$450,000 grant award to support the creation of RISE Center supporting youth and community members in Winona

Family & Children’s Center (FCC) is thrilled to announce the organization was awarded a $450,000 grant to support the creation of the Resilience, Independence, Support, Engagement (RISE) Center in Winona, MN. The center, to be located in FCC’s existing 601 Franklin Street offices in Winona, will provide space and new opportunities for youth and community members to learn new skills and foster positive habits in a safe, supportive environment surrounded by caring and experienced FCC employees.

At the RISE Center, FCC staff will have an additional space to support at-risk children and youth through after-school and summer enrichment activities.

“By creating a center where individuals can attend, learn new skills, and connect with therapists, counselors, and mentors, FCC will continue to strengthen its mission in Winona County to promote individual well-being,” said Karrie Hahn, FCC’s Director of Programs, MN.

As a new program, many of the evaluation instruments will be developed by the program director but will include many of FCC’s existing program’s methods and tools.

Through experience with the organization’s existing programs in Winona, FCC has data that truancy rates in Winona are increasing.

“At-risk youth in Winona need a place to learn, grow, socialize, and participate in opportunities to enrich their lives and discourage them from unhealthy and unlawful activities,” said Kahn. “This need has been determined through FCC’s experience, collaborations, and current programs to support children and families.”

FCC has had a presence in Winona County for 25 years. It is because of this long history in the community that FCC is well-positioned to understand the culture and diversity that comes along with serving Winona County and surrounding communities.

“I am so pleased Family & Children’s Center received this grant which will be used to fill a big gap in how we serve Winona-area youth,” said Nancy Brown, Winona Community Foundation President/CEO. “Time and again I hear there are not enough options for young people who need a supportive, reliable environment once the school day ends. I hope the community rallies around FCC and the RISE Center.”

The two-year grant comes as part of the $31.8M 2024 Community Crime Intervention and Prevention Program from Minnesota’s Office of Justice Programs.

“This important addition shows FCC’s continuing commitment to Winona, as well as all those we serve,” said Stephani Klumpp, Director of Advancement & Marketing for FCC.