Upcoming Event: RISE’s Annual Fundraiser – A Night of Nations

Refugee & Immigrant Self-Empowerment (RISE) is proud to announce its upcoming annual fundraiser, A Night of Nations, an evening dedicated to celebrating the resilience, achievements, and cultural richness of Syracuse’s refugee and immigrant communities. This highly anticipated event will take place soon at the elegant SKY Armory in downtown Syracuse.

A Night of Nations is more than just a fundraiser—it’s a cultural gathering that brings together community members, supporters, partners, and friends of RISE to honor the impact of our programs and highlight the stories of those we serve. The event will feature a formal dinner, entertainment, and opportunities to engage with the mission of RISE in a deeper, more personal way.

The evening will include a keynote address by New York State Assemblywoman Pamela Hunter, who has long championed issues surrounding veteran support, women’s empowerment, and equitable access to education and employment. We will also celebrate two distinguished honorees who have made lasting contributions to the refugee and immigrant community in Central New York.

What to Expect

Multicultural Dinner: Enjoy a thoughtfully prepared meal featuring traditional dishes from African, Southeast Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines, representing the diverse cultures that RISE serves.
Keynote Address: Be inspired by the words of Assemblywoman Pamela Hunter as she shares insights on community, leadership, and empowerment.
Community Honors: Recognizing individuals who have gone above and beyond in supporting refugee and immigrant families through advocacy, service, and leadership.
Networking and Engagement: Connect with other community members, local leaders, and RISE supporters who share a passion for inclusion, equity, and opportunity.

Tickets will be made available soon. We also invite local businesses, organizations, and individuals to consider sponsoring the event. Sponsorship not only supports RISE’s mission—it is a direct investment in the empowerment of New Americans building new lives in Syracuse.

For ticket announcements, sponsorship opportunities, or general questions, please contact us directly at info@syracuserise.org or call 315-214-4480. Stay tuned for more updates!

Honoree: Margaret “Meg” O’Connell

Margaret “Meg” O’Connell is a respected community leader and the Executive Director of the Allyn Family Foundation. With a strong background in nonprofit development, she has spent her career addressing issues such as early childhood education, family wellness, and economic mobility. Her leadership has helped support critical initiatives across Central New York, including RISE’s Women Empowerment Program, which fosters confidence, leadership, and career development among refugee and immigrant women.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Meg serves on multiple community boards and collaborates with partners to build long-term strategies that address systemic challenges. Her dedication to the well-being of women and children, and her ongoing efforts to elevate underrepresented voices, make her an invaluable force in the region.

Honoree: Pastor Bhim Biswa

Pastor Bhim Biswa is a deeply respected spiritual leader and community advocate within the Bhutanese-Nepali diaspora in Syracuse. After spending two decades in a refugee camp in Nepal, Bhim arrived in the United States determined to support others facing similar transitions. He founded the Syracuse Nepali Church and quickly became a vital source of guidance for newcomers.

Through his leadership, Bhim has facilitated access to social services, interpretation support, and emotional and spiritual counseling for hundreds of refugee families. He’s also known for organizing community sports events, such as the “Mini World Cup,” to promote unity and wellness among youth. His annual Thanksgiving and “Pray for the City” events demonstrate his belief in interfaith cooperation and civic engagement. Bhim’s compassionate leadership continues to uplift and unify the community he serves.

Keynote Speaker: Assemblywoman Pamela J. Hunter

Assemblywoman Pamela Hunter is a U.S. Army veteran and a dedicated public servant representing the 128th Assembly District, which includes parts of Syracuse and surrounding towns. With a background in Human Resources and Information Systems, she brings both technical and leadership expertise to her role. As the only female veteran in the New York State Legislature, she has been a vocal advocate for women veterans and has worked to expand access to critical services for marginalized populations.

Hunter serves on several influential committees, including Veterans’ Affairs, Social Services, Transportation, and Energy. Her legislative priorities focus on strengthening public safety, supporting workforce development, improving access to affordable housing, and protecting vulnerable communities. Her commitment to equity and inclusion aligns closely with RISE’s mission, making her the ideal keynote speaker for this meaningful event.

Assemblywoman Hunter lives in Syracuse with her husband and son and remains an active participant in community initiatives aimed at fostering opportunity and justice across Central New York.