Like many small-town boys growing up in the Midwest, Rob Roozeboom’s desire was to be a farmer and an athlete. However, after being diagnosed with muscular dystrophy at age five, Rob watched helplessly as his illness destroyed his dreams. Feeling painfully different and forgotten, Rob questioned his very existence and wrestled with God about his future.

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But God wasn't finished with him yet. 

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In 2001, Rob founded RISE Ministries, Inc., and in 2005, he launched RiseFest, an annual Christian music festival in Northwest Iowa that features some of the nation's top Christian artists and speakers.

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Living with muscular dystrophy has given Rob a unique and relatable perspective on walking through adversity while holding onto faith. His authenticity connects with and encourages people from all walks of life. He’s a sought-after speaker, sharing his story and bringing Jesus’ message of hope to communities, businesses, and prominent events nationwide. He's shared the stage with Phil Wickham, For King & Country, TobyMac, Skillet, Lecrae, Anne Wilson, Jep Robertson, Megan Fate Marshman, Darryl Strawberry, and many others.

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In 2022, Rob and the RISE team created RISE with Rob and Friends to bring singer-songwriters together for storytelling and music. Inspired by Nashville “Writers’ Rounds,” artists perform their original songs and share how they were inspired. Through this “night of hope through storytelling and music” Rob has shared the gospel message with thousands of people in Iowa, South Dakota, and Minnesota.

 

Rob also serves as Chairman of the Christian Festival Association (CFA), hosts the podcast “Enjoying the Journey,” produces annual Christmas and Easter TV programs as well as “Stories of Strength,” a video series with real-life stories of overcoming adversity through Jesus.

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Recently, Rob achieved an 18-year goal by writing his first book, Broken Still Chosen. The book weaves Rob's inspiring story with biblical teaching, offering hope to those who feel broken, unloved, unseen, or forgotten. 

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Rob has also received numerous humanitarian awards and has been featured multiple times on the National Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon. He and his wife live in Northwest Iowa, with their three young adult children.