On 19 December 2024, the Macon Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office proudly highlighted hope, transformation, and achievement during the celebration of a significant milestone in its youth intervention initiative.
The Third Annual R.I.S.E., Restoring Inspiration by Success in Education, Graduation ceremony was held at the Macon City Auditorium. Marking an impressive four-fold increase since the Initiative’s inception, 122 young graduates were honored and cheered on by District Attorney Anita Howard and staff, R.I.S.E. Ambassadors, community leaders and elected officials, along with the family and friends of the graduates.
Keynote speaker for the R.I.S.E graduation was Justice Verda Colvin of the Georgia Supreme Court. Justice Colvin, a former Superior Court Judge in the Macon Judicial Circuit, provided invaluable insights during this momentous occasion.
“Each graduate represents a story of personal transformation and renewed purpose,” said District Attorney Anita Howard. “Through R.I.S.E., we’re not just preventing crime – we’re nurturing dreams, healing trauma, and building a stronger community one young person at a time.”
R.I.S.E. is a groundbreaking initiative designed to support youth of Bibb, Peach, and Crawford Counties, focusing on their potential and fostering positive growth. Each participant is paired with a Fast Track Panel comprising of educational specialists, mental health professionals, and community partners, who collaboratively create individually tailored graduation requirements. This individualized approach ensures that every young person receives the specific support and resources necessary to navigate their unique challenges and experiences.
District Attorney Anita Howard intentionally designed the initiative not only to address youth who have encountered the criminal justice system but also to proactively engage youth who have not.
The initiative’s impressive growth showcases its success:
– 2022: 26 graduates
– 2023: 68 graduates
– 2024:122 graduates
Out of R.I.S.E.’s 2024 graduates, 14% were juvenile court referrals, nearly 31% were referred by victim advocates with the District Attorney’s Office, while 55% were community referrals.
This year’s graduating cohort consists of children from diverse age groups. Fifty-three graduates were from ages 7 to 12, while 15 children are under the age of 7.
In just 3 years, the number of participants and graduates of R.I.S.E. have quadrupled!
This remarkable increase not only highlights the effectiveness of R.I.S.E. but also reflects the community’s increasing recognition of its vital role in transforming young lives. By addressing trauma and offering positive outlets, R.I.S.E. serves as a cornerstone of District Attorney Anita Howard’s commitment to long-term public safety through youth empowerment.
Looking ahead to 2025, R.I.S.E. aims to broaden its reach, continuing its mission to inspire learning, nurture personal achievement, and instill hope in the youth of our community.
Community members interested in supporting this transformative work can become R.I.S.E. Ambassadors or refer children in need by contacting Jeremy Raines at 478-245-6926 or visiting www.maconjudicialcircuitda.com/rise2.
