Erin Polley

Erin Polley has a diverse work experience in various roles and industries. Starting in 2003, they worked as a Program Associate at the American Friends Service Committee, managing logistics for a nationally touring exhibit. From 2007 to 2014, Erin served as the National Coordinator for the If I Had a Trillion Dollars Youth Film Festival, overseeing content development and outreach. Additionally, they held the position of Program Director at the AFSC, where they established a statewide office and led trainings on social justice issues.

In 2012, Erin founded Heirloom Catering & Events, a catering and events company. Erin managed all aspects of clients' events, including vendor coordination and hospitality.

From 2017 to 2019, Erin worked at The Hot Room where they held multiple roles. Erin started as a Yoga Instructor and accumulated over 1500 hours of teaching experience. Erin then became the Social Media Manager, spearheading successful campaigns and growing the company's online presence. Finally, Erin served as the Director of Community Engagement & Global Retreats, where they managed strategic partnerships, led philanthropic efforts, and created and facilitated wellness retreats.

Currently, Erin is the CEO and Co-Founder of Rising Collective, an organization focused on empowering individuals to prevent crises and provide care through learning opportunities and community development.

Erin Polley has a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Cultural Studies from Columbia College Chicago, which they obtained between the years 2003 and 2008. Currently, they are pursuing an Executive Masters degree in Philanthropic Studies from Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, which they started in 2018 and is expected to complete in 2019. Erin also holds additional certifications, including E-RYT 200 from Yoga Alliance, which they obtained in June 2021, and Mental Health First Aid from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, which they obtained in May 2021. Furthermore, they previously obtained a RYT 500 certification from Yoga Alliance in May 2017.