June 14, 2023

HIGHTSTOWN, NJ (MERCER)–Rise, a nonprofit organization that assists local families and individuals in recovering from setbacks and achieving their full potential, has been named a 2023 Champion in Action® by Citizens in the category of Youth Summer Workforce Programming. The award includes $35,000 in unrestricted funding as well as significant promotional and volunteer support in recognition of the organization’s critical work.

“Congratulations to Rise on being selected as Citizens’ inaugural Champion in Action in New Jersey. Your exceptional summer workforce program provides local youth with valuable training and the necessary skills to be successful business leaders. We are proud to support Rise and its dedication to developing the workforce of the future,” said Domenick Cama, President, New York and New Jersey Metro Region, Citizens.

By teaching young people how to approach challenges with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn, entrepreneurship education at Rise helps them develop important life skills and increases their chances of success in whatever they choose to do. The Champions in Action funding will be used for summer youth entrepreneurship learning opportunities to help build business skills for local at-risk youth by providing salary for instructors and motivational speakers, trips to colleges and other special destinations, and supplies to keep the program running and activities interesting.

“We are incredibly grateful for Citizens generous contribution of $35,000 to support our Champions in Action project, focusing on youth entrepreneurship,” said Leslie Koppel, Executive Director of Rise. “I can’t wait to see this program’s positive impact on our students as they build confidence, develop their creativity, and learn essential business skills. Thank you for your support and helping us make a difference in our community by empowering and nurturing the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs.”

Citizens created the Champions in Action program in 2002 to address the unique social challenges faced by communities it serves. The initiative rewards established nonprofit organizations, to help them reach the next level. Citizens has expanded its signature Champions in Action program to include the New Jersey market, with Rise being the inaugural Champion this year. Over more than 20 years, the program has awarded upwards of $10 million in contributions and promotional support to more than 370 nonprofits across the bank’s footprint.

For more information about the Champions in Action program, visit www.citizensbank.com/champions

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