The Maxfield Family Foundation expands access to education for young girls through continued support of Mali Rising.
(PRUnderground) November 4th, 2025
Derek and Shelaine Maxfield, through the Maxfield Family Foundation, continue to empower students globally by funding critical educational initiatives that remove barriers to learning and promote gender equity. The Foundation’s most recent grant to Mali Rising provided full school fee support for girls, ensuring continued access to education while reducing the risk of early marriage.
Over the past year, Mali Rising reached more than 4,300 students across 29 schools, strengthening classrooms and communities through scholarships, school construction, teacher training, and literacy programs.
Notes Shelaine Maxfield, “Our goal has always been to help children see what’s possible when someone believes in them. When we invest in a girl’s education, we invest in an entire community’s strength and potential.”
The Maxfields’ ongoing support has also financed more than 1,365 new textbooks for seventh- and eighth-grade students, transforming classrooms into more engaging, student-centered environments.
In response to the support provided by the Maxfields, Mali Rising Executive Director, Lisa Hudson, released a statement that said, in part, “Thanks to the Maxfield Family Foundation, students in Mali are gaining the tools and opportunities they deserve. Last year, their support brought new textbooks into our classrooms; this year, their generosity is helping girls continue their education through full school fee support.”
The Foundation’s contributions have supported a range of Mali Rising programs, including the construction of new schools, mentoring girls through reading and sports, and providing menstrual health support and youth leadership training. These efforts help keep students in school while building their confidence, leadership skills, and hope for a better future.
“Education is the foundation for sustainable progress,” said Derek Maxfield, entrepreneur and philanthropist. “Every child deserves the chance to learn, dream, and create a future for themselves. Supporting Mali Rising aligns perfectly with our belief that lasting change begins with opportunity.”
Through the Maxfield Family Foundation, Derek and Shelaine Maxfield have established a legacy of impact that surpasses standard financial giving. Their focus on education, empowerment, and community development continues to transform lives across the globe.
Derek and Shelaine Maxfield are philanthropists and social innovators committed to healing and empowerment through education and compassion. Together, they founded Saprea, a globally recognized nonprofit dedicated to liberating individuals from the lasting impacts of child sexual abuse. Shelaine, Saprea’s founder and board chair, leads its mission to provide free healing services and prevention education to survivors and families worldwide. Derek, co-founder of Younique and a member of Saprea’s board, helped provide the vision and resources that brought the organization to life. In 2021, they established the Maxfield Family Foundation, expanding their philanthropic reach to support education, humanitarian relief, and community development around the world.
For more news and information about the Maxfield Foundation, contact us at PR@maxfieldfamilyoffice.com.
For more information on Mali Rising, please visit https://www.malirisingfdn.org/.
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Original Press Release.
