Dear RISE TOGETHER Nation,

As we bid farewell to 2023, we want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared over the past year. Your support has been instrumental in our success, and together, we’ve accomplished remarkable milestones that have fueled our mission of creating a world where youth feel heard, loved, and inspired to live in hope.

National Impact with SAFE Project Partnership:

Our collaboration with SAFE Project has propelled us to impact over 5,500 students across the nation through peer-delivered programming. Together, we’re dismantling stigma and fostering an environment of education, engagement, and empowerment.

Spotlight on National Stages with Penn State College of Medicine:

Partnering with the research team at Penn State Medicine has allowed us to present on prestigious national stages such as ASAM and the Penn State Addiction Symposium. Looking forward to 2024, we’re excited about the three impactful papers we’ll be publishing, making waves in the addiction, medicine, and prevention space.

A Decade of Dedication: Celebrating 10 Years of RISE TOGETHER:

This year, we celebrated a decade of impact since our inception in 2013. In September, we were honored with our second proclamation from Appleton’s mayor, designating September 12th not only as RISE TOGETHER Day but also as National Recovery Month. This recognition aligns with our commitment to fostering awareness and support for those on the path to recovery.

We Are Not Alone 10-City Tour: Empowering Youth Advocates and Changemakers:

Our 10th-anniversary celebration included the “We Are Not Alone” 10-city tour, where we initiated crucial conversations around addiction and mental health. This tour empowered youth advocates and changemakers to break the silence and eliminate stigma, reinforcing our message that there is #NoShame in asking for help.

Building Bridges of Empathy: Prioritizing Mental Health in Schools:

Since our inception in 2013, RISE TOGETHER has impacted over 275,000 middle and high school students, unveiling their struggles with trauma, stress, substance use, self-harm, and mental health challenges. Through this journey, we’ve discovered effective ways to prioritize empathy over stigma, uncovering strategies to combat stigma related to bullying, self-harm, suicide, drugs, and alcohol.

Empowering Youth in Recovery and Youth Advocates in Action:

Our commitment to empowering youth extends to those in recovery and those advocating for change. Through initiatives like “Empowering Youth in Recovery” and “Youth Advocates in Action,” we’re actively fostering an environment where the voices of our youth lead positive change.

Closing with Program Highlights:

As we look to 2024, we’re fueled by the momentum of our achievements and partnerships, driven by impactful programs at RISE TOGETHER. Founded with a goal to save lives, our nonprofit in Appleton, Wisconsin offers programs like the RISE Speaking Program for powerful storytelling, the RISE Peer-Coaching Program for comprehensive wellness coaching, the RISE Youth Leadership Program promoting positive mental health, and the RISE Adult Training Program for professionals facilitating vital conversations.

With your continued support, we aim to expand the reach of these programs, impacting even more lives in the coming year. Thank you for being an integral part of the RISE TOGETHER nation. Your dedication propels us forward, and we’re excited to keep rising together.

Wishing you a joyous holiday season and a Happy New Year!

Warm regards,

Nadine Machkovech, Executive Director