A diverse group of ten women and one man are posing together for a photo in front of a colorful mural with people and abstract patterns. The women are smiling and dressed in various stylish outfits, with some sitting and others standing.

About us

A group of nine diverse young people standing together in front of a backdrop with a logo that says 'Higher Ground International' and a leaf design. They are smiling and dressed in black tops and traditional African patterned skirts, posing for a photo at an event.

Who We Are

Since 2008, we have walked alongside our neighbors, offering food, care, education, and a place to belong. We meet people where they are, honor their cultures, and help them feel supported, connected, and strong.

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Our Mission

Higher Ground International helps people build better lives through support, education, and community. We restore dignity, empower lives, and keep peace. Our work centers on and celebrates the cultural heritage of the people we serve.

Our Vision

We believe in a future where every person feels valued, included, and able to succeed.

Five wavy lines in yellow, red, white, red, and red on a black background.

Dignity. Empowerment. Peace.

Dignity. Empowerment. Peace.

Four women standing together, smiling, at an indoor event. They are wearing name tags and casual clothing, with a display and boxes in the background.

Our Story

Higher Ground International was founded in 2008 by Henrietta White-Holder, a native of Liberia. Henrietta lived through the Liberian civil wars. Her family lost their home and loved ones, and her mother and sisters fled to Ghana for safety.

Henrietta started HGI with a gift of $1,000. Her goal was to help newly arrived refugees who had survived the trauma of war. Over the years, HGI grew. Today, we serve all vulnerable and underserved individuals, no matter their background.

We continue to listen, learn, and respond to what our community needs most.

Our Story Timeline

2008

Our Beginning

HGI is founded in Providence, RI, with a $1,000 gift.

Community Response

Served over 20,000 people through vaccines, testing, and community resources.

2020
2020

Food Access Expansion

Launched culturally appropriate food distribution for the broader community.

Census Impact

Helped ensure Rhode Island maintained its congressional representation.

2021
2022

Immigration Fairness

Supported 25 Liberian refugees in achieving immigration status.

Sweetie Care

Expanded elder services through culturally responsive care.

2024
2025

2 Million Bags

Distributed our 2 millionth bag of food.

Rukiya Center

Moved toward our new permanent home.

2026

Our Home: The Rukiya Center

The Rukiya Center is HGI's new home. It is over 10,600 square feet, and it is being built in two phases.

  • Phase 1: Administrative offices and Health & Wellness programs.

  • Phase 2: Workforce and Economic Development programs.

The Center includes a culturally appropriate food pantry, a cultural events center, an outdoor community-gathering space, staff offices, and many program rooms.

New building with a sign that reads "Higher Ground International", surrounded by landscaping and a parking lot, under a partly cloudy blue sky.
A diverse group of eight women and one man, smiling and posing for a photo, in front of a colorful mural depicting people and abstract designs.

Meet Our Team

Change does not always happen on its own. It takes people who are dedicated and committed to making the world a better place. We are fortunate to have outstanding change-makers at Higher Ground International.

Learn more