ABOUT US

OUR STORY

RISE TOGETHER began over a decade ago, September of 2013, fueled by frustration with the addiction and mental health epidemic and a deep desire to create change. Determined to break the silence and stigma, a small group of passionate individuals stepped forward, sharing their personal stories of hope and resilience. What started as an act of courage quickly grew into a national movement.

Through storytelling and advocacy, RISE TOGETHER has empowered over 500,000 students to stand up, speak out, and take action. Our mission is simple: inspire young people to rise above challenges, build resilience, and create lasting change in their lives and communities.

At the heart of RISE TOGETHER are innovative programs that spark conversations, foster leadership, and provide life-saving resources:

RISEseminars: Engaging school-speaking programs that break stigma and educate students.
RISEhangouts: Safe spaces for youth to connect and drive positive leadership.
RISEconnection: Training for educators to build supportive environments for youth.
RISEcoaching: Peer-to-peer wellness training that strengthens mental health support.

We also address the opioid epidemic through programs like OAK (Overdose Aid Kit), equipping schools with Narcan training and overdose prevention tools to save lives.

From grassroots campaigns to national recognition, RISE TOGETHER continues to grow as a vibrant community of changemakers. We believe every voice matters and that together, we can create a brighter future.

Join us in this movement of hope and action.

Our Team

A speaker holding a microphone addresses a large audience in a conference setting, with attendees seated in the background.

Anthony Alvarado

Board Chair, Founder

Anthony is a dedicated leader with over 12 years of experience breaking stigmas around mental health and addiction. Co-Creator of four transformative youth programs, they’ve inspired thousands through speaking and advocacy. Currently, Anthony collaborates with Penn State College of Medicine on addiction prevention research, driving meaningful change nationwide.

A young woman speaks at a microphone in front of a banner that reads 'STAND UP. SPEAK OUT.' The setting is a performance space with blue lighting.

Nadine Machkovech

Executive Director

Nadine is a recently published author, globally recognized TEDx speaker and award-winning advocate who helps people reclaim their stories and self-worth. With over a decade of experience and 2,000+ hours of teaching, she has inspired thousands through peer-led prevention, mental health advocacy, and powerful storytelling—creating spaces where young people feel seen and heard.

Close-up of a woman with long brown hair, wearing a black top and a light gray cardigan, looking thoughtfully towards the side against a dark background.

Meghyn Scheffler

Program Director

Meghyn brings over a decade of experience supporting youth in corrections, schools, and hospitals. She currently serves as a teacher with Appleton Area School District and sits on the board for Chuter’s Youth Boxing. With degrees in psychology and education and a SAC-IT certification, she empowers young people to create positive change, fostering purpose, belonging, and self-discovery.

A smiling woman with long gray hair, wearing a black lace top and posing beside a green hedged wall, sitting on stairs.

Lindsay Loewe

Board Member

Lindsay is a wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend. Her passions include helping serve the communities in which we live…one step at a time. She is the Founder of Collaborative Wellness and a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in Substance Use Disorders. She has a background in Art Therapy and works with people across the lifespan, goes to those in need, and volunteers on various boards and committees. Her two therapy dogs, Griffin & Gus, help create safe spaces and are the lights of our lives!