What We Do

Why We Exist

RISE TOGETHER builds connection, reduces stigma, and lifts youth voices through peer-led storytelling — so young people feel supported long before crisis.

Our Mission

We help young people feel seen, supported, and connected — so they ask for help, support one another, and grow.

Our Vision

We envision a world where young people feel they belong, their voices matter, and asking for help is the norm. Through youth-led storytelling and connection-based programs, we’re building healthier schools and communities.

Our Core Values

Education – Knowledge breaks cycles.
Engagement – We lead with real, authentic voices.
Empowerment – Youth deserve the tools to create change.
Community – Healing happens when we come together.
Equity – Every person deserves a psychologically safe space to grow.

Our Programs

Peer-Led Programming

Our youth programs move beyond inspiration to measurable change by:

Strengthening protective factors through guided connection and resilience-building
Reducing stigma with real, lived narratives that normalize help-seeking
Increasing youth voice and leadership through peer-led facilitation and storytelling

Bring RISE to your school or youth-serving organization

Beyond the Stage: Turning Inspiration Into Action

Our core presentations spark connection and hope — but the real transformation happens when young people take the next step.

Each initiative translates connection into long-term well-being:

Peer Coaching Programs: Strengthens emotional intelligence and long-term protective resources

RISE 21 Day Health Challenge: Builds healthy habits, increases self-efficacy, and help-seeking

RISE Hangout & Projects: Deepens belonging, peer support, and leadership activation

Adult Training & Community Partnerships

We prepare adults and community partners to reinforce protective environments by:

Teaching adults how to support youth connection, voice, and resilience
Breaking stigma in school and community systems
Expanding safe spaces where help-seeking is encouraged and normalized

-> Request Adult Training or Community Presentation

Research + Advocacy

Our prevention model is research-informed, measurable, and evidence-driven — ensuring outcomes like:

Increased help-seeking intentions
Reduced stigma around mental health and substance use
Higher reported sense of belonging and connection

Data and results are listed on our impact page.

Ready to Get Involved?

Explore all the ways you can take action [Visit our Take Action Page]

Together, We Rise

We believe in the power of shared stories, bold conversations, and young voices leading change. Let’s build a healthier, more connected future—together.

Workshops

RISE storytelling workshop:

A research-backed, peer-led workshop that builds youth voice through ethical storytelling. Participants strengthen confidence, reduce stigma, and build connection by learning how to share lived experiences safely and responsibly. This workshop fosters a sense of belonging and encourages help-seeking, while creating psychologically safe spaces for honest dialogue.

RISE Wellness workshop:

This workshop strengthens protective factors by helping participants build self-awareness, healthy habits, and resilience.
It includes the RISE 21-Day Health Challenge, where youth give up an unhealthy craving for 21 days while learning about mental health, addiction, and behavior change through a digital or printable workbook.

Parent Presentation:

A practical, research-informed presentation that equips parents, family advocates, and caregivers to support youth mental health and prevention. Families learn how to recognize warning signs, reduce stigma, foster open communication, and create supportive environments that encourage connection and help-seeking.

All RISE workshops are designed to strengthen protective factors, reduce stigma, and increase connection, belonging, and help-seeking.

Our Speakers

Anthony Alvarado

Founder

Anthony Alvarado is a speaker, published researcher, and visual storyteller focused on human performance, resilience, and culture under pressure. His work blends research-backed insight with lived experience to help people reduce burnout, build connection, and lead with clarity.

Nadine Machkovech

Executive Director

Nadine Machkovech is a TEDx speaker, author, and nonprofit leader focused on youth voice, connection, and prevention. Since finding recovery in 2013, her work has centered on helping young people feel seen, supported, and empowered to take action in their lives and communities.

Alex Schotten

Spoken Word Artist

Alex is a spoken word artist, wellness advocate, and founder of the Lifted Poets Society, fostering creativity and connection in recovery. Since overcoming addiction in 2016, Alex has created safe spaces for art, guidance, and holistic healing, inspiring others to embrace purpose and transformation.

A woman with long brown hair smiles slightly, wearing a black top and a light gray cardigan, standing against a dark textured background.

Meghan Scheffler

Educator & Facilitator

Meghyn has been part of the RISE family for five years—volunteering, supporting our work behind the scenes, and always showing up for youth in powerful ways. Today she’s our Program Director guiding our youth programming.

With more than a decade of experience working with young people in schools, hospitals, and correctional settings—not to mention her background in psychology, education, and SAC-IT certification—Meghyn brings so much heart, wisdom, and lived purpose to the table.

Brooklyn Goodlet

Storyteller

Brooklyn, a University of Stevens Point student and 2023 Seymour High School graduate, has been a dedicated RISE advocate since 2017. Honoring her father’s legacy, she inspires resilience and meaningful change by supporting those facing substance and alcohol use challenges.

TESTIMONIALS

The night of the presentation, I had planned to commit suicide. After the presentation, I no longer wanted or felt the need to. Listening to other people’s stories and their recovery made a huge impact on me. Since other people can make it through, I know I can too.

-High School Student

I thought that all of your stories were so inspirational. I like how you weren’t just saying “drugs are bad, don’t do them.” You told your story and how you were able to change your lives.