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.

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:

Have greater self-esteem
Stay in school
Pursue further education
Engage in fewer risky behaviors

Since 2015:

35 students have graduated from high school

17 students have pursued higher education

3 students have completed a Bachelor's degree

5 students have completed technical certifications

OUR FUNDERS

Our programs are funded through grants, private donations, and funds raised through our annual Blue Jean Ball. The organizations below support us and many other organizations through contributions received. Please click on their logos to learn more about the work they are doing.