Risë Hayes

Risë Hayes is an autistic, bisexual woman who has lived in Virginia for 11 years. She grew up in California in extreme poverty, even being homeless for a time. Her parents worked multiple jobs to make ends meet while homeschooling her and her siblings. This experience has helped shape her views and values to support the people who need it most. College brought her to Lynchburg as she attended Liberty University and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies in Natural Science and Government with minors in Biology and Criminal Justice. During Risë’s time at Liberty University, she started to learn about Lynchburg and Virginia as a whole. Once she graduated, she managed to buy a house, a phenomenon that she believes is so out of place today. For the last six years, Risë has been living in a working-class neighborhood with people who are just getting by. Seeing her neighbors and friends struggle has made her passionate about how she can help them out. Risë Hayes is running for office because she knows that if everyone works together, they can inspire change that will create a better community for everybody.