Our Story
Established in 2020
Founded by those personally affected.
Built to help others find clarity and healing.
Enlighten DNA was born from a personal search for truth — and a deep desire to help others who find themselves on a similar path.
Chad and Emily Ripper, the founders of Enlighten DNA, were directly affected by the kind of unexpected family discovery that’s becoming increasingly common in the age of at-home DNA testing. What began as curiosity led to revelations that reshaped identity, raised difficult questions, and ultimately inspired a mission: to create a space where others could find clarity, connection, and peace — without barriers or judgment.
Through their own journey, they experienced firsthand how overwhelming and isolating DNA surprises can be. They also saw how many people were navigating these life-changing discoveries alone, with few truly supportive, accessible resources available — especially those that prioritized healing over profit.
Why Enlighten DNA Exists
To help people discover their biological truth, reconnect with their roots, and find healing — at no cost.
Enlighten DNA was founded to provide free, personalized guidance for adoptees, Not Parent Expected (NPE) individuals, and anyone uncovering unexpected truths in their family tree. It’s not just about decoding test results — it’s about understanding your story, reclaiming your identity, and moving forward with compassion and support.
Enlighten DNA supports individuals by:
Interpreting complex DNA test results and identifying key matches
Rebuilding biological family trees using public records and advanced genealogy methods
Offering thoughtful guidance through emotionally charged moments, including outreach to relatives and post-discovery processing
All of this is done with care, experience, and zero cost to those seeking help. Enlighten DNA is funded by donations so that access to the truth is never dependent on someone’s ability to pay.
Built for a Growing Need
Every day, more people are uncovering life-changing information in their DNA. These discoveries are far more common than most people think — and they often leave individuals without a roadmap for what comes next.
Enlighten DNA was created to be that roadmap — a safe, grounded place to turn when the truth shows up unexpectedly. A place where support is real, guidance is trusted, and healing is possible.
Chad and Emily continue to walk this path themselves, and they built Enlighten DNA to walk it alongside others — because no one should have to go through this journey alone.
Mission
Provide free, compassionate, and expert support to individuals navigating unexpected DNA discoveries — helping them uncover biological truths, connect with family, and heal through understanding.
Vision
A world where no one feels lost, broken, or alone in the face of DNA revelations — where every person has access to their truth, and the support they need to make peace with it.
Values
- Truth with compassion
- Clarity through personalized guidance
- Nonprofit by design