Join Us in Breaking the Stigma

Rise Above is a youth mental wellness and mentorship program that empowers Lancaster County students to explore identity, build resilience, and advocate for themselves and others.

It’s a growing movement to strengthen youth mental wellness, reduce stigma, and ensure every young person has access to connection, mentorship, and hope.

After School Rise Above Program Interest
*High School Students, Sign up here to learn how to support an Rise Above afterschool session at your school.

Rise Above Youth Summit

After School Rise Above Interest
*High School Students, Sign up here to learn how to support an Rise Above afterschool session at your school.

Program Overview

Through trauma-informed workshops led by mental health professionals, artists, and community mentors, students engage in creative expression, open dialogue, and skill-building that supports emotional awareness, self-care, and leadership. Rise Above creates safe, affirming spaces where young people feel seen, heard, and supported—while gaining practical tools to navigate life’s challenges.

Guided by a curriculum centered on Discovering Yourself, Interacting with Others, and Looking to the Future, Rise Above connects students with trusted adults, peer mentors, and real pathways for continued advocacy, including after-school clubs, certifications, and leadership opportunities in their schools and communities.

Students in this summer program will gain:

  • $500 scholarship for each participant
  • Teen Mental Health First Aid certification
  • Guided identity & wellness workshops
  • Sound therapy, poetry, journaling, and creative storytelling
  • Racial equity, teen dating violence prevention and advocacy
  • Rise Above apparel & wellness journal
  • Ongoing support to launch school-based mental wellness initiatives

Student Opportunities

Students, do you want to be part of the Rise Above program for Summer 2025? Registration is now OPEN! We will review interviews through May and interviews will be scheduled once registration closes.

  • Gain knowledge and earn credentials in mental wellness
  • Connect with other students and leaders in the field
  • Develop leadership skills for mental health advocacy in schools
2025 Student Participant Interest Registration

Safe Space Facilitators

Want to share your expertise in mental health or art with local high school students, and inspire Lancaster’s next generation? As a Safe Space Facilitator, you’ll lead engaging discussions on various mental wellness topics, helping students explore their identity and place in the community.

Requirements for Safe Space Facilitators:

  • Current background checks and clearances are required
  • On-site staff support provided
  • Access to Trauma-Informed Care, Youth Mental Health First Aid, and Child Abuse Prevention training

 

Topics explored include:

  • Teen Mental Health First Aid
  • Self-Advocacy and Wellness
  • Understanding Pronouns and Identity
  • Safe Dating and Healthy Relationships

Mental Health Professionals

Mental Health Professionals: Are you passionate about guiding young people in understanding mental wellness? Facilitate discussions to help students answer key mental health questions and explore new tools for resilience.

Past Mental Health Topics have included: 

  • Teen Mental Health First Aid 
  • Understanding Self Advocacy 
  • Mental Health 101 
  • Resilience Tools for Wellness 
  • Success vs. Failure 
  • Understanding addiction, recovery, and prevention 
  • Safe Dating for Teens 
  • Identity and Community Building 
  • Understanding Pronouns 
  • Racial Healing  

Application Requirements

  • Short Bio
  • Professional Headshot
  • Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Certification
  • Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check
  • List of anticipated materials needed for workshop 
  • Handouts and Printouts
Applications Are Now Closed
Thank you to our supporting Mental Health Leadership for your contributions to our summer session!

Artists

Artists: Do you love helping teens express themselves through art? Lead creative workshops where students can engage in self-expression and emotional exploration through various artistic mediums.

Past Artistic Workshops have included: 

  • Self-Reflection  
  • Believe in Your Power 
  • Poetic Probability 
  • Affirming Poetry 
  • Poetic Free Writing 
  • Plants and Personal Growth 
  • Music Production 
  • Story Illustration 
  • Graffiti Art 
  • Mixed Media and Community Building 
  • Building Your Playlist- coping with emotions through music 
  • Creative Writing and Journaling 
  • Self-Love and Self-Expression  

Application Requirements

  • Short Bio
  • Professional Headshot
  • Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Certification
  • Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check
  • List of anticipated materials needed for workshop 
  • Handouts and Printouts
Applications Are Now Closed

Thank you to our supporting Community of Artists who applied to our summer session, we cannot wait to see your presentations!

