Hope in Action
Follow the RISE Journey
When Preparation Meets Purpose:
Advancing Crisis Response Together in Dubois County
The Dubois County IRACS Team is proud to partner with Dubois County Law Enforcement Officers in participating in Crisis Intervention Training (CIT), strengthening our community’s response to individuals experiencing mental health and substance use crises. This collaborative training enhances communication, de-escalation skills, and trauma-informed approaches, ensuring that those in crisis are met with understanding, safety, and appropriate support.
As part of the training, IRACS Team members actively supported instruction by role-playing several real-life crisis scenarios. These hands-on exercises allowed officers to practice de-escalation strategies, improve communication skills, and refine their responses in a safe, learning-focused environment. By simulating realistic situations, the team helped bridge the gap between theory and field application—building confidence and preparedness for real-world encounters.
Together, we are strengthening partnerships, promoting safety, and creating pathways to treatment and stabilization whenever possible.
A Champion for Change: Vanessa Phillips Earns Statewide Recognition
We are honored to share that our Director of Forensic Services, Vanessa Phillips, has been named the 2026 Change Agent in Mental Health Justice Award recipient by NAMI Indiana.
Vanessa will be formally recognized on March 5 at the NAMI Indiana Mental Health and Criminal Justice Summit for her outstanding leadership and steadfast advocacy at the intersection of mental health and the justice system. Her work exemplifies what meaningful systems change looks like—collaborative, compassionate, and rooted in dignity.
This recognition reflects the heart of RISE: a deep belief in recovery, a commitment to bridging gaps between systems, and a promise to stand alongside individuals and families as they navigate some of life’s most challenging moments.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the individual who nominated Vanessa. Your belief in this work—and in the difference it is making—means more than we can fully express.
We are equally grateful for our partners and community collaborators whose dedication and shared vision make this work possible every single day.
Please join us in congratulating Vanessa on this well-deserved honor.
HB 1296 Advances in the Senate
We’re excited to share that HB 1296 – Mental Health Services has officially passed out of the Senate Health and Provider Services Committee with unanimous support.
This important legislation strengthens Indiana’s recovery support system by establishing certification standards for Integrated Reentry and Correctional Support (IRACS) programs and creating clear, consistent standards for certified recovery residences. These safeguards help ensure people leaving incarceration have access to safe, ethical, and effective recovery support—while preserving access to critical services across the state.
We are especially proud of Vanessa Phillips, our Director of Forensic Services, who has been testifying on behalf of this bill, sharing real-world experience from the front lines of jail-based and reentry peer support. We’re also grateful to stand alongside Superior Court Judge Dan Murrie, whose leadership and commitment to person-centered solutions continue to make a meaningful impact in our community.
Testimony highlighted how IRACS programs are already reducing recidivism in participating counties and providing recovery-oriented, peer-led support both inside jails and beyond. Voices from across the system—including advocates, providers, law enforcement, and individuals with lived experience—came together to support this bill and the protections it brings.
Thank you to Representative Bascom and Senator Clark for sponsoring and championing HB 1296. This is a strong step forward for mental health and substance use recovery in Indiana.
Dubois County IRACS Celebrates First FREEDOM Graduates
Dubois County IRACS proudly celebrated the first-ever graduation of the FREEDOM Therapeutic Journaling Class serving individuals in Dubois County—and it was a moment filled with meaning, courage, and hope.
FREEDOM (Finding Recovery, Expression, Empowerment, Direction, Opportunity, and Meaning) participants committed to showing up, reflecting honestly, and engaging in a process that asked them to slow down, look inward, and put their experiences into words over the course of 10 weeks.
Throughout the course, participants explored:
Personal values and identity beyond past behavior
Emotional awareness and healthy expression
Accountability without shame
Coping skills for stress, trauma, and cravings
Goal setting, direction, and purpose
Building meaning and hope for life beyond incarceration
Therapeutic journaling is not easy work—especially in a correctional setting. It requires vulnerability, honesty, and a willingness to sit with difficult emotions and experiences. Each graduate demonstrated remarkable bravery simply by choosing to participate, write, reflect, and share in a space built on respect and trust.
