The origin of rise up initiative

The story of Rise Up Initiative is one of passion, resilience, and a deep commitment to supporting young lives. It began with a group of individuals who met during an American Foundation for Suicide Prevention training on support group facilitation for children and teens. Recognizing the lack of resources available for kids 18 and under who had experienced a loss to suicide, they felt called to take action.

What started as Camp Rise Up grew from a vision of providing a safe, nurturing space where children and teens could connect, find community, and begin to heal. The goal  was about creating opportunities for young people to rise above their grief, discover their inner strength, and know they are not alone.

Additional volunteers with lived experience of suicide loss joined to bring the camp to life. Together, the founding committee raised funds, secured locations, and built a network of dedicated supporters who believed in the mission. From those early days, the movement has been fueled entirely by the generosity and compassion of the community.

Now established as Rise Up Initiative, the nonprofit continues to carry forward the spirit of its beginnings while expanding its reach and impact. Rise Up Initiative fosters a positive, inclusive environment where young people feel supported and encouraged. The mission is to remain a beacon of hope—helping youth rise to their fullest potential and creating a ripple effect of healing and resilience.

We rise. We remember. We celebrate.

All committee members share personal, lived experience with suicide loss and grief:

• Krista Ball
• Areanna Carone
• Courtney Cox
• Nadine Engel
• Jax Lambert
• Jack Shaw
• Ryan Strength
• Sarah Waddell
• Celeste Wilhelm
• Jamie Zelazny