RISE Program

Resilience, Independence, and Self-Confidence Through Experiences (RISE) Program

About The RISE Program

The RISE (Resilience, Independence, and Self-Confidence Through Experiences) Program, under SOAR’s CORE services umbrella, provides trauma-informed, resilience-building support for youth experiencing school disengagement, justice involvement, family instability, emotional and behavioral challenges. Through experiential therapy, coaching, and skill-building, youth are supported in developing positive coping strategies, emotional regulation, and relationship skills.


Areas of Focus:

  • Self-Regulation
  • Emotional Awareness
  • Healthy Relationships & Social Skills
  • Life Skills & Problem-Solving
  • Positive Identity & Purpose

RISE Activities

SKILLS TRAINING

Adolescents will participate in RISE Skill Training every week. In these sessions, adolescents participate in activities such as group team building, emotional regulation, social skills, healthy relationship building, conversation & communication skills, and identifying thoughts and feelings.

INDIVIDUAL THERAPY SESSIONS

Adolescents will participate in two individual therapy sessions per month with a program clinician in order to process what they are are experiencing in the group setting and progress toward their therapeutic goals.

INDIVIDUAL COACHING SESSIONS

Adolescents work regularly, 1-on-1, with an Engagement Coach to get support, practice skills, and stay focused on their goals. These may be in-person sessions in their school, home, or community or maybe check-ins by phone or virtual meeting platform.


* minimum of two per month

Program Activities:


  • Individual Experiential Therapy: 4 sessions/month blending talk therapy with creative and adventure-based approaches.
  • Adolescent Coaching: Weekly skill-building and mentorship through 1:1 or small group sessions in school, home, or community settings.
  • Group Resilience Activities: Targeted experiential group sessions that build connection, emotional expression, and communication.
  • Family Support: Case management, parent/caregiver support, and coordination with external services to strengthen the whole family.


What to Expect:


  • Clear goals and consistent attendance expectations. Sessions held in a variety of environments including SOAR sites,homes, schools, and community spaces.
  • Outdoor and experiential settings to support active learning and engagement.
  • Confidentiality: Client safety is our top priority. Info may be shared only in cases of legal concern or authorized release.


How RISE Impacts Youth & Families:

SOAR’s RISE program is making a measurable difference in the lives of youth and families navigating complex challenges. Here’s what our data tells us:

  • 83% of youth who completed the RISE program showed growth in emotional regulation, social skills, and confidence.
  • 76% of youth reported feeling more connected to a caring adult after working with a SOAR clinician or coach.
  • 91% of caregivers reported improvements in their child’s ability to manage stress and daily challenges.
  • 67% of youth engaged in multiple service types (therapy, coaching, group activities), showing the benefit of integrated, wraparound care.


Community Impact:

SOAR’s mobile and flexible model has reduced barriers for families who previously struggled to access traditional mental health services. Youth who were previously disengaged from school,

experiencing social isolation, or facing justice involvement have shown improvements in school

participation, peer relationships, and communication with caregivers.


Click here to download our RISE Program brochure!