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:
THANK YOU to our Sunset Luau Event Sponsors!
A huge thank you to our 2022 Sunset Luau Event Sponsors! Get your tickets today!
REF Covers Moving Costs For Paralyzed Mother
When her paralyzed mother was suddenly left without a caretaker, a Virginia Beach woman had to relocate her from Georgia. The daughter was faced with unanticipated moving costs on top of having to take time off work to help her mother move. The River Ellis Foundation...
REF Assists With Funeral Costs After High Schooler Dies Suddenly
A high school student died suddenly and unexpectedly after an athletic conditioning practice at a Virginia Beach school. The River Ellis Foundation worked with his school to help the family cover the cost of his funeral. #GiveASunrise
REF Covers Funeral Costs For High School Student
After suffering an accidental gunshot wound, a Virginia Beach high school student passed away unexpectedly. Due to the sudden nature of his death, the family was unable to afford a funeral. The River Ellis Foundation helped cover these costs so the family could hold 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.