By walking along side people on their journey to mental wellness, Chris has been inspired by the positive effects of exercise, mindfulness and meditation, nutrition, spirituality, being in nature, and other holistic activities in helping people to find their true goodness and inner peace.  Chris has a strong desire to help people find meaningful and healthy ways to support them on their path to wholeness.  Chris is a certified Spiritual Director, Mindfulness and Meditation teacher, Retreat Leader and avid lover of the outdoors.

It is an honor to serve on the board for Rise Up Together! There are many roles to participate in that are needed in an aware world. Working with mental health in a holistic environment is a much-welcomed service. I have worked in and with several boards in the non-for-profit world as well as owning my own business for 35 years. I look forward to working with Rise Up Together! and participating in it’s growth in serving the mental health community for many years.

Thea is a dynamic and accomplished individual with over 25 years of experience as a fitness instructor. Her journey in fitness is not just a career but a lifelong passion that has shaped her personal and professional endeavors. Beyond her professional achievements, Thea has a deep commitment to working with individuals in the recovery phase of their mental illness. Thea’s understanding of the power of movement, wellness, and health education in mental health recovery is deeply personal–her own daughter’s journey has been her greatest inspiration and driving force.

Kim is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (in Illinois), and has been in private practice for 30 years. She specializes in trauma recovery, post traumatic stress disorder, women’s issues, and depression and anxiety. With an eclectic approach, Kim encourages holistic therapies to bring healing to her clients. Kim has been training Life Coaches on being Trauma Informed, and has spoken to a variety of teen and women’s groups. Kim is also a certified Professional Tennis Instructor (PPR) and a Professional Pickleball Instructor (PPR), and enjoys teaching and playing. Kim’s golden retriever, Hank, keeps her busy in her free time.

I believe that adjuvant therapies to support and enhance mental health recovery are paramount in today’s world. I’m passionate about the mission of Rise Up Together to help clients find the right fit for them and provide assistance with costs if needed. I’m a retired registered dietitian with 25 years experience in teaching and counseling. I also have had success in grant writing, procuring funds for nutrition education programs for families. I’m a mom and a grandma, and I love spending time with our grandkids. I also love being in the outdoors, with gardening and hiking as my favorite out door activities.

With over 45 years of experience in the financial planning industry, Don has dedicated his career to helping clients achieve stability and peace of mind for their financial future. Known for his diligent work ethic and commitment to excellence, he has guided countless individuals and families through the complexities of the financial world. Beyond his professional achievements, Don is a generous contributor to charities that hold special significance for him. Don is an active part of the Rise Up Together organization, working alongside others to uplift and empower those living with mental illness.

Anne has worked as an OT with children in schools for over 20 years. Neurodivergent students, especially those with autism have become her favorite children to support. Her side interests include gardening and yoga, which feed her physically and emotionally. The opportunity to support others in finding the holistic approaches which serve them best has drawn her to serve on Rise Up’s board.

Al is an experienced business development professional with a background in technical solutions for the appliance, automotive, and telecommunications industries. In his current role, he leads a sales team focused on providing tailored heat solutions for manufacturing companies. He is a lifelong learner with an open mind and a desire to understand how things are accomplished from the cultures of the world and learning from the youth as they take on the challenges of the world .Outside of work, he loves baseball and values time with family, believing that strong family connections are essential to a fulfilling life. Being part of Rise Up’s board provides an opportunity to continue to learn and be helpful in the world.