Personal Stories

Personal stories of the triumphs and trials of individuals on a journey to attain their highest level of independence, self-sufficiency, and satisfaction with life.

 

Mental Wellness Month: Celebrating Resilience, Recovery, and Community

Mental Wellness Month is a time to recognize the strength it takes to heal, the importance of support, and the powerful role community plays in recovery. At RISE Housing and Support Services, this month reminds us why our mission matters—and how truly life-changing it can be.   In this video, Robert, a former RISE resident,… Read More

Robert’s Journey of Resilience

At Caffè Lena’s TrueSongs 2025: Stories of Courage, Resilience & Community, Robert Winkler shared his powerful story of struggle, resilience, and hope—a journey that reminds us how quickly life can change, and how critical support and community are in finding your footing again. TrueSongs shines a light on the work of local nonprofits that help create a healthier,… Read More

Finding Home: Katie’s Story with RISE Affordable Housing

When Katie and her family began searching for a safe, welcoming place to call home, the journey felt overwhelming. Like many families, they needed more than just an apartment—they were looking for stability, comfort, and a community where they could truly belong. They found that at RISE Affordable Housing. “When we started our family, we… Read More

Celebrating John: A Week of Milestones at Hedgerow House

At RISE Housing and Support Services, we have the privilege of witnessing life-changing moments. The quiet victories, the big breakthroughs, and the powerful transformations that happen when someone is supported in their recovery journey. This week, we are honored to celebrate one of those moments with John, a recent graduate of Hedgerow House. In the… Read More

Life After Hardship: Loren Reflects on a Year Beyond SunRISE Retreat

At RISE, we are proud to celebrate the journeys of individuals whose lives have been transformed through SunRISE Retreat Intensive Crisis Residence. Loren’s story is a powerful example of the hope, support, and stability this program provides, and we are honored to share his experience with our community.   “After 8 months of enduring hardship,… Read More

Celebrating Two Years of Sunrise Retreat: Mick’s Story

This month, we celebrate the second anniversary of SunRISE Retreat Intensive Crisis Residence, a program that has offered hope, stability, and a fresh start to so many in our community. To mark this milestone, we’re honored to share the journey of one of our former participants, Mick, whose story reflects the strength, determination, and healing… Read More

A Life Rebuilt: Jason’s Path Through Hedgerow House and Beyond

I’m Jason. I am a former Hedgerow House resident, and I currently work for RISE as the chef at RISE Above Residential Rehabilitation Program. I have been sober for 18 months, and I’m not the same person I was 18 months ago, when alcohol and the disease of alcoholism were taking over my life. I… Read More

Spotlight on Tim and John

Each month, RISE recognizes an individual in one of our programs who has made exceptional progress toward meeting their goals. At Dominic Hollow Treatment Apartments, we’ve seen firsthand how friendship can be a powerful part of the healing process—and this month, we’re celebrating two people: Tim and John. Through life’s ups and downs, Tim and… Read More

Independent, Not Alone: Ryan’s Story for Mental Health Awareness Month

As we honor Mental Health Awareness Month, we are proud to share the story of one of our residents, Ryan — a shining example of what’s possible when people are given both independence and support in their recovery journey. Ryan has lived at the Dominic Hollow Treatment Apartments since 2023. These 12 single-occupancy apartment, are… Read More

Alcohol Awareness Month: Celebrating Kendra’s Journey to Recovery

April is Alcohol Awareness Month—a time to reflect, educate, and inspire hope. At RISE Housing and Support Services, we are proud to highlight the courageous journeys of individuals who have committed to sobriety and transformed their lives. Today, we’re honored to share Kendra’s story—one of resilience, growth, and the power of support. Kendra’s path to… Read More