“Every number represents a voice heard. A life changed. A future redirected.”
Research And Driving Change
At RISE TOGETHER, we transform how young people experience mental health and substance use prevention — not through scare tactics, but through real stories, lived experience, and evidence‑informed, peer‑led connection.
Since 2013, our work has reached:
- 500,000+ youth and adults engaged
- 200+ schools, communities, and organizations served
- 25+ states impacted through programs and partnerships
We believe that healing happens when young people are seen, empowered, and connected — not lectured to.
Real Results That Matter
Research shows that youth who participate in RISE TOGETHER experiences report powerful, measurable shifts in attitudes and intentions:
- 80% of students are less likely to use drugs or alcohol after a RISE presentation
- 85% report they’re more likely to help a peer in need
- 76% say they would be healthier with less stress
- 60% believe more prevention education is key to stopping the drug epidemic
These outcomes demonstrate not just awareness — but behavioral readiness, a strong predictor of long‑term prevention success.
Backed by Peer‑Led Research
Our model isn’t just inspiring — it’s research‑driven.
A recent mixed‑methods evaluation of peer‑led, school‑based substance use prevention programs — including Ignite & Engage — highlights that structured peer leadership enhances student engagement and prevention outcomes when youth lead with authenticity and shared lived experience.
RISE TOGETHER is one of the only youth prevention organizations in the nation with a published, NIH-indexed, peer-reviewed scientific study validating its impact.
What Guides Our Work
Our impact is informed by evidence — not assumptions.
In collaboration with academic partners like the Penn State College of Medicine, we analyze data on substance use trends, mental health intersections, and prevention strategies that truly work for adolescents today.
We use these insights to refine our programming continually — ensuring it:
- Meets youth where they are
- Responds to real‑world risk and resilience factors
- Amplifies youth voice, leadership, and agency
The Ripple Effect
When young people rise — entire communities follow. The impact is cumulative:
- Stronger peer networks
- Healthier school climates
- Increased awareness and reduced stigma
- More adults equipped to support youth
Together, we’re building resilience in homes, schools, and communities nationwide.
Why This Matters
- When youth lead, communities heal.
- When research informs action, change lasts.
- When we rise together, hope spreads.
“RISE Together helped me believe I could make a difference in my school.” – High school peer leader
Adolescent Substance Use: A Mixed Methods Assessment
Adolescents who engage in early substance use face a significantly higher risk of developing substance misuse disorders later in life. This comprehensive study evaluates the effectiveness of RISE TOGETHER’s youth-led initiatives by analyzing six years of data (2014–2020) collected through a cross-sectional web-based survey. The study surveyed middle and high school students across 53 counties in Wisconsin, focusing on their substance use behaviors and the broader factors influencing these patterns. The findings provide crucial insights into effective prevention strategies, highlighting the role of youth-focused interventions in fostering resilience, peer connection, and positive mental health outcomes.
Conducted by:
Penn State College of Medicine
Kenneth W. Verbos II, MD, MPH, MSc
Alma Jusufagic, MPH
Anthony Alvarado, BS
Aleksandra E. Zgierska, MD, PhD
Substance Use and Mental Health Among Middle- and High-Schoolers
The challenges of adolescent substance use are compounded by mental health struggles such as depression, anxiety, and high-risk behaviors, all of which were amplified during the pandemic. This study examines how substance use and mental health concerns intersect, with a focus on identifying trends among middle and high school students in Wisconsin. The research underscores the critical need for interventions that not only address substance use but also provide comprehensive mental health support for youth, highlighting the importance of integrating prevention strategies within schools and communities.
Conducted by:
Penn State College of Medicine
Kenneth W. Verbos II, MD, MPH, MSc
Alma Jusufagic, MPH
Anthony Alvarado, BS
Aleksandra E. Zgierska, MD, PhD
Implications of Adult Stakeholders in a Peer-to-Peer Model
This dissertation, conducted within the Appleton Area School District, investigates the role of adult stakeholders in youth peer-to-peer mental wellness and coaching groups. By engaging 15 students through surveys, interviews, and observations, the research highlights the pivotal contributions of adult facilitators in fostering group cohesion, mentoring peer coaches, and teaching critical life skills. Despite challenges in uniting youth from diverse backgrounds, the study revealed that young people often held solutions to their challenges, working collaboratively with adult stakeholders to build impactful partnerships.
The findings emphasize the importance of emotional intelligence, tailored mentorship, and shared leadership in peer-to-peer models. By cultivating these partnerships, the Appleton Area School District demonstrated how schools and communities can empower youth to drive change and positively influence their peers’ mental health and behavior. This groundbreaking research offers a model for educational institutions and youth-focused organizations nationwide.
By: Jake Larsh, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
Further Study
Trends in Concurrent Marijuana, Alcohol, and Cigarette Use Among Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study
Arjola Agolli, Kenneth W. Verbos II, Alma Jusufagic, Anthony Alvarado, Aleksandra Zgierska
Presented at the 9th Annual Penn State Addiction Symposium, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, December 8, 2023. This study investigates patterns of substance use among adolescents, highlighting key typologies and trends to inform prevention strategies.
Research Based Approach
Cannabis Use Among Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study
Arjola Agolli, Kenneth W. Verbos II, Alma Jusufagic, Anthony Alvarado, Aleksandra Zgierska
Abstract accepted for presentation at the Appalachian Translational Research Network (ATRN) Conference, Morgantown, West Virginia, October 2023. This research explores cannabis use behaviors among adolescents, offering insights to guide intervention and public health efforts.
Over 3k youth testimonies
HUGE THANKS TO OUR PARTNERS, SPONSORS, AND SUPPORTERS
Our impact has been entirely fueled by these incredible partnerships —Learn more here
WHAT YOUTH & COMMUNITIES ARE SAYING
“RISE Together didn’t just talk at us — they listened. They made us feel seen and gave us hope.” — High school student
“Our staff and students walked away inspired and ready to take action.” — School counselor
Want to join forces in your community?
Contact us today at risetogether@weallrisetogether.org