the rising for boys

The Rising is our signature program, designed to prepare Black youth to succeed in school and life. The group mentoring program is gender-specific, helping to transform the lives of boys and young men in area middle and high schools.

We are currently working with young scholars at five Seattle schools — Meany, Denny International and Mercer International Middle Schools, TOPS K-8, and Lincoln High School. Programming is delivered by CARES-trained facilitators, mentors and professionals. We have a separate program for girls. Learn more here.

A positive impact

The Rising for Boys helps instill the determination and critical thinking skills needed to avoid painful, predicable futures, with a special focus on boys from under-resourced families. We also partner with public agencies and community organizations for services if students and their families need to overcome food and housing insecurities.

A recent Seattle study, conducted in 2026, showed 58 percent of students who participated in The Rising improved their problem-solving and decision-making skills, and 78 percent reported a high overall well-being. Racial identity and racial pride also improved as did social and emotional skills.

The Rising Chant is part of each Rising session.

The Rising Chant

We are BRAVE. We are BRILLIANT.

We are STRONG and RESILIENT.

We are THOSE the WORLD AWAITS.

We are destined to be GREAT.

The importance of mentoring

Watch this video to hear what Black youth, some in foster care, say about the importance of mentoring.