Meet Rise Above's Leadership

Sarah Baldiga

Co-founder & Executive Director

Sarah has a Masters degree in Nonprofit Management from Worcester State College and received her bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Saint Anselm College. She has worked in nonprofit organizations her entire career and has experience with grant writing, marketing, fundraising, and volunteer management. Before being named Rise Above’s first Executive Director, Sarah was the Associate Director of Development at Jumpstart, a Boston-based nonprofit. Sarah lives in Hopkinton and enjoys being outdoors hiking and skiing.

Cassie Giardina

Director of Programs & Outreach

Cassie joined Rise Above in January 2024. Cassie has a Master’s degree in Nonprofit Management and a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Worcester State University. Her entire career she has worked in nonprofit organizations that focus on positive youth development and community organizing. Before Rise Above, Cassie worked as Program Director for Cultural Exchange Through Soccer (CETS) in addition to coaching soccer, being a mentor, and facilitating sexuality education programs. Cassie lives in and is from Western, MA.

Julie Stanwood-Higgins

Program Manager

Julie has extensive experience in the nonprofit world, most recently serving as the Executive Director of Friends of Families in Transition, which provided direct care to families facing crisis and homelessness. Previously, she was the Central Massachusetts coordinator for Birthday Wishes. Julie has been a long-time advocate for children in state care and the source of practical, hands-on support for biological and foster families navigating special education, trauma and healthcare. She and her family have been fostering for more than 6 years, and she also serves on the Framingham DCF Area Board and as a Foster Parent Liaison. Julie and her family live in Northboro and enjoy spending time together playing and watching sports being outdoors.

Stephani Spencer

Smiles Coordinator