The Art of Housing: A Blog

Rain House Reopens: A Heartfelt Thank You to Governor Hochul and New York State Office of Mental Health

At RISE Housing and Support Services, we believe that housing is more than shelter—it’s the foundation of recovery, dignity, and community. That belief is what made the recent rehabilitation of Rain House, one of our longest-standing Community Residences, such a meaningful milestone. Today, we are proud to share that Rain House has officially reopened, newly… Read More

RISE Field Day Picnic: A Day of Fun, Food, and Connection

On Wednesday, June 11th, the peaceful grounds of Gavin Park were anything but calm as RISE staff descended for our annual Field Day Picnic. What started as a wholesome team-building event quickly evolved into a full-blown, no-mercy battle for bragging rights. (Okay, maybe not that dramatic—but things got competitive.)   Fueled by a catered BBQ… Read More

Adelphi Street Shelter Celebrates 2 Years of Impact!

On June 12th, RISE Housing and Support Services proudly celebrated the 2nd Anniversary of the Adelphi Street Shelter—and what an afternoon it was! From noon to 2 PM, community members, partners, and supporters gathered at 4 Adelphi Street to reflect on two years of life-changing, low-barrier shelter and harm reduction services. The celebration was filled… Read More

RISE Celebrates Diversity by Creating Safe Places

At RISE we believe in creating safe places for individuals to seek the help they need regardless of their circumstances, race, or sexual orientation. We recognize that the disparity members of our community face when seeking to overcome mental health, substance use, and other life challenges such as homelessness is often compounded by systemic barriers,… Read More

Bringing Beauty to Rain House: Murals that Honor, Inspire, and Heal

When you step into the newly renovated Rain House, you will notice more than just fresh paint and updated rooms—you will be met with something deeper, more emotional: a quiet moment of beauty. Local artist Kendra Farstad has completed two of three murals planned for Rain House, and each brushstroke tells a story. Her work… Read More

Meeting People Where They Are: How RISE is Using Opioid Settlement Funds to Save Lives in Saratoga County

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… 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

Turn Awareness Into Action

The theme for Mental Health Month 2025, “Turn Awareness into Action,” aligns perfectly with our core value to serve as a catalyst, leader, and partner in meeting the housing and recovery needs of our community.  Over the past few years RISE has turned awareness into action by finding the gaps in care in our community… Read More

April 2025 Staff Recognition

Please join us in congratulating the April 2025 Recognition Recipients! Executive Director’s Recognition The Executive Director’s Recognition is given to individuals who’s insight, efforts, and innovation elevate their program. Please join us in congratulating the Human Resources team. “I would like to give an Executive Director’s recognition to the HR team- Brendan Myers, Leisa Spakoski, and Tammy… 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