RISE First Annual Gala a Huge Success!

I want to personally thank each and every one of you that attended the November 14^th event held at Dave and Busters. The evening started off with a Social Hour listening to McKenzie Seaux performing live on stage. McKenzie just turned 12 years old and entertained with stories on her song writing skills followed by a great rendition of her music by this very talented young lady. The Matekis followed with an assortment of country and folk music that kept the crowd entertained throughout the evening. These artists believe in the RISE mission and also performed at our sixth annual End of Summer Bash back in September. Mike Peters Video Presentation of this year’s program pictures was a nice backdrop to the live entertainment. The Mexican buffet line was always busy. The pool and shuffle board tables stayed active as the player’s competitive energy and enthusiasm showed. The camaraderie between attendees exemplified the evening.

The highlight of the evening was the Award Ceremony. This is the first time RISE Adventures has recognized the volunteers and participants that went above and beyond anything we could have possibly imagined in their effort and involvement in the RISE mission. We truly appreciate each and every person involved with RISE Adventures but this year felt like we should start a new tradition acknowledging these individuals with a special plaque.

-          RISE Equipment Support of the Year 2009, Darrell Frank- As we continue to add equipment he welds and makes adaptive modifications to keep up with our ever growing needs.

-          RISE Volunteer Staff Support of the Year 2009, Spencer Larimore- Creates RISE Above & Beyond, MySpace and Facebook.

-          RISE Corporate Volunteer Group of the Year 2009, Kelly Fairall- Has orchestrated a large staff of quality volunteers for all major RISE Programs for the last two years from the PepsiCo Enable Group.

-          RISE Program Manager of the Year 2009, Andy Burton- In one short year has helped establish our largest program with over one thousand total attendees.

-          RISE Volunteer of the Year 2009, Joel “Peanut” Hendrix- Works 24/7 at maintaining and delivering our ever growing inventory of equipment and manages numerous programs.

-          RISE Title Sponsor Program Support of the Year 2009, Randy Smith/C&R Medical- Coaches, referees, and supports the quad rugby program each week.

-          Steve Carlson Memorial Hand Cyclist Leadership 2009, Ty Johnson- Steve’s favorite program was hand cycling and Ty worked with Steve in managing the program. With Steve’s untimely death, Ty took over what Steve had built and continues to lead and exemplify his qualities in this outstanding program.

-         Lift-Aids Participant of the Year 2009, Lea Stewart- Participates in all RISE programs year round. Her favorite is quad rugby but she explores new horizons by participating in all programs at a very high level.

-          C&R Medical Most Improved Participant of the Year 2009, Justin Miller- Came to RISE physically dysfunctional and his major growth through participation exceeded all expectations.

This was a very special evening. In closing I want to thank everyone in attendance, those that purchased items from the Silent Auction, and our two special Title Sponsors, Connie Stauffer and Randy Smith!

Paul Gray/CEO/RISE Adventures, Inc.

CLICK HERE to see more photos of the event.