The IRACS team is incredibly proud of every graduate for the courage they showed throughout this program. Their willingness to engage in this work speaks volumes about their commitment to growth, recovery, and change.
This graduation represents more than the completion of a class—it marks a step forward in healing, self-awareness, and the belief that transformation is possible. We are honored to walk alongside these individuals and to continue offering programs that center dignity, empowerment, and second chances.
Congratulations to our FREEDOM graduates! Your voices matter, your stories matter, and your courage does not go unnoticed.
Dubois County IRACS Awarded DCARC Grant
We are incredibly grateful to the Dubois County Advocacy for Prevention and Recovery (ARC) Council for their continued investment in recovery and re-entry support within our community.
RISE Peer Recovery was honored to receive $3,000 through the 2025 ARC grant cycle, funding that will go directly toward essential re-entry supports for the individuals we serve. These include basic but critical needs such as toiletries, phones, gas cards, and food cards—resources that make a meaningful difference during the first days and weeks following release.
These early supports help reduce barriers, promote stability, and allow individuals to focus on recovery and successful reentry rather than immediate survival needs.
Thank you to the Dubois County ARC Council and community partners for prioritizing recovery, collaboration, and second chances. Your commitment is helping strengthen Dubois County one person at a time.
Thank You, United Way of Daviess County!
We are incredibly thankful for the continued support and partnership of:
United Way of Daviess County.
When a community chooses to invest in people, real and lasting change happens. Because of this support, individuals on their recovery journey have greater access to encouragement, connection, and the stability they need to keep moving forward. That kind of impact is only possible through strong local partners who believe in the power of recovery and community-driven solutions.
Thank you to United Way of Daviess County for showing up, standing with us, and helping strengthen Daviess County one person at a time.
We are proud to do this work alongside you.
A Moment to Pause, Celebrate, and Give Thanks
Today was one of those moments that reminds us exactly why we do this work.
As we wrap up another year, our team at RISE Peer Recovery had the opportunity to pause, come together, and simply enjoy one another at our annual holiday party—and what a gift that was.
We laughed hard, played games, shared an incredible meal, exchanged gifts, and most importantly, connected as a team. In a line of work that can often feel heavy, today was light, joyful, and filled with gratitude.
We are deeply thankful for this team—individuals who show up every day with heart, compassion, lived experience, and an unwavering commitment to the people we serve. You carry hope into hard places, and that work matters more than words can fully express.
A heartfelt thank you to the RISE Board for your continued support and belief in our mission, and to M & M Catering for preparing an amazing meal that brought everyone together around the table.
We don’t take moments like today for granted. This team is something special, and we are incredibly proud to stand beside each of you.
RISE Peer Recovery Awarded Grant from Being for Others Health and Wellness Foundation
RISE Peer Recovery is incredibly grateful to be named a grant recipient during the inaugural year of funding from Being for Others Health and Wellness Foundation.
Through its final 2025 grant cycle, Being for Others invested more than $650,000 into 16 organizations across Southwest Indiana, and we are honored to be part of this meaningful regional impact.
This $10,000 award directly supports RISE Peer Recovery’s peer support program, allowing us to continue providing peer-led reentry services for justice-involved individuals. These services include in-jail engagement, individualized transition planning, and post-release recovery support. Through lived-experience guidance and consistent connection, this funding helps individuals navigate recovery, rebuild stability, and reduce recidivism.
We are especially proud to stand alongside so many organizations doing compassionate, mission-driven work throughout our region. The vision and leadership of Being for Others Health and Wellness Foundation strengthens communities by addressing root causes and investing in long-term, people-centered solutions.
Thank you to the Being for Others team for believing in peer recovery and community-driven change. We are honored to partner with you in building healthier, more connected communities.
To learn more about Being for Others Health and Wellness Foundation, visit www.beingforothers.org.
RISE Peer Recovery Staff In-Service
Today’s staff in-service was all about learning, connection, and strengthening our team culture—with plenty of laughter along the way.
We kicked off the day with a lighthearted icebreaker: each team member was randomly assigned a coworker and given two minutes to draw their portrait and write three positive things about them. While the compliments were sincere and thoughtful, the artwork itself ranged somewhere between kindergarten sketches and FBI witness descriptions.
