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About Us

Children Who Thrive Create a Community That Thrives

At Kids On The Rise, we believe that children are most likely to reach their full potential when surrounded and supported by positive, caring adults. A mentor listens, encourages, establishes positive boundaries and acts as a strong role model to help students develop a sense of hope and vision for their futures. 

Kids Running

Our Story

Kids On The Rise, originally the SMILE program, has been matching students with mentors since 1991 through a partnership with Rural Cumberland Resources. Students who participated in the SMILE program were paired with a tutor who met with them to assist with their academic development. In 2003, Kids On The Rise was established as a separate organization. Over the years, the organization found that students' needs encompassed more than academic assistance and the program began to focus on building a one-on-one relationship with a mentor. We currently serve approximately 55 students in grades K - 12 in Cumberland County schools.  

Our Results

Students who are mentored are more likely to:

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  • Have greater self-esteem

  • Stay in school

  • Pursue further education

  • Engage in fewer risky behaviors

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Since 2015:

31 students have graduated from high school

15 students have pursued higher education

3 students have completed a Bachelor's degree

4 students have completed technical certifications

Meet The Team

Board of Directors

Josh Stone, President

Stone & Jones CPAS

Bridgette Cox, Secretary

Assistant Principal, Stone Elementary

Current Mentor

Derek Allen

Chick-fil-A

Anne Hofinga

Sage Intacct

Current Mentor

Kelly Thurman

Brown Elementary School 

Stan Zuercher

Zurich Homes

Former Mentor

Mary Coates, Vice President

Retired, Former Mentor

Ben Whitson, Treasurer

Water Leak Relief

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Christy Dolinich

Stone & Jones CPAs

Charles Lusso

Retired, U.S. Army

Tim Vandagriff

Total Military Management

Former Mentor

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