2026 SESSION

ENROLLED

SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 58

Commending RISE for Youth.

Agreed to by the Senate, January 29, 2026

Agreed to by the House of Delegates, February 2, 2026

WHEREAS, RISE for Youth, an independent organization founded in 2018, is committed to ensuring every space that impacts a young person's life encourages growth and success, while promoting the creation of healthy communities and community-based alternatives to youth incarceration; and

WHEREAS, the work of RISE for Youth centers youth and their communities to challenge and dismantle racial and social injustice while reflecting a commitment to transformative justice by outlining interconnected strategies and outcomes necessary to create lasting change; and

WHEREAS, RISE for Youth's theory of change is grounded in community input and driven by the voices of impacted youth and families, underscoring the critical link between comprehensive youth support systems, policy advocacy, and equitable opportunities; and

WHEREAS, as a leading voice for youth justice in the Commonwealth, RISE for Youth leverages its position to create opportunities for the fuller engagement of youth and families at every decision-making juncture in its effort to transform the legal system; and

WHEREAS, RISE for Youth, through its multifaceted work and vital programs, including legislative and direct advocacy, the Youth Leader Advocacy Network, and the Youth Development Academy, has positively impacted the lives of countless youth, families, and communities across the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, RISE for Youth has given youth and families opportunities to use their voices for change, diverting youth away from the legal system, creating pipelines for youth to become strong advocates and community leaders, and providing training, mentorship, and leadership development; and

WHEREAS, by integrating these components, RISE for Youth walks alongside youth and communities in the fight to replace punitive systems with restorative accountability where every young person has access to nurturing environments that prioritize personal growth, community safety, and youth empowerment; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate, the House of Delegates concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend RISE for Youth for its visionary and unwavering leadership in transforming youth justice in the Commonwealth; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to RISE for Youth as an expression of the General Assembly's admiration for the organization's dedication to building a future where all young people can thrive.