Our Programs
Youth Development · Arts & Expression · Community Engagement · Animal Welfare
At Ember Rising, our programs are designed to support young people, strengthen community connection, and nurture compassion through creative, educational, and service-based experiences. From personal growth and life skills to artistic expression and animal care, our programs help youth and community members build confidence, resilience, and purpose.

NOVA — New Outlooks & Visions Academy
Youth Wellness and Life Skills Development
NOVA is Ember Rising’s holistic youth development program for ages 12–18. Through quarterly gatherings, NOVA blends emotional wellness, mindfulness, creative exploration, and community connection to equip young people with the skills and confidence they need to thrive. Activities include guided reflection, group collaboration, experiential learning, and personal growth workshops.
Program Highlights

• Mindfulness and emotional resilience

• Life skills and self-awareness

• Collaborative community activities

• Growth-focused workshops
   

Ursa’s Echo Dancing Collaborative
Collaborative Dance, Mentorship, and Creative Expression
Ursa’s Echo brings youth and artists together to explore movement, storytelling, and performance through dance. This program emphasizes creative collaboration, peer mentorship, and community performance opportunities. Participants of all experience levels build confidence, connection, and artistic voice in an inclusive, supportive environment.
Program Highlights

• Dance and choreography development

• Intergenerational artistic collaboration

• Leadership and mentorship pathways

• Public performances and showcases
   

Twila Animal Sanctuary
Animal Rescue, Foster Support, and Community Care
Twila is Ember Rising’s animal rescue and foster support initiative, connecting youth and community volunteers with compassionate animal care. The program provides crisis response, foster education, and hands-on opportunities that teach empathy, responsibility, and ethical stewardship. Twila bridges animal welfare and community engagement to create lasting impact for both animals and people.
Program Highlights

• Animal crisis response and rescue support

• Foster care coordination and resources

• Volunteer engagement and service learning

Compassion-based education and advocacy

SPARK

Community Service, Humanitarian Outreach, and Real-World Skill Application
 

SPARK is Ember Rising’s community service and outreach initiative, connecting youth, young adults, and community members with meaningful opportunities to serve. The program functions as both a flexible entry point and a full-circle experience for participants who have completed NOVA, Ursa’s Echo, and Twila—allowing them to apply life skills, creative collaboration, and compassionate service in real-world humanitarian efforts, disaster response, and community partnerships. SPARK bridges learning and action, transforming skill-building into lasting community impact.
 

Program Highlights

• Community service and humanitarian outreach

• Partnerships with local organizations and disaster relief efforts

• Real-world application of life skills and leadership development

• Volunteer engagement and community-based service learning
  
   

Why Our Programs Matter
Building Skills, Community, and Compassion
Ember Rising programs are rooted in the belief that holistic support helps young people and community members thrive. By focusing on personal development, artistic expression, community service, and compassionate care, we help individuals build resilience, confidence, and connection. Each program contributes to stronger communities grounded in empathy, creativity, and shared purpose.
Key Outcomes

• Enhanced leadership and self-confidence

• Increased emotional wellness and resilience

• Stronger community engagement and collaboration

• Expanded opportunities for learning and service
   

Get Involved
Participate, Partner, Support
You can be part of Ember Rising’s mission through participation, partnership, volunteer service, or support. Whether you’re a parent, educator, mentor, artist, animal lover, or community advocate, there are meaningful ways to contribute. Your involvement fuels programs that empower youth and strengthen community well-being.

Ways to Get Involved

• Join as a participant

• Volunteer with a program

• Partner with Ember Rising

• Support through donation and advocacy