The Art of Housing: A Blog

Saratoga North Country Continuum of Care

As a proud member of the Saratoga North-Country Continuum of Care (SNC CoC), RISE works in partnership with our community partners to create lasting solutions to end homelessness in our communities. The SNC CoC is a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) designated collaborative planning body serving Saratoga, Warren, Washington, and Hamilton Counties,… Read More

Congratulations Sybil: SCCCMH Citizen of the Year

We are honored to share that Sybil Newell, Executive Director, will be honored as the Saratoga County Citizens Committee for Mental Health (SCCCMH) Citizen of the Year at the annual Mental Health Matters Benefit on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at the Saratoga-Wilton Elks Lodge.   Sybil Newell is the Chief Executive Officer of RISE Housing and… Read More

Celebrating Women at RISE

April is Women’s History Month. Join us in celebrating the 2026 theme, Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future. At RISE, we are committed to creating meaningful opportunities for women to thrive—both socially and economically. By fostering pathways to growth, independence, and connection, we help build empowerment and self-esteem, essential foundations for strong mental… Read More

Homelessness: Myths Hurt – Facts Help

Saratoga-North Country Continuum of Care has launched a campaign to replace misinformation about homelessness with truth, compassion, and data-driven solutions.   Myth One – Homelessness is a Choice We often hear “Homelessness is a choice” but the reality is today’s wages do not meet the basic needs of many in our area. Creating housing vulnerability… Read More

Board Member Profile: Luke Cicora

Luke Cicora joined the RISE Board of Directors in August 2021, inspired by a longstanding desire to give back to the community he calls home. Luke moved to Saratoga Springs in 2000 for work, knowing no one in the area. Over the years, he built a life, friendships, and deep roots in the city. As… Read More

The Healing Power of Equine Therapy at SunRise

At SunRise, therapeutic experiences extend beyond traditional sessions. Healing often happens through connection, presence, and meaningful interaction. Recently, residents participated in a special equine-assisted experience that beautifully demonstrated the emotional impact animals can have in a therapeutic setting.   During the visit, residents had the opportunity to engage with Lexi Squared, a gentle and intuitive… Read More

Investing in Dignity, Stability, and Better Outcomes

At the New York State Capitol, our Executive Director, Sybil Newell, stood alongside fellow advocates calling for additional funding to strengthen New York’s mental health and substance-use disorder system. Community-based providers like RISE are facing a workforce crisis driven by rising costs and lagging wages. As Sybil shared: “People come to us after cycling through… Read More

Board Member Profile: Patrick Shafer

  Patrick Shafer has proudly served on the RISE Board of Directors for eight years. He joined the board alongside several long-standing members and has had the opportunity to witness firsthand the tremendous growth of the agency over nearly a decade. Patrick was introduced to RISE through former board member Billy Taft. At the time,… Read More

An Evening of Impact: Board of Directors Dinner 2026

Our recent Board of Directors Dinner was a meaningful evening centered on connection, reflection, and the powerful impact of RISE programs. Each Program Director invited a resident from their program to join us and share their personal story. These residents spoke directly to our Board of Directors about their journeys — where they began, the… Read More

Celebrating Community: Holiday Parties at Rise Above and Progressive Steps Apartments

The holiday season is a time for connection, reflection, and joy—and at Rise Above and Progressive Steps Apartments, those values were on full display during this year’s holiday celebrations. Residents and staff came together to enjoy festive gatherings filled with laughter, shared meals, music, and seasonal cheer.   For many residents, the holidays can be… Read More