“Mid-April, I had the honor of speaking at the WI Peer Recovery Conference—just one day before relocating to Florida. Couldn’t have asked for a better send-off.

The session I led, “Igniting Communities and Empowering Youth,” was one of the only conversations focused on youth engagement—and the response was powerful. We talked about what happens when young people are not just included, but centered. When their stories lead the way.

I shared the journey of RISE TOGETHER—our peer-driven, trauma-informed model that’s been in motion since 2013.

300,000+ students reached.

32% drop in reported substance use.

80% increase in mental health awareness.

It’s the stories that stay with you. The kind that break stigma, build connection, and shift culture.

What made it even more meaningful was reconnecting with friends, colleagues, and other pros who’ve been doing this work across Wisconsin for years. I left inspired and grounded.

While I’ve moved to Florida, RISE isn’t going anywhere. Nadine and I are now expanding our efforts across the country even more—and our team will continue showing up and making an impact in Wisconsin. That work doesn’t stop.

Thank you, WI, for the energy, the support, and the solid send-off.

Let’s keep rising—together.”

– Anthony Alvarado

In addition to this exciting annual conference and our families transition to Florida, a friend and colleague volunteered to step in and co-lead a powerful conversation on “Igniting Communities, Inspring Youth” at the statewide Annual NAMI Conference on Friday, April 25th.

More exciting updates coming soon.