What is Eckerd's RISE Program?

The Resilience in Strength and Empowerment (RISE) program, operated through Eckerd Connects’ Prevention Services, helps middle and high school students build resilience, develop life skills, and make healthy choices for their future. Using an evidence-based curriculum, RISE empowers youth to strengthen communication, decision-making, goal setting, and emotional regulation—skills that prepare them for long-term success.

RISE also provides education on substance misuse, covering topics such as tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, and prescription misuse—equipping students with the knowledge and skills to make healthy, informed choices.

Areas Served

RISE is currently offered in Osceola County, Florida, at Kissimmee Middle School and New Beginnings Education Center.

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Our Services

Small group and one-on-one sessions
Goal setting and personalized mentoring
Ongoing support within school partner sites
Evidence-based curriculum: Too Good for Drugs by the Mendez Foundation

What Makes It Unique?

What sets RISE apart is its comprehensive support inside the school setting, where students already feel connected and engaged. By combining skill-building, mentoring, and substance misuse education, the program addresses both academic and personal development. The results speak for themselves:

  • Supported 147 students in the 2024–2025 school year
  • 83% program completion rate
  • 100% of completers improved knowledge of life skills and substance misuse prevention
  • 100% of mentored students demonstrated stronger resiliency

Eligibility

Students must:

  • Be enrolled at a school partner site
  • Complete enrollment forms, including parent/guardian permission