Our Mission
Rising Sun Development Center’s mission is to promote community well-being and long-term resilience by strengthening public health, economic stability, youth development, and sustainable agriculture in communities with need. RSDC partners with local, national, and international community-based organizations, NGOs, and public agencies to provide research, technical assistance, training, capacity building, and direct support that helps communities identify challenges, build assets, and implement practical, culturally grounded solutions. Through innovative approaches to health infrastructure development, policy-informed practice, youth empowerment, and sustainability planning, Rising Sun supports communities in advancing opportunity, shared prosperity, and self-determined pathways to thriving families and healthy futures.
About Us
R.I.S.E. Come-Unity Garden
Rising Sun Development Center stewards the R.I.S.E. Come-Unity Garden—Atlanta’s oldest community garden located in a public park. The garden provides fresh food for neighbors in need, hands-on agricultural education, volunteer opportunities, and a welcoming green space where people can connect, learn, and build community.
Aya Farms
Aya Farms is RSDC’s sustainable agriculture and food-production initiative. Historically maintained by family and friends, the farm is supported by dedicated farmers, volunteers, and community partners. Aya Farms grows fresh, culturally relevant food while promoting agricultural education, community food security, and economic opportunity. As the farm expands, our goal is to increase production and create paid agricultural roles that support long-term sustainability.
We collaborate with farms and agricultural organizations throughout Metro Atlanta—including HABESHA, Shamba, Iremide Farms, Nature’s Candy Farms, Gangstas to Growers, and others—to strengthen the local food ecosystem and expand access to fresh, locally grown food.
Learn more about Aya Farms and Ayaresa Eco-Village.