Residential Youth Services and Empowerment

Residential Youth Services & Empowerment (RYSE) is a nonprofit organization in Kailua, Oahu, dedicated to helping Hawaii’s youth move beyond homelessness and achieve stability, independence, and hope. RYSE operates a comprehensive continuum of services for young people ages 14–24, offering safe shelter, education, employment guidance, and access to behavioral health resources. Their mission is rooted in the belief that every youth deserves a chance to thrive, and their vision is a Hawaii free from youth homelessness.

At the heart of RYSE’s work is its Access Center at Kawailoa, open daily from 8am to 8pm, where youth can receive hot meals, showers, laundry facilities, hygiene supplies, WiFi, and compassionate support. The organization also provides one emergency shelter and seven housing programs for young adults, helping them transition from the streets to long-term stability. RYSE’s medical and behavioral health services address both physical and emotional well-being, offering mental health counseling and courses that promote resilience, emotional regulation, and self-awareness—key elements for managing stress, anger, and trauma in healthy ways.

RYSE further supports young people through education and employment programs, including GED preparation, job readiness, financial literacy, and driver’s license assistance. A 24/7 mobile outreach team brings help directly to youth in crisis, ensuring that no call for help goes unanswered. Beyond services, RYSE advocates for equity, inclusivity, and second chances, actively hiring and empowering individuals with lived experiences in foster care, homelessness, or the justice system. Through compassion, connection, and community support, RYSE helps youth build a brighter, more stable future.