just escaped a domestic violence situation that I had been in for years. I had moved to another state and had absolutely nothing, not even a vehicle to get myself and my...
What does it mean to Give A Sunrise?
To us, a sunrise symbolizes the hope that one needs after enduring a tragedy or unexpected hardship. Giving A Sunrise is providing an act of kindness. It’s giving support. It’s letting someone know they aren’t alone. It’s instilling hope for a brighter tomorrow. After...
Supporting a Local Teacher Through Tragedy
After being diagnosed with a dangerous pregnancy complication, a Virginia Beach teacher experienced the unthinkable when she suddenly required surgery to terminate her pregnancy due to the threat against her own health. This teacher found herself in the middle of a...
Make A Donation
Help make a difference in the lives of those in our community who need it the most. Every dollar counts!
Get Involved
Are you looking to get involved in giving back to your community? We have many volunteer opportunities and events throughout the year. If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, please complete the form on the volunteer page.