Despite the questionable artistic talent on display, the purpose of the activity was meaningful. Taking intentional time to appreciate one another helps us stay connected, grounded, and supported as a team.
Recovery work is challenging and deeply human. Showing up for one another—building trust, encouragement, and shared moments of joy—is just as important as showing up for the individuals and communities we serve.
We’re grateful for a day filled with growth, laughter, and teamwork, and for a staff that continues to support one another every step of the way.
Ribbon Cutting Celebration: A Day of Community, Hope, and Recovery
We cannot begin to describe the gratitude and joy we felt as we welcomed so many incredible stakeholders, partners, and clients from across the counties we serve to celebrate our ribbon-cutting.
We were honored to be joined by representatives from the Governor’s Office, State Representatives, Congressman’s Offices, judges, prosecutors, sheriffs, mayors, agency leaders, and many more. Seeing such strong support reminds us of the power and resilience of our communities.
Your presence means more than words can express. To be recognized for the work we do with you, not just for you, is deeply meaningful—and it inspires us to keep going, knowing that together, we are changing lives.
To our clients: THANK YOU! Thank you for trusting us, for allowing us to walk beside you in your recovery journey. This building is for YOU—your space, the recovery community’s space, and a living symbol of hope, healing, and connection.
We also extend our heartfelt thanks to United Way of Daviess County. Their incredible contribution of nearly $200,000 in Matching Grant funds through the Statewide Capital Initiative Projects turned what was once just a dream into a reality.
Today proved one thing above all:
When community comes together, recovery wins.
Knox County - Rooted in Recovery
Color Me Recovered
Daviess County Recovery Day in Eastside Park
Our community came together in the most beautiful way to celebrate hope, healing, and connection.
Recovery is more than just a personal journey—it’s a community journey. It’s about showing up for one another, sharing stories, and reminding each other that none of us walk this path alone.
From powerful testimonies to the joy of live music, kids’ laughter, delicious food, and even a splash of color—today reminded us what recovery looks like: connection, resilience, and love.
This incredible day was the result of the vision and teamwork of the Daviess Advances Recovery Access Consortium (DARAC), working alongside RISE Peer Recovery to create a space where recovery is not just supported, but celebrated.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Your generosity made this celebration possible and helped us continue breaking stigma, building bridges, and lifting every person on their recovery journey.
Title Sponsors
Daviess County Community Corrections
The Insurance Shop, LLC
Diamond Sponsor
Perdue Farms
Gold Sponsors
Dr. Weisman Medical Services
Behind The Wire Ministries
Ruby Sponsors
Bethany Church
Lengacher Steel
IU Center for Community-Engaged Dissemination and Implementation Research (CCEDIR)
A special THANK YOU to L4G for providing food that kept everyone smiling throughout the day!
Relive the Day
We’ve shared the photos we captured, but we’d love to see the celebration through your eyes, too!
Orange County Recovery Day
Pike County - Voices of Recovery
We were honored to be part of the Voices of Recovery event in Pike County.
This gathering focused on raising awareness, breaking the stigma, and sharing messages of hope for everyone touched by substance use and recovery.
We are deeply grateful for our dedicated peers who show up every day to serve Pike County with compassion and strength. We are also thankful for the incredible support we continue to receive from this community—it truly makes a difference.
Moving In with Gratitude: Our New Space Comes to Life
Our new building has been furnished thanks to the incredible generosity of Kimball International. We are deeply grateful for their donation, which allows us to create a warm and welcoming space for our clients and community.
We would also like to extend a special thank you to Tyler Schmitt with U B Klem Furniture in Jasper for making the delivery possible with box truck support—we couldn’t have done it without you.
Today, our team came together to unload and assemble the furniture in preparation for our upcoming grand opening. This is one more step toward creating a space filled with hope, connection, and recovery.
Summer of Recovery in Dubois County
We had the honor of being part of the Summer of Recovery event in Jasper!
