Reaching Independence with Security and Encouragement
What is RISE
Created Ministries’ RISE program exists to connect young adults 18-25 years who are aging out of foster care or at risk of home and food insecurities after high school graduation with the people and resources they need to navigate independence with security and encouragement. RISE is a program designed to meet needs on an INDIVIDUAL basis, providing the best possible outcome for success in adulthood. RISE-ing youth will be equipped with a furnished apartment, clothing, food, a financial coach, a Lifter, and life skills training.
Why RISE
We believe everyone needs the stability of a secure home and the encouragement of at least one meaningful adult committed to helping them navigate independence. Often this is not the reality for those aging out of foster care or youth suffering from homelessness upon graduating from high school. Also, these youth lack the many benefits that come from having an invested, meaningful adult in their lives. They are expected to prepare for immediate independence upon leaving care and fully handle adult responsibilities at a much earlier age than their peers.
More than 23,000 youth age out of foster care in the U.S. each year
Over 20% become instantly homeless at age 18
Only 50% will have gainful employment by age 24
How to RISE
Each RISE-ing young adult will be paired with a Lifter, a meaningful adult committed to helping them navigate adulthood and independence. A Lifter has the unique opportunity to invest in a RISE-ing youth, while lifting them as they progress through the program.
RISE participants will be placed in a furnished apartment while working through the 18-24 month individualized program. During this time they will work with a financial coach to gradually assume financial responsibilities, secure employment, and practice independence with the support of a community of invested adults.
Step 1
Attain financial stability and establish healthy living habits
With home insecurities and food insecurities removed, the RISE-ing youth is able to focus on learning to make wise financial choices, keep healthly living habits, and earn a living.
Step 2
Maintain stability while practicing independence
The RISE-ing youth will have opportunities to practice living independently with the security of invested, meaningful adults helping them to navigate finances, care for a home, earn a living, and take care of themselves physically and mentally. Practicing independence with support will give them the most confidence to live fully independent lives.
Step 3
Live fully independent
Stepping out into full independence can be frightening. That is why the RISE-ing young adults will keep the furnished apartment and continue with the life they have built once graduating from the RISE program. We believe maintaining a relationship with the RISE graduate is crucial to their continued success. The relationships built are life-long!