Storytelling isn't just about remembering the past—it's about making sense of our experiences, strengthening relationships, and finding joy in self-expression. That's the heart of the R.Y.S.E. (Record Your Story Everywhere) Project, a unique initiative created by Supervising Prevention Consultant, Ometa T. Pope, as part of NJ4S Burlington County.

Through memory-keeping and crafting, R.Y.S.E. has provided a creative and therapeutic outlet for participants of all ages. At locations like the Department of Children & Families Project Teach Burlington Campus, the Family Success Center of Burlington County, and the Moorestown Library, attendees have explored themes such as "My Firsts," "Overcoming Challenges," and "Gratitude." Special events like Grandparents Day and Holiday Card Making have brought families closer together, fostering intergenerational connections and strengthening bonds through shared storytelling.

These activities have a profound impact on mental health and emotional well-being. Studies show that creative expression—whether through scrapbooking, journaling, or crafting—can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance self-awareness. By reflecting on personal journeys and celebrating small victories, participants build resilience and a deeper sense of gratitude. The act of storytelling also promotes social connection, offering a supportive space where individuals feel heard, valued, and understood.

Now, R.Y.S.E. is expanding its reach! A new monthly scrapbooking and card-making series will offer even more opportunities for self-expression and relationship-building. These interactive workshops will integrate journaling techniques and new artistic methods, empowering participants to express themselves while strengthening their connections with others.

Each page tells a story, and every story deserves to be remembered. Whether reflecting on life's milestones, processing challenges, or simply creating for joy, R.Y.S.E. continues to inspire our community—one memory at a time.