As the new CEO of Rise Life Services, Jeanette Permenter, is looking forward to a new era for the Riverhead-based nonprofit organization.
“It’s all about expansion, growth and innovation and the people, and really focusing on the community connection,” says Permenter, who joined the organization five years ago as OPWDD Operations Director.
The organization now has 32 group homes, from Middle Island to Greenport, for people with developmental disabilities and mental illness. The organization maintains a strong commitment to person-centered care for individuals with OPWDD (Office for People with Developmental Disabilities) and behavioral health needs (OMH) within its homes.
“It’s important to remember that just as each of us has our own desires and goals, the people we support have those same rights,” Permenter says. “They should be able to express what they want for their own lives and pursue their personal goals, rather than having others decide what they should be working toward. Person-centered planning empowers individuals to define their own priorities, whether that means building relationships, living independently, securing a job, or even earning a driver’s license. It ensures their voice leads the process.”
In addition to its residential program, Rise continues to focus on and expand its Day Program Services. The organization just opened its sixth “Program Without Walls” in Port Jefferson, adding to the five other locations in Riverhead, Huntington, Patchogue, Brookhaven, and Mattituck.
“Our Program Without Walls gives our individuals the opportunity to use and build upon their current skill set within the community,” Permenter says.
Historically, many individuals served by OPWDD were placed in sheltered workshops or segregated day programs and some had limited access to inclusive community-based opportunities.
“Our Program Without Walls gives them the ability to go out into the community and be more involved,” Permenter says. “Whether they’re volunteering at a pet shelter, a soup kitchen, or helping out with media or some other activity, it’s about giving hope and independence to those individuals where it’s needed most.”
MEETING THE NEED: FEEDING THE HUNGRY
Working in partnership with Long Island Cares and Island Harvest, Rise continues to expand food deliveries beyond its food pantry in Riverhead and now serves about 300-350 households each month on Wednesdays at the pantry in Riverhead. On Thursday and Friday, it delivers food to 35 to 40 households.
“We’re actually moving across Long Island, especially on the East End, where we deliver to those who are unable to come to our food pantry, whether they have a disability or don’t have transportation,” Permenter says.
With the hard work of JoAnn Vitale, Director of Day and Community Services, and in conjunction with Riverhead Mazda and Car Club, Rise is currently in the middle of a holiday food drive to support the many families facing food insecurities.
SUICIDE PREVENTION IS KEY
Rise’s one-of-a-kind suicide prevention program, Rise Above Suicide, is ever expanding and reaches at- risk youth and young adults in Suffolk County.
“We just purchased a mobile vehicle where we can go out to the community and reach more young people who are struggling by providing mental health services, recreational activities, family support services, educational and vocational support, and wellness strategies to enhance their lives,” Permenter says.
Rise’s Suicide Prevention Program network consists of partnerships and relationships with New York State, Suffolk County, hospitals, clinics, school districts, and many other providers.
“This affords us the unique opportunity to connect people to appropriate and meaningful services and care, “Permenter says. “We’ll provide transportation. We’ll take them to their appointments.
We help them feel better about themselves in general. If they want to be part of a program they can’t necessarily afford, if they’re part of our Suicide Prevention Program, the program will help pay for it.”
RECOGNIZING TEAM EXCELLENCE
The organization is investing more in its staff, notes Permenter.
“Staff will work hard if they feel appreciated and part of the larger whole.,” Permenter says. “That is why we’re advocating for higher wages. The Direct Support Professionals and Residential Counselors are the backbone of the agency. They are essential staff because they provide the daily, person-centered support that empowers individuals in OPWDD and OMH programs to live safely, independently, and with dignity in their communities.”
This year, Rise Life Services had the privilege to acknowledge and honor three Schnepps Media Power List honorees, who were recognized and given awards at ceremonies held at Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury.
The first honoree was Daniel Dern, HR Recruiter in Human Resources.
“He is directly involved with recruiting the staff that are going to work with our individuals,” Permenter says. “He’s the first point of contact with anybody from the community regarding our agency and our individuals’ needs.”
Marie Graceson, Residential Manager, who works directly with Rise’s individuals in its Cross Rive IRA program, was the second honoree.
“She has managed one of our houses for 35 years,” Permenter says. “She was one of the original staff when this agency first opened and she’s still here. Our individuals become family, and this is a family for Marie.”
The last honoree this year was Paula Barbara, Training Coordinator.
“She is responsible for training the staff to work with our individuals, making sure they have all the tools necessary to be successful in their career here at Rise and being able to provide the highest quality of care to our individuals,” Permenter says.
NO LIMITS – FOR ANYBODY
Whether it’s through volunteering, donating or just spreading the word, every bit of support helps Rise reach more people, says Permenter.
Rise Life Services is about to begin its December Giving Campaign, which is essential to sustaining its mission of supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health needs, and those facing food insecurity. Community contributions make it possible to expand vital programs, strengthen residential and day services, provide life-enriching opportunities, and respond quickly to emerging needs. Every donation directly fuels independence, dignity, and stability for the people it serves. A strong campaign not only raises funds, but also inspires awareness, advocacy, and long-term community partnership, ensuring Rise Life Services can continue changing lives every day.
“Rise’s success is going to come from collaboration,” Permenter says. “Collaboration being focused on the same thing and having the same heart for everyone.”
Adds Permenter, “People often ask me what my passion in life is?” I honestly say my passion in life is empowering people who often don’t have a voice and those facing hardships. There’s no limit for anybody, regardless of your ability or your socioeconomic status. I want to be someone who lets people see that and leave that imprint on the world.”
Rise Life Services is located at 901 E. Main St., Riverhead, 631-727-6220; riselifeservices.org
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