Ages 18–26

Discover Who You Are. Connect With Others. Build Your Future.

The Rise Above Young Adult Program helps participants build resilience, strengthen their mental wellness, develop leadership skills, and explore meaningful pathways for the future through mentorship, guided conversations, and community connection.

*Participants must live in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

Rise Above Young Adult Program

Safe Spaces. Trusted Mentors. Brighter Futures.

Life doesn’t come with a roadmap. Whether you’re in college, working, exploring career options, building a business, taking care of family, or figuring out what’s next, Rise Above is a space to invest in yourself while connecting with others navigating similar experiences.

Who Should Join?

Whether you’re working, studying, creating, job-seeking, caregiving, or exploring what’s next, Rise Above welcomes young adults from all backgrounds and life experiences.

No matter where you are on your journey, there’s a place for you here.


 

What You'll Gain

  • A safe space to talk, learn, and grow
  • Practical tools for wellness, work, and life
  • Connections with mentors and community leaders
  • Opportunities for reflection and self-discovery
  • Leadership and advocacy experiences
  • A supportive community of peers
Program Commitment

Rise Above is designed as a progressive experience, with each session building upon the last. Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions to gain the greatest benefit from the program and contribute to a supportive group environment.

Join The Discussions:

Identity & Self-Discovery

Gain a deeper understanding of who you are, what matters to you, and the strengths you bring to the world.

Topics may include:

  • Identity and values
  • Purpose and meaning
  • Self-awareness
  • Confidence and personal growth
Mental Wellness & Resilience

Learn practical tools to support your emotional well-being and navigate life’s challenges.

Topics may include:

  • Stress management
  • Healthy coping skills
  • Emotional wellness
  • Building resilience
  • Self-care practices
Relationships & Community

Strengthen your ability to build meaningful relationships and create healthy support systems.

Topics may include:

  • Communication skills
  • Healthy boundaries
  • Belonging and connection
  • Empathy and understanding
  • Community engagement
Leadership & Future Pathways

Explore opportunities to grow as a leader and create positive change in your community.

Topics may include:

  • Leadership development
  • Advocacy and civic engagement
  • Career exploration
  • Professional growth
  • Volunteer and mentorship opportunities

 

For Questions about this program, contact:

Programs Manager,

Madeline Mitchell,

mmitchell@touchstonefound.org

Community Partnerships Include:

Lancaster County Community Foundation, Next Generation Grant
City Limits Foundation Grant
Welcoming Connections, Skylar Smith, LPC
YWCA Lancaster, Center for Racial and Gender Equity, Justice Now
Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-Central PA
Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health, Community Wellness- Teen Mental Health First Aid, Youth Mental Health First Aid, Joining Forces for Children
Community Services Group- Teen Mental Health First Aid, Youth Mental Health First Aid

Liz Graham -Rise Above Curriculum Developer

Bench Mark Program

514 East Recording

You’re invited to a Rise Above feedback session!

January 29th

We’re gathering students, facilitators, and artists to share reflections and help shape what’s next. Your voice matters—join us!

Join us in supporting youth mental wellness this ExtraGive!

November 21st

Make your impact by donating at the link below on November 21st, and come celebrate with us at the Greatest Giving Gig at Tellus360 from 5–8 PM. Together, we can elevate mental health for Lancaster’s youth!