Each year, we highlight the accomplishments of people we support through our Rise’ing Star Awards. Nominees are recognized for their extraordinary attitude, achievements, and perseverance at work, home, and in their communities. Five people were honored at this year’s Road to Possibilities Fundraising Gala, held on October 29.

Meet our 2026 Rise’ing Stars:

Andrew Japs

Andrew Japs is known for his strong work ethic, positive attitude, and determination to succeed. No matter the goal, Andrew approaches it with focus and persistence, continually pushing himself to improve. When challenged to increase his work speed, he embraced the feedback and quickly made significant progress, building his skills and independence on the job.

Andrew works at Brooklyn Tool (BTI), where he has become a valued member of the team. After his previous work site closed and other employment opportunities were complicated by health concerns, Andrew remained focused on his goal of working. His resilience and commitment helped him successfully transition to a new role, where he continues to thrive. Andrew’s perseverance, adaptability, and dedication make him a shining example of determination in action.

Lorraine Luciana

Lorraine Luciana has demonstrated remarkable determination, resilience, and growth as she works toward greater independence. Over the past several years, she has built skills and confidence through Rise services, and today continues to receive support through Rise Employment and Housing Services. Lorraine is committed to achieving her goals, balancing the responsibilities of employment, managing her finances, and navigating everyday challenges with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.

For the past nine months, Lorraine has worked as a Cart Attendant at Walmart in Pine City, Minnesota, marking her first long-term employment opportunity. She has earned recognition for her dedication and strong work ethic, receiving two awards for her job performance. Through hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to personal growth, Lorraine continues to build a bright future and serves as an inspiring example of what is possible when determination meets opportunity.

Cole Nelson

Cole Nelson has shown tremendous growth, determination, and willingness to embrace new opportunities as he works toward an independent future. When he first began exploring employment, Cole had a narrow vision of the types of jobs he wanted to pursue. Through work experiences, job exploration, and a commitment to trying new things, he expanded his horizons, gained valuable skills, and discovered strengths he didn’t know he had.

Today, Cole balances multiple jobs while continuing to plan for his future. He recently accepted a full-time position at Lupient Kia in Brooklyn Park while also continuing to work part-time at Kwik Trip in Ham Lake. Along the way, he has developed strong workplace skills, increased his independence, and demonstrated professionalism well beyond his years. Cole’s next goals include earning his driver’s license and eventually living on his own. His journey is a powerful example of how persistence, adaptability, and an open mind can lead to remarkable success.

Andrew Newstrom

Andrew Newstrom spent years holding onto a dream that many people might have given up on. Despite experiencing a stroke that left his right side nearly immobile, Andrew never stopped believing he could find meaningful employment and contribute in the workplace. He remained focused on his goal, determined to prove that his abilities and ambitions were greater than the barriers in front of him.

When Andrew connected with Rise, he made his goal clear: he wanted to work at Pizza Ranch. That vision quickly became reality. A tour led to an application, an interview, and a job offer. Today, Andrew works at Pizza Ranch in Andover, where he has found the opportunity he had been seeking for so long. His journey is a powerful reminder that sometimes success begins when someone is willing to listen, open a door, and believe in a person’s potential. Along with his new job, Andrew recently achieved another personal milestone by adopting his cat, Lenny, and continues building the independent, fulfilling life he envisioned for himself.

Gregory Oliver

Gregory Oliver