#RiseAbove - In today’s world, where challenges can seem insurmountable, there shines a beacon of hope for Native American youth. RiseAbove, with its unwavering mission, stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of these young individuals to carve out healthier and more fulfilling lives, despite the odds stacked against them.

Recently, Youth and Families were treated to a special evening at the Nisqually Youth Center in Olympia. The event featured former NBA player Chris Herren, who shared his personal journey of overcoming addiction in a bid to inspire the youth to choose a different path. The gathering also saw the presence of notable figures including Governor Jay Inslee, and Sonics legends Lenny Wilkens and George Karl, alongside RiseAbove founder Jaci McCormick.

Legendary coach Lenny Wilkens aptly summarizes the essence of RiseAbove: "RiseAbove represents an opportunity for all individuals to rise above their current circumstances." By providing youths with the tools for personal development through sports and mentorship, RiseAbove is nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.

In January alone, RiseAbove reached a milestone by serving over 1,300 youths across the nation, spanning states like North Carolina, Colorado, and Washington. This monumental achievement underscores RiseAbove's unwavering commitment to rewriting the narrative for Native youth.

As we extend our gratitude to the tireless efforts of the RiseAbove team, it's essential to recognize the impact of their work. In a world where distractions abound, their dedication to shaping the future of our youth is truly commendable.

To learn more about RiseAbove and be a part of this transformative initiative, visit nativeyouthriseabove.org. Together, let's empower Native youth to rise above adversity and write their own stories of resilience and triumph.