About Us
The R.I.P.E. Roadmap leads a path of growth through Empowerment, Resilience, Holistic Development, Equity & Access, and Excellence. We foster confidence, strengthen resilience, and nurture the whole individual, with an intentional
focus on mental and emotional well-being. R.I.P.E. expands opportunity and drives excellence to turn
potential into lasting impact.
R.I.P.E.'s mission is to empower youth and families through mentorship, mental health support, and life skills development. By providing guidance, resources, and a supportive environment, the program helps individuals build confidence, overcome challenges, and achieve personal and academic success.
R.I.P.E. envisions a community where youth and families have the support, skills, and opportunities to thrive, achieve their goals, and contribute positively to the world around them. Through strong partnerships and a commitment to growth, we strive to create lasting impact by nurturing confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose in every individual.
OUR INSPIRATION
Shemika Caldwell-Owens, Founder of Retooling Individuals to Pursue Excellence (RIPE)
Founded in 2021 by Shemika Caldwell-Owens, Retooling Individuals to Pursue Excellence (RIPE) was born from a lifelong passion for serving others and creating opportunities for individuals and families to thrive. Throughout her life, Shemika has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to helping those in need, giving selflessly to her community and advocating for positive change.
Driven by a vision to empower youth and strengthen families, Shemika established RIPE to provide resilience-building programs, life skills development, mentorship, and supportive services that equip young people for long-term success. She believes that every individual deserves the opportunity to overcome challenges, discover their strengths, and reach their fullest potential.
Recognizing that many families face barriers that require comprehensive solutions, Shemika also founded and established a network of businesses, including Jericho Staffing, LLC, We Care Sitting Services, LLC, and Hands of Hope Behavioral Health, LLC. Together, these organizations help bridge critical service gaps by providing workforce opportunities, caregiving support, behavioral health services, and resources that promote stability and growth.
RIPE serves as the cornerstone of Shemika's mission to create lasting, positive changes. Through strategic partnerships, compassionate leadership, and commitment to service, RIPE works to empower youth, strengthen families, and build healthier communities.
Shemika's dedication, vision, and heart for service continue to inspire those around her. Through RIPE and her network of organizations, she is creating pathways to hope, healing, opportunity, and excellence for future generations.