It was an incredible day filled with connection, hope, and community. We loved seeing so many familiar faces and meeting new ones who are walking their recovery journey or supporting a loved one. Events like this remind us that recovery is not only possible—it is worth celebrating.
Thank you to everyone who stopped by our table to chat, learn more about RISE, and share your stories. Together, we are stronger.
THANK YOU TO CEDA of PIKE COUNTY
RISE Peer Recovery would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to CEDA of Pike County for supporting our work through grant funding.
Because of their generosity, we are able to provide our peers in Pike County with essentials such as emergency toiletry kits, gas cards, food cards, and more. While these items may seem small, they make a meaningful difference in helping individuals take their next steps in recovery with dignity and support.
We even had the opportunity to shop together while selecting these items, making the process both impactful and enjoyable.
We are grateful for community partners like CEDA who believe in the power of recovery and connection. Together, we are building stronger, healthier communities.
CELEBRATING SUCCESS IN RECOVERY:
Congratulations to the latest Daviess County Matrix Graduates!
Please join us in congratulating these amazing individuals for their dedication, resilience, and leadership. Their journeys remind us that recovery is not only possible—it’s powerful.
Dubois County Celebrates First WRAP Graduation
Huge congratulations to our recent graduates of the Wellness Recovery Action Planning (WRAP) program inside the Dubois County Security Center.
Over the past 10 weeks, these individuals have shown dedication, growth, and resilience. We are honored to walk alongside them as they take powerful steps forward in their recovery journeys.
We are especially grateful for the ongoing collaboration and support from the Dubois County Security Center. Not only do they make groups like this possible—they also joined our IRACS team for a special field trip to the Dove House to celebrate one participant who was released before we could hold the graduation inside the jail.
A special thank-you goes to Parlour Donuts Jasper for generously donating treats to make the day even sweeter.
Recovery is real. Community matters. And together, we are building something special.
Have You Spotted Rise Out in The Community?
We love connecting with our community at local events! Recently, you may have seen our team waving, smiling, and sharing resources at the Vincennes 4th of July Parade, Summer Explosion, the Knox County Fair, and the Pike County Fair.
Want to see us again? Here’s where you’ll find us next:
July 31: Old Settler Parade – Odon
August 3: Strassenfest Parade – Jasper
August 4: Pike County Night Out
August 5: Vincennes Night Out
August 16: Summer of Recovery – Jasper
September 13: Daviess County Recovery Day in the Park
September 20: Knox County Recovery Day
September 25: Recovery Awareness – Martin County
We can’t wait to see you at these upcoming community events. Stop by, say hello, and learn more about how we’re supporting recovery across southern Indiana.
RISE Peer Recovery is thrilled to announce our expansion into Pike County!
With two full-time Certified Peer Support Professionals now serving the area, we are committed to providing more intentional, person-centered support for individuals on their recovery journey.
This expansion is more than just growth—it represents a deeper investment in connection, healing, and hope for our community.
We are incredibly grateful to 14 News for helping us share this important story and highlight the value of peer support in rural Indiana. Media coverage like this plays a vital role in reducing stigma and shining a light on the power of recovery.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to build bridges to recovery in Pike County and beyond!
Rise Peer Recovery Expands to Pike County
We’re thrilled to announce that the Pike County Council has officially approved RISE Peer Recovery’s first-year funding request to launch dedicated peer recovery services in Pike County.
This marks a significant milestone in our mission to make peer-led support accessible to individuals and families affected by substance use and mental health challenges—right in their own community.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the Pike County Prosecutor’s Office, CEDA, and the Pike County Sheriff’s Department for their unwavering belief in the power of recovery. Their early and ongoing support has been instrumental in making this vision a reality.
At RISE, we’re honored to partner with Pike County as we work together to build a future rooted in hope, connection, and opportunity.
RISE Re-Certified as an Indiana Recovery Community Organization
We’re proud to share that RISE Peer Recovery has been officially re-certified as an Indiana Recovery Community Organization (RCO) through June 2027!
This important recognition from the Indiana Recovery Network and the Division of Mental Health and Addiction affirms our continued commitment to peer-led recovery services across the state. It reflects the dedication of our team, the strength of our partnerships, and—most of all—the courage and resilience of the individuals we are privileged to support every day.
