Board Member Highlight: Rhonda VanSchoonhoven

Director, Goodhue County Court Services

How long have you been a RiseUp Partnership Board member? 

I have been on the RiseUp Partnership Board since the beginning when it was called Red Wing Youth Outreach. I took a break from the full Board for a few years in 2013; however, I stayed involved in the programming committee and HR. I came back to the Board in 2021. 

What drew you to RiseUp Partnership?

I was a founding member of RiseUp in the 1990s. At the time, I was serving as a Juvenile Probation Officer for Goodhue County and wanted to be involved in expanding services and support for at-risk youth.

What’s your favorite RiseUp program or event?

What I value most about RiseUp is the mentoring it provides. Both the informal connections youth build with staff and the formal mentoring programs provide young people with a caring person in their lives, which can be life-changing. RiseUp also creates meaningful opportunities for youth to grow through leadership roles and job experiences that help them develop skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose.

Why do you think others should get involved in supporting the work of RiseUp Partnership?

Every young person deserves the chance to grow, learn, and take on responsibilities that help them build confidence and find direction in life. By volunteering with RiseUp, you can help create those opportunities and make a lasting difference in a young person’s future.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Goodhue County?

There are so many great things to enjoy in beautiful Goodhue County! I love taking a walk downtown, stopping at Mandy’s or Simple Abundance for a meal or healthy drink (kombucha or pressed juice), and visiting with the people you meet there. I also love to bike the Cannon Valley Trail.