OUR Vision
The Rising Foundation believes in “Unlocking Your Potential”. We apply this to every young adult and we have seen first-hand how a sustained programme of intervention, prevention and support works. The Dream is to take The Rising nationwide in consultation with schools and communities in areas where there is an identified need.
The programme will be adapted to suit the specific needs of each community, under the stewardship of John Bongard, Rising Foundation Board of Trustees and General Manager Alex Tarrant, who have a clear vision of what it will take to succeed.
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The Foundation plans to train people to implement the programme and over time, unlock and direct the incredible potential in all New Zealand youth, regardless of the challenges they face.
te pou e wha
The poka in the pounamu represent our Four Pillars: Insight, Synergy, Integrity and Creativity which encapsulate the unique essence of
the Rising Foundation
OUR history
Co founded by John and Diane Bongard, the programme began in 2009 with a group of 20 young people based in Papakura High School. In 2009 Social Worker Eli Tulafono launched Te Roopu Kakano (TRK), a pilot group of 20 students at Papakura High School supported by Matua Abe Warren and Matua Maurice Tarei.