At RISE, we believe in the power of lived experience to create lasting change. This certification allows us to keep advancing that mission by building stronger, more connected communities throughout Indiana.
A heartfelt thank you to the Indiana Recovery Network and the Division of Mental Health and Addiction for their continued support of peer-led recovery efforts. We’re honored to carry this work forward.
United Way of Daviess County Awards Housing Assistance Grant to Rise Peer Recovery
We’re excited to announce that RISE Peer Recovery has been awarded a $29,936 grant from United Way of Daviess County! This funding will support our Peer Recovery Coaches in providing temporary housing for individuals entering or actively engaged in treatment.
Stable housing is one of the most critical—yet often overlooked—components of a successful recovery journey. As Zella Taylor, CEO and Executive Director of United Way of Daviess County, shared:
“One of the biggest barriers to recovery is the lack of stable housing during treatment. A night or weekend in a hotel isn’t enough to rebuild a life or a future.”
This grant will allow us to bridge that gap—offering individuals a safe, supportive place to stay during some of the most vulnerable moments of their recovery.
Building a Brighter Future: RISE Recovery Remodel
We are excited to share wonderful news: RISE Peer Recovery has been awarded a matching capital grant of up to $196,200 through the Indiana United Ways Statewide Capital Projects Initiative. This incredible opportunity is made possible thanks to the generous support of United Way of Daviess County.
This funding allows us to begin transforming our newly acquired space—located just a short walk from the jail and open to the entire community—into a Community-Based Recovery Center. More than just a building, this center will be a place of connection, purpose, and hope for those we serve.
Renovations are already underway, and we’re thrilled to see the progress as we work toward opening our doors in the coming months.
We extend our deepest thanks to United Way of Daviess County for believing in the power of recovery, second chances, and connection. This project would not be possible without your partnership.
Together, we are building a stronger, more supportive community.
RISE Peer Recovery Expands to Pike County with Strong Local Support
We are excited to announce that on June 16th, the Pike County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to fund the first year of RISE Peer Recovery’s operations in Pike County. This marks a significant step forward in strengthening local recovery services and supporting individuals on their journey to wellness.
The final step in this process rests with the Pike County Council, which is scheduled to vote on the MOU on Tuesday, July 8th at 8:30 AM at the Courthouse Auditorium in Petersburg, IN.
We are deeply grateful for the continued support of our county leadership and look forward to building a strong partnership as we expand recovery services in the community.
RISE Stands Strong at the Recovery Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C.
RISE Leadership was recently in Washington, D.C. for the Recovery Leadership Summit, hosted by Faces & Voices of Recovery. We’re honored to be among so many passionate advocates and change-makers—standing bold, united, and unshakable in our shared mission to advance recovery nationwide.
Before the summit began, our team had the opportunity to explore our nation’s capital. These moments of reflection and connection reminded us of the strength found in community—and the importance of staying grounded in the values that drive our work.
We’re especially proud to share that RISE Executive Director Brian Peek and Director of Forensic Services Vanessa Phillips were invited to help open the summit as keynote panelists. They lifted up the often-overlooked voice of rural recovery, highlighting the power of community-rooted solutions and the real impact being made back home through RISE.
As we engage with leaders and organizations from across the country, we do so with a clear mission, a strong heart, and a deep commitment to learning, collaboration, and growth.
When recovery leadership is rooted in connection, there is nothing we can’t achieve—together.
UNITED WAY
Day of Caring
The RISE Peer Recovery team was proud to take part in the Daviess County Day of Caring, organized by United Way. Rolling up our sleeves and getting involved in service work is more than just volunteering—it’s a meaningful part of recovery.
Giving back reminds us where we’ve been, celebrates how far we’ve come, and strengthens the connection that keeps us moving forward. Our team had a blast working side-by-side, sharing laughter, and showing up for our community—just as they’ve shown up for us.
At RISE, we believe that recovery is about more than healing. It’s about hope, purpose, connection, and giving back. And yes, it’s also about finding joy and having fun along the way.
A big thank you to United Way for organizing such a powerful day of impact and community building!
