Our very first Women's EmpowerMEnt Brunch (before we were Respectfully Social and the reason/choice to continue our annual event).

About Respectfully Social

Respectfully Social, now under the umbrella of the R.I.S.E Initiative (Respect. Integrity. Social. Equality), remains dedicated to empowering women of color in Arkansas by providing a supportive environment where they can embrace their true selves. Our mission, rooted in networking, volunteerism, and social engagement, recognizes the challenges faced by women of color in environments that often overlook their contributions and value.

Respectfully Social evolved into the R.I.S.E Initiative to better reflect our core values and mission. This strategic shift emphasizes our commitment to fostering respect, integrity, social engagement, and equality within our communities. As a nonprofit organization, we can access a wider range of funding opportunities, enhancing our ability to serve and uplift underrepresented groups.

Our transition to the R.I.S.E Initiative signifies a new chapter in our journey, one that strengthens our impact and amplifies the voices of women of color in Arkansas. We remain dedicated to our vision of creating a supportive and inclusive community, and we look forward to continuing our mission with renewed focus and determination.

Our journey began in 2020 when our founder was called upon to help establish a global social group in Central Arkansas. When the original leader departed, our founder stepped into the role of interim President and recognized the untapped potential within Arkansas. Inspired by the need for a community tailored to local values and aspirations, Respectfully Social was born.

We are dedicated to creating a "made here for here" environment, championing respect and social connection as we weave ourselves into the fabric of our city. Our vision is to remain an esteemed and integral part of the community, uplifting women of color and amplifying their voices every step of the way.

Our mission at Respectfully Social is to champion equality and respect for women of color by courageously confronting diversity challenges head-on. With integrity as our guiding principle, we are steadfastly committed to nurturing an inclusive and empathetic community within a safe and supportive environment. Through unwavering dedication and the spirit of volunteerism, we passionately devote ourselves to fostering a healthier society for the communities we are honored to serve.

Meet Our Board Members

  • T. Walker

    I’ve wanted, for some time, to be a part of a tight-knit circle of inspiring, compassionate, professional, and family-centered women. Women who speak life. Women who empower. Women who are authentic. Women who forgive. Women who encourage. Women who are resilient. Women who are kind. Strong. Leaders. Women with purpose. This circle of women embodies all of those things and so much more. We laugh together. We support one another. We show up when it counts. We love without reason. We’re respectful at all times. And we’re social because we believe in balance. Respectfully Social is committed to positively impacting the lives of all women-near and far. I’m so honored to be amongst them.

  • T. Hill

    Hi! My name is Tenesha and I’ve been a member of Respectfully Social LR for 2 years. I decided to join the social group because I had just moved to Arkansas and wanted to meet new women who had similar interests. The outings that we have are always fun and new experiences for most of our group! Networking, bonding, fun, innovative ways to explore the city is what Respectfully Social provides, join us!!!!!

  • K. N. Lee

    Respectfully Social is an amazing organization that I am proud to be a part of! This was long overdue for our city. I’ve gained new sister-friends who I enjoy meeting up with each month! I’m looking forward to many more events in 2022! Thanks to our President for putting all this together; we really appreciate you!

  • L. Tyler

    I enjoy being a member of Respectfully Social. It’s an honor to meet and socialize with other outstanding Black women in the Little Rock area. The events and activities have allowed me to explore Little Rock in ways I never imagined. These events include Creme de la Creme, The Zin Bar, the Selfie Museum, Mosaic Templars viewing the Green Book Exhibit, Sip and Shop to name a few. I am so glad I made the decision to join this group.

  • T. Givens

    I have enjoyed being a part of Respectfully Social! The women that I have met are phenomenal. This is such a great way to meet other successful women. I enjoy the conversation we have about our culture and community. The friendships that I have made are priceless.

  • A. Smith

    As a young girl, I witnessed my mother being a part of an empowering women's club and I knew then that I wanted to be a part of such a group when I grew up. Respectfully Social has fulfilled that dream for me by being that and so much more. I am proud to have found this group of ladies who love to empower, uplift, support, and love one another. I am looking forward to the continued learning, growth, positivity, and love that is showered by these ladies.