The Exchange Club of Springfield, Ohio welcomed Deb McCullough of On-The-Rise Tuesday July 16, 2019 at its regularly scheduled 7:00 AM membership meeting at Collier’s Family Restaurant. President Tuttle presented a $1,000 Foundation donation.
In the 1990’s Debbie McCullough and Cathy Tofstad kindled a passion for their desire to make a difference in the lives of the children in their community. In 2002 this passion led to the creation of the nonprofit organization On-The-Rise.
Since 2002, On-The-Rise has served at risk youth throughout Clark County, who have displayed deficiencies in life and social skills, have had academic difficulties, and have displayed behavioral issues. The multi-sensory programs offered at On-The-Rise facilitate extended learning opportunities allowing youth to gain life skills, social skills, and employment skills with the collaboration of many of Springfield’s resources. These programs promote responsibility, compassion, work ethic, and positive self image; but most of all, they give students a chance to succeed.
On-The-Rise is the oldest vendor at the Springfield Farmers Market. Working with the farmers market allows students to learn employment and social skills off the farm. Once a student has made enough progress at the farm with their social skills and behavior they are encouraged to gain real world experience by working at the farmers market. Students learn how to make change correctly, gain customer service skills, and engage in the community while they continue to develop in their areas of struggle. Students must attend the farmers market on time and be able to answer questions about the products.