Strengthening Community Connections: RISE Meets with ARC
The RISE Leadership team had the pleasure of meeting with Jordan Furnish, Business Representative for ARC: Addiction Rehab Center. Jordan provided valuable insights into ARC’s comprehensive continuum of care, sharing an overview of the diverse treatment options available to support individuals at every stage of their recovery journey.
We are deeply grateful for community partners like ARC who are dedicated to delivering accessible, person-centered care. These kinds of collaborations strengthen our ability to connect individuals with the resources and support they need—when they need it most.
Celebrating SUCCESS:
Jade Sorrells Graduates from Courage House
We are thrilled to celebrate an incredible milestone in the recovery journey of Jade Sorrells, who recently graduated from Courage House—a structured 9–18 month sober living residence.
Jade first connected with RISE through the IRACS program while incarcerated. Upon his release, he continued his journey with the support of our community-based services. Since then, Jade has shown unwavering commitment to his recovery and personal growth.
Pictured with Jade is his Community Peer Coach, Jonathan Hooper, who has walked alongside him every step of the way, offering guidance, encouragement, and support.
Jade’s hard work, resilience, and dedication have led him to this moment, and we couldn’t be more proud. We look forward to all that lies ahead for him—and we know his future is bright.
Congratulations, Jade! Your RISE family is cheering you on!
RISE Launches Criminal Justice Matrix Groups in Dubois County Jail
We’re excited to share that big things are happening in Dubois County! This week marks the official launch of Criminal Justice Matrix groups inside the Dubois County Jail—an important step forward in expanding access to recovery support for justice-involved individuals.
Led by our dedicated IRACS peer team, these groups will meet twice a week and focus on early recovery skills, relapse prevention, and preparation for life after incarceration. The goal: to equip participants with the tools, knowledge, and peer support needed to build a strong foundation in recovery.
We are deeply grateful to the Dubois County Sheriff’s Department for their partnership and commitment to second chances. Their support makes it possible to bring meaningful, person-centered programming to those who need it most.
We’re proud to be doing this work—together.
RISE Leaders Present on Harm Reduction at USI Social Work Conference
We’re proud to share that Vanessa Phillips, Director of Forensic Services at RISE Peer Recovery, and Mark Storms, Executive Director of Courage House, recently presented at the University of Southern Indiana’s Social Work Conference. Their presentation focused on the life-saving power of Narcan and its role in harm reduction and overdose prevention.
Drawing from their extensive experience in the recovery and behavioral health fields, Vanessa and Mark offered valuable insights into how Narcan can be used as a critical tool in combating the opioid crisis. They also explored the importance of reducing stigma, increasing access to life-saving resources, and empowering communities to take meaningful action.
We’re grateful to USI for hosting this important conversation and for bringing attention to the urgent need for education and support in the fight against substance use disorders.
Together, we’re building a more informed and compassionate response to addiction—and saving lives in the process.
IRACS Team Participates in Intensive Bootcamp Training in Dubois County
Our IRACS team is gathering in Dubois County for a three-day intensive IRACS Bootcamp Training. This specialized training is designed to enhance our team’s skills, strengthen service delivery, and deepen our commitment to supporting individuals through reentry and recovery.
Through focused learning, collaborative discussions, and hands-on activities, our staff is engaging in meaningful growth—both personally and professionally. This time together is not only an investment in our team but in the communities and individuals we serve every day.
We’re excited for the powerful conversations, renewed energy, and strengthened connections that will come from this experience. Here’s to continued growth and impact through teamwork and purpose.
RISE Team is "Kicking the Stigma!"
RISE Peer Recovery was proud to represent Daviess County at the recent Indianapolis Colts vs. Miami Dolphins game as part of the “Kicking The Stigma” campaign—an initiative dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and breaking down stigma.
Our team stood alongside advocates from across the state to raise awareness, spark conversations, and show support for individuals impacted by mental health and substance use challenges.
We’re grateful to the Indianapolis Colts for using their platform to shine a light on this critical issue and for inviting partners like RISE to be part of the movement. Together, we are changing the conversation around mental health—one step, one story, and one game at a time.
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