2025 Summer Facilitators

Natalie Letra, CPSS, CPS, MA
Natalie Letra, CPSS, CPS, MA became a Certified Peer Specialist in 2022. In 2023, she joined the team at Recovery InSight, for which she now serves as Intake & Referral Coordinator and Certified Peer Specialist Supervisor, in addition to her role as a Certified Peer Specialist. Prior to joining Recovery InSight, Natalie earned a Bachelor's degree in Marketing and a Master’s degree in Integrated Marketing Communication from York College of Pennsylvania. Natalie also serves as a Peer Mentor at Community Services Group’s STAR (Specialized Transitional Age Resources) Program, where she helps individuals ages 16 to 24 achieve goals related to socialization and independent living skills, among others. Natalie is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Social Work from Millersville University.
Shaina Cruz
Shaina Cruz works full time as a Paraeducator at Rohrerstown Elementary School. She has worked with children with autism for 5 years. Shaina is very dedicated to her work and art. Art has helped her express and understand herself better. Shaina is a youth leader at her church Puerta De Refugio on W. King St. She enjoys inspiring people with art and working with the youth in fun creative ways!
Sobeida-Rosa
Sobeida Rosa is a lifelong local of Lancaster and former student of the School District of Lancaster. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in both Journalism and Spanish from Ithaca College. Her passion for social justice has led her to build a career in the nonprofit sector, helping to build up her community. In 2021, she was recognized by YWCA Lancaster as a Woman of Achievement for her work with the Lancaster Changemakers Collective.
Vania Hardy
Vania Hardy is a multidisciplinary artist and designer. She is passionate about visual storytelling work that resonates with children and youth, helping them explore identity, emotional health, and deeper purpose. Vania has led workshops and contributed to initiatives focused on holistic well-being, often weaving her background in art and design. Originally from Hawaii and now based in Pennsylvania, she brings a love for culture, nature, and storytelling into everything she creates. What drives her work is seeing young people light up when they realize the value already buried inside them.
Abby Saurbaugh
Education & Outreach Coordinator Abby earned her Bachelor’s in Art Education from Millersville University. She also earned her teacher certification and is certified to teach art to Pre-K - 12 grade and has enjoyed teaching and creating programs and curriculums at the Demuth Foundation since 2021. She created an art therapy club at her high school that sparked her love of teaching and helping people through art. She now runs the Teen Art Council at the Demuth Foundation and helps to provide an outlet through art to local students. She loves to work with kids and provide opportunities of growth and exploration in art. Abby also enjoys traveling, creating art, and reading.
Alisa Krause
Alisa brings a deep passion for mental wellness and a heart for helping others feel seen, heard, and valued just as they are. Originally from Rhode Island, Alisa has called Lancaster home for over ten years. Alisa is the Client Care Coordinator at local therapy office, Integrate Therapy and Wellness Collective and is also the Director of Hope Noted, a mental health and grief support organization where she designs their empathy greeting cards and digital content. Additionally, Alisa works as an Educator for Mental Health America of Lancaster County. She is an introvert who enjoys hiking, baking, painting, or spending time with her daughter Chloe and husband Ryan.
Beimnet Getahun
My name is Beimnet. I’m a proud Lancaster native with a Master’s in Social Work, and I’m deeply committed to empowering youth through education, mentorship, and community engagement. I believe in the transformative power of access and exposure—when we are given the tools and opportunities to see what’s possible, we begin to believe in our own potential. One of the guiding principles in my work is: "You can’t be what you can’t see." In education, I also advocate for the power of sharing our stories in ways that empower each of us. I love attending spoken word poetry events, spending time with my mini Goldendoodle, Maazi, thrifting, and traveling—especially to Atlanta, where my extended family lives, and to LA, where I have a strong-knit community of friends!
Dana Kinsey
Dana Kinsey, Lancaster City Poet Laureate, is a spoken word artist, actor, director, and teacher with PA Council on the Arts and DE Division of the Arts. Her writing is published in Fledgling Rag, SWWIM, SoFloPoJo, The Champagne Room, West Trestle Review, ONE ART, Wild Roof Journal, Drunk Monkeys, Passengers, Anti-Heroin Chic, and more. Her poem “Show Me, Earth, Your Day," was a contest finalist at Sweet Lit. Her poem “Paying My Respects” was chosen by Oprelle for their Poetry Masters Anthology, 2024. Dana's play, WaterRise, was produced at the Gene Frankel Theatre. Her book, Mixtape Venus, is published by I. Giraffe Press and was selected as a “Best Dressed” feature for The Wardrobe at Sundress Publications. Visit wordsbyDK.com.
Elizabeth Mills
Elizabeth grew up climbing trees and searching for wild orchids in NC. She’s the coowner of a plant health care company and a Pennsylvania Forest Steward. After she studied at Longwood Gardens for her Landscape Design certification in 2012, she began restoring 38 acres in Lancaster County and providing her clients with gardens designed for wildlife. Elizabeth provides opportunities for others to deepen their connection with nature as a Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide as well. She can usually be found studying, playing outside or loving on the birds, trees, and humans in her world.
Erika Snitzer
Erika received her master's in clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University, Chicago, and currently works as a counselor in residency (LAPC) with Samaritan Counseling Center in Lancaster. Erika works with individuals across the lifespan. She enjoys presenting in the Lancaster community and sharing her passion for mental health topics. In her work as a counselor, Erika takes a holistic approach that considers family and social histories, cultural connections, and individual experiences. She encourages clients to explore self-awareness, engage in personal growth, and develop resiliency to approach a life that aligns with personal values and provides meaning.
Ethan A. Poetic
Ethan A. Poetic, Native of Coatesville, Pa. Alumni of J.P. McCaskey High School, Harrisburg Area Community College, Millersville University. Poetic is an Author, Keynote Speaker, Mental Health Advocate, and Certified Restorative Justice & Circles. Poetic is a recipient of numerous awards & accolades. Including NAACP Award Lancaster Branch, Proclamation Declaration from Lancaster City Hall, Award of Excellence from The State of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. He's a self-published author of “The Inspirational Story of Ethan A. Poetic: Chronicles of Adversities, Education, Sports, Relationships, & Resiliency.” for serious media inquiries, speaking engagements, questions, or comments. Visit ethanspeak.com
Hannah Short
Hannah Short, Equity Training Coordinator for the Center for Racial and Gender Equity (CRGE): Hannah is a self-described Social Justice Warrior passionate about building community and storytelling. A graduate of Champlain College, Hannah earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication, with a specialization in Communication Studies and a minor in Social Justice. She has extensive experience being what Dr. Faith Yacubian (2019) coined, a “collective cognizer.” She holds a Master's degree in Education focusing on Diversity and Student Resilience from York College of Pennsylvania.
Isabel-Castillo
Isabel Castillo, is the Director of the Center for Racial and Gender Equity (CRGE) at YWCA Lancaster. Isabel has over a decade of community organizing experience. She is a native of Mexico and before moving to Lancaster, Isabel worked on various social justice campaigns in Virginia. She believes in restorative justice embedded in anti-oppression and brings that practice to her work every day. Isabel holds a Bachelor of Social Work and a Master of Conflict Transformation from Eastern Mennonite University. When she’s not building power with the community, Isabel is spending time with her family and playing soccer.
Kat DeSantis
Kat DeSantis is a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and community impact. She has created and facilitated countless workshops centered on confidence building, professional development, team connection, and values-driven leadership — supporting women, young people, and teams in intentional, inclusive spaces. As the Public Policy Manager at the Lancaster Chamber, Kat leads civic engagement efforts and forges partnerships that strengthen Lancaster’s business and nonprofit communities. Her commitment to service extends beyond her day job — she actively volunteers with Girls on the Run, YWCA Lancaster, the Clay Street Shelter, and is deeply involved in her synagogue community.
Lawrence Smith
Lawrence Smith is beginning his journey working in mental health as a Certified Peer Specialist at Recovery InSight. He has a bachelor's degree in psychology and is in the process of looking into doctoral programs. Lawrence is new to the field and looks forward to opportunities to become more involved in the community and with mental health services.
Malia Burris, MSW
Malia Burris, MSW, is a sound healing practitioner specializing in expressive arts therapy. She creates safe, healing-centered spaces that help people of all ages feel grounded, seen, and empowered, with a special passion for working with teenagers and young adults. Malia has experience leading group sound meditations and mindfulness practices in both therapeutic and community settings. Her favorite work is supporting teens as they connect with their inner calm and develop tools for emotional resilience. Originally from Hawaii, she enjoys painting and spending time with her husky.
Skylar Wyatt Smith, LPC, ATR
Skylar has over 35 years of experience supporting clients across life stages, specializing in ADHD, anxiety, ASD, trauma, and LGBTQ+ issues. A seasoned therapist and published author, Skylar also co-facilitates the Lancaster-based Trans/Nonbinary group Acrasid and is expanding their private practice, Welcoming Connections, LLC, to offer therapy and expressive arts services.
IMG_1596
Introducing Sir Dominique Jordan the Prolific One, a poetic vanguard from Lancaster, Pennsylvania. With his compelling words, he empowers others to embrace their vulnerability as a superpower. As an Artivist, he travels the country, sharing the transformative power of Hip Hop culture and creative expression, especially through spoken word poetry. He is a Baldwin fellow alum and was named the 2023 Activist of the Year and recognized by the NAACP for his contributions to Arts and Entertainment in Central PA, Sir Dominique Jordan is a force for change. He is an educator and workshop facilitator that focuses on fostering safe spaces for open minded and creative innovators to thrive, especially our future generations.
theo
Theo Brown (they/he) is a Therapist and Education Coordinator at the YWCA Lancaster Sexual Assault Prevention Counseling Center. They have a master's in social work and a master's in Human Sexuality from Widener University, graduating in 2023. In 2011, they graduated from Susquehanna University with a BA in Sociology and Women's Studies. They also serve on the board for Lancaster Pride as the volunteer coordinator. Theo is passionate about intersectionality and how oppression impacts marginalized communities' mental health, and he has the lived experience as a neurodivergent transmasculine nonbinary queer individual. Their focus is on decolonizing therapy and uplifting marginalized communities for victim survivors of sexual violence, and they utilize narrative therapy, attachment theory, and somatic techniques. They like to take walks in the woods, spend time with their family and pets, and explore what Lancaster has to offer.

You Voted and the Winning T-Shirt Design Is...

2025 T-Shirt Rise Above Front & Back (3)

T-Shirts were printed in collaboration with the Benchmark Program Apparel Team.

Listen To Our Summer Session Student Playlist!

Rise Above: Songs for the Journey
This playlist was curated by students as a reflection of their mental health journeys. Each track holds personal meaning—whether as a mirror of their emotions, an escape from heavy thoughts, or a memory tied to something significant. Music, as a universal language, helps express what words often can’t.

Let these songs inspire your own path, offering comfort, connection, and strength. Tune in to the voices of youth from our Rise Above Youth Summit sessions—and join the movement toward healing and hope.

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
The Hood Hippie Love Yourself
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

Soliman Photography & Videography

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!

RSVP to Our Session
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!

BOOKMARK OUR LINK