COVID-19 Response
RYSE continues to monitor the status and spread of COVID-19. We are monitoring the ever-changing information from the CDC, WHO, CDPH, and local agencies alongside continued inquiry with our members, families, and partners.
When early reports of COVID-19’s impacts began to circulate, all RYSE staff created virtual business continuity plans and on March 13, 2020 we closed our physical space: a few days prior to California’s Shelter in Place mandate. All of RYSE programs and work shifted quickly to a virtual space, and we were forced to pivot again to create our relationship-centered approach and model in a virtual world. RYSE staff are practiced in trauma-informed care, and the COVID-19 pandemic means they have become more engaged in one-to-one case management. Our meeting formats shifted to triage and coordination with clinical staff, as staff rapidly transitioned to online platforms and engaged in online safety training.
For the Fall 2021 season, staff returned to in-person work in the ever-evolving RYSE Commons campus with a thorough set of COVID protocols, including 100% staff vaccination. Not yet open to drop-ins, RYSE started a closed programming format: signing up youth for programs in advance and scheduling in a manner that avoids clusters and ensures physical distance. We will continue this structure for the Spring 2022 program season until our Grand Opening on May 14th, wherein RYSE will be operating at full capacity and open for drop-ins. Follow us on social media to stay up-to-date on upcoming programs and events.
The Grand Opening of RYSE Commons is scheduled for May 14th and Be a Kid on May 20th.
All COVID protocols will be in place and are liable to adjust according to the latest developments.
We appreciate your understanding and commitment to affirming that we are worth taking care of ourselves and each other, and that our worth is more than our work.
In prioritizing ALL our health and humanity, the following measures are in effect:
RYSE is currently NOT open for daily member or visitor drop-ins. Only members who are part of program cohorts and have completed our new member checklist are able to come in for structured programming. Programs are offered in-person with the option to join virtually. We will announce when we will reopen for all members and visitors.
All members attending programs or visitors with a scheduled meeting or tour must:
Have a scheduled program, meeting or tour
Wear a mask at all times, unless you are eating or drinking.
Complete a COVID Health Screen prior to or upon arrival
IMPORTANT: If you, someone in your household or someone you have come in contact with has tested positive for COVID-19 or have COVID-19 related symptoms, we ask that you do not come to RYSE.
If you would like to learn more about our programs or sign up to become a RYSE member contact us at info@rysecenter.org, 510-255-1940 or send us a direct message on Instagram at @ryseyouthcenter.
We continue to coordinate emergency supports and mutual aid for our members & staff. For urgent issues, contact Kanwarpal Dhaliwal, Associate Director, at kanwarpal@rysecenter.org or 510-579-1922, and/or Kimberly Aceves-Iniguez, Executive Director, at kimberly@rysecenter.org or 510-206-5552.
We know that in times of crisis and pandemic, our communities face increased burdens of economic hardship, compounded distress, and too often stigma and blame. Pandemics reveal and increase inequity. Pandemics also reveal and insist on beloved community. Let’s build our sacred connections in times of social distancing. Let’s be beloved.