How can you help?

1. Donate

Making a donation via our Donate page is the quickest and most effective way to help.

launch box2. Put Together a Launch Box

Each year, hundreds of Massachusetts youth age out of the foster care system. Launch Boxes provide a few basic necessities as these young adults transition out on their own for the first time. A Launch Box is a plastic bin filled with basic supplies—such as towels, toiletries, and utensils—that will help young adults transition out of foster care to independent living. Specifically designed for young adults (18 to 23 years old) without a traditional safety net, Launch Boxes are given to the young adult by their social worker as a tangible and practical gift from the community.

Launch Boxes are a great way for community groups to donate in a tangible, meaningful way and help a local young adult transition out of foster care. Items can be found at dollar stores and other discount retailers. Small groups can divide up the list and individuals can shop separately to contribute to one Launch Box.

Click here for a shopping list and all the details you need.

3. Donate Items for Care Packages

Rise Above sends out Care Packages to youth in foster care who are defying the odds by attending college. Each care package is filled to the brim with study snacks, hygiene and school supplies, and gift cards and shipped off to a student.

We’re accepting donations of snacks, gift cards and other dorm goodies to add to our care packages. The full list of items we need is here or shop our Amazon Wish List. Consider holding a drive with your friends or community group or organize a collection at your workplace. Email us to arrange a drop-off or pick-up. Monetary donations are also always needed. Send gift cards to us at PO Box 174, Northbridge, MA 01534. E-gift cards can be sent to info@weriseabove.org.

4. Volunteer / Host an Event

Rise Above is in need of help planning special fundraisers! If you are interested in lending a hand or have an idea for a fundraiser, please contact us.

Other ideas include hosting a yard sale, dinner party, bake sale or raffle for Rise Above. Get your friends, family and co-workers involved! For more information, contact us.