2024 tested RISE in ways I never imagined when I took the helm in 2018. Last year, RISE and the country faced not only the growing division among Americans, but also the erosion of established rights by our nation’s highest court. Despite these challenges, RISE was ready and stepped up. The headwinds were fierce, but our resolve was even stronger. We did not stop. In fact, we pressed forward with determination, engaging nearly 50,000 participants across 979 events. We stayed agile, inclusive, and demonstrated some of the best teamwork I have ever witnessed in my years leading RISE. Above all, we remained steadfast in our mission, knowing that our work is more vital than ever.

RISE is maturing. Last year, we engaged a record number of people and achieved a 97% satisfaction rate—showing we not only did more, but we did it better. This year, as we celebrate RISE’s 10th anniversary, we are stepping fully into that maturity. Despite new challenges, we are setting ambitious goals, committed to preparing the sports community to make this country more inclusive and just. To support this, we will focus on strengthening relationship management, expanding financial diversity, refining and expanding RISE program offerings, and building greater external loyalty to RISE. Our mission is clear, and we are more determined than ever to drive meaningful change in the next decade and beyond.

2024 was also a year of enlightenment for me. This will be my final year serving as CEO of this incredible organization. Over the past several years, RISE has consistently exceeded expectations, and I’m incredibly proud to have helped craft a vision that has been embraced by this remarkable team—from the board to the staff, to our extended family. Together, we’ve achieved so much.

As I step into this final year, I’m filled with both humility and excitement for what’s ahead. However, we can’t do it alone. RISE needs your contribution of time, treasure or talent to keep forging ahead. Now, more than ever, we need your increased support to ensure that tomorrow is better than today. Thank you for making 2024 such a meaningful year, and I hope you’ll stand with us as we work together to make 2025 a year for the record books.