The Rise Above School Program brings youth mental wellness, mentorship, and leadership development directly into Lancaster County high schools, creating safe spaces where students can connect, learn, and grow together.
What if every student had access to a trusted adult who listened, encouraged them, and helped them navigate life’s challenges?
What if mental wellness conversations were as common as conversations about academics, athletics, and future careers?
Through support from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency’s Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) Grant Program, Touchstone Foundation is expanding Rise Above into Lancaster County schools and community settings, bringing mental wellness education, mentorship, and leadership development to more youth than ever before.
Over the next several years, Rise Above will serve more than 920 middle school students, high school students, and young adults, while training 200 Safe Space Facilitators to become youth mentors through Youth Mental Health First Aid, Trauma-Informed Care, and Child Abuse Prevention training.
Through age-appropriate workshops, workbooks, mentorship opportunities, and creative experiences, students will build resilience, strengthen relationships, develop leadership skills, and learn that they do not have to navigate life’s challenges alone.
Together, we are creating a stronger network of support for Lancaster County youth—one conversation, one mentor, and one student at a time.
1. Express Interest
School administrators, counselors, teachers, student support teams, and student leaders can contact Touchstone Foundation to learn more about bringing Rise Above to their school.
2. Discovery Meeting
Our team will meet with your school to understand student needs, discuss goals, identify scheduling options, and determine the best program model for your community.
3. Program Planning
Together, we customize a Rise Above experience that aligns with your students and school culture. Programs may be offered during the school day, after school, as a club, or through special events and workshops.
4. Student Engagement
Students participate in interactive sessions focused on:
Sessions incorporate creative expression, guided discussions, mentorship, and practical wellness tools.
5. Mentorship & Support
Students connect with trained Safe Space Facilitators, including mental health professionals, artists, educators, and community leaders who help foster meaningful conversations and positive relationships.
6. Growth & Impact
Students gain confidence, resilience, leadership skills, and stronger connections to peers, trusted adults, and community resources. Schools receive ongoing support as Rise Above continues to grow.
Whether you’re looking to launch a student club, bring workshops into the classroom, support student wellness initiatives, or expand mentorship opportunities, we’d love to partner with you.
Contact Touchstone Foundation today to schedule a Rise Above information meeting and explore how we can support your students.
Email:
Programs Manager,
Madeline Mitchell
mmitchell@touchstonefound.org
Liz Graham -Rise Above Curriculum Developer
Bench Mark Program
514 East Recording
We’re gathering students, facilitators, and artists to share reflections and help shape what’s next. Your voice matters—join us!
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!
