Across New York State, funds from settlements with companies involved in manufacturing, distributing, and selling opioids are being channeled into life-saving programs. RISE is at the forefront of this effort, using these critical resources to bring compassionate care directly to individuals affected by substance use.
Dr. Chenezo Cunningham, a leading voice in community health, recently visited with the RISE Above and RISE Outreach teams to learn more about their innovative approaches. “It’s saving lives, is the bottom line,” Cunningham said. “So many lives have been lost from overdose related to opioids. And these dollars are specifically about making sure that we can prevent that from happening. And that is what’s happening.”
RISE operates with a harm reduction philosophy, focusing on meeting people where they are—both physically and in their recovery journeys. Whether at a rural encampment or along a main s treet corridor, RISE staff bring vital services directly to individuals who often face multiple barriers to traditional care.
“Our role is meeting individuals where they’re at in the community and trying to keep them alive, essentially, and meeting them wherever they’re at with their recovery goals,” said Victoria Furfaro, Director of Outreach and Advocacy.
This work includes the distribution of harm reduction supplies like Naloxone (Narcan), fentanyl test strips, and other essential resources. But it doesn’t stop there. The RISE Outreach team also offers food, water, socks, blankets, and warm clothing—items that provide comfort, dignity, and a path toward building trust.
“For some individuals, that might mean meeting up with them at a campsite and providing them with supplies. Then over time, you continue to visit them, you build that rapport,” Victoria Furfaro explained.
It’s this steady, nonjudgmental presence that often opens the door to deeper engagement—whether that means connecting someone to medical treatment, recovery supports, or housing.
RISE Above is a Residential Rehabilitation Program that provides a structured, supportive living environment for individuals in recovery from substance use disorders. Residents receive 24-hour supervision, case management, and individualized rehabilitative services designed to support long-term recovery.
Services at RISE Above are tailored to each resident’s needs and may include overdose prevention education, individual and group counseling, peer support, psychiatric and medical assessments, medication management, and psycho-social interventions. The program also helps individuals reconnect with community resources and develop healthy, structured routines that promote wellness.
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