RiseUP Campaign exceeds $25 million goal to upgrade programs and campus

The RiseUP Campaign supports capital improvements and program operations to address critical community needs in mental health, housing, and autism education. Chaired by Villa Trustee, Jack Catlett, it was the largest fundraising campaign undertaken by the Villa since its founding in 1834.

The focal point of the campaign, a $9.5 million renovation of the Villa’s historic school into a state-of-the-art Center for Autism, will begin welcoming students and community partners this year. In addition, the campaign supported campus-wide upgrades in accessibility, energy efficiency, and technology, along with a new fitness playground designed for older youth.

“This momentous achievement would not have been possible without the generous support of our community, who believes in our families and shares in our vision of service. More than half of the 300+ donors who made a gift to the new school are new supporters of the Villa,” said CEO, Kathleen Burke Barrett. “The results of this campaign will shape the lives of our region’s most vulnerable children for years to come, and prepare them for futures of greater independence and opportunity.”

The newly renovated 24,000 sq. ft. building is customized to meet the unique needs of students with autism, and includes a sensory library, health suite, dedicated space for learning independent living skills, and observation areas for parents, trainees, and research partners. It also contains the new Campus Center, which will provide flexible space to host Villa program-related trainings, conferences, and events. The dedication of the building will be announced in the coming months.

The RiseUP Campaign raised a total of $30,678,000. Visit www.SJVRiseUP.org for more information.

On the north end of campus, the Youth Fitness Park offers new opportunities for students to be active and socialize with their peers.