Transforming lives, building futures: The impact of Rise

Our community is a tapestry woven with threads of diverse experiences and aspirations. Yet, for too long, certain strands have been overlooked, limiting the potential of our young people. This is why Rise was launched – to break down barriers and create opportunities for all.

Through the delivery of workshops and providing access to free KS4 school resources, Rise offers individuals opportunities to develop their skills, better understand different career paths and learn from the countless years of accumulated experience of our volunteers.

Championed by ICAEW and supported by over 30 different employers, Rise continues to be a catalyst for change which is growing every day. New firms partner with us and commit to an annual volunteering ambition to support school workshops facilitated by The Talent Foundry across the UK. This year alone our volunteers have successfully supported 49,500 young individuals (students aged 14 – 16) equipping them with the tools to succeed in the modern world of work.

From potential to purpose

As the 2023-24 academic year draws to a close, we take a closer look at some of the key highlights from the last 10 months shared by students, teachers and volunteers alike.

“On behalf of the senior leadership team, families and students, I would like to thank you for conducting this workshop, delivering it with enthusiasm, making it engaging and informative for year 10 and, above all, answering their questions so they have gone away with a much clearer idea of the “World of Work” in terms of skills and how to develop these.“

Teacher

“It has helped me become more confident in sharing my own ideas.“

Student

“It was really great to have the message reinforced that you are more than your grades, that employers look for more than academic achievement, that you are already developing a wide range of valuable skills and you need to have the confidence and be given the language to talk about yourself and your strengths.“

Teacher

“The workshop gave me more confidence and more knowledge about the working world.“

Student

“I certainly came out impacted by the experience in a positive way. It was a great reminder of some of the challenges faced by young people today, but also their desire and creativity.“

Volunteer, BDO

“The session was really well organised and I felt completely supported by the facilitator and teachers at the school. The young people who were engaged got a great deal out of the session.“

Volunteer, PWC

At the heart of Rise is a belief in the power of community. By supporting underserved communities, our initiative aims to create sustainable change from within, fostering a network of support and opportunity for young people.

Key stats

• 49,500 students reached,
• 319 workshops delivered this academic year alone,
• 34% of workshops were delivered in rural and coastal areas,
• 3,000 KS4 school resources were downloaded,
• 650+ volunteers registered,
• Finalist in the Consortium category of the Business Charity Awards 2024,
• Shortlisted for ‘Most Innovative Collaboration’ in the Corporate Engagement Awards,
• Shortlisted for ‘Corporate Partnership of The Year’ in the Third Sector Awards.

The success of Rise is underpinned by the dedication of hundreds of volunteers who give their time and expertise to mentor and guide young people. These volunteers, drawn from diverse professional backgrounds, provide invaluable support, helping to build young people’s confidence and aspirations.

A community united in purpose

Our program’s success is a testament to the power of collective action. Hundreds of volunteers have dedicated their time and expertise to mentoring, tutoring and guiding young people. Their unwavering belief in our youth has been instrumental in creating a supportive and nurturing environment.

By becoming a volunteer, you can play a pivotal role in shaping the lives of young people too. You’ll have the opportunity to share your knowledge, inspire dreams, and witness firsthand the transformative impact of your support.

Join us in building a brighter future. Become a volunteer today and help us transform lives.

Related article

“Social mobility means anyone from anywhere can advance in their career and in their life, no matter where they started and based off their own skills and abilities” Eliott James, Rise Volunteer at Deloitte.

Rise volunteers are crucial in sharing their lived experiences to inspire young people in social mobility cold spots across the UK to aim high. In this article, three Rise volunteers share their reasons for joining Rise and why others should volunteer too.

Celebrate the Rise Initiative’s amazing volunteers shaping a brighter future and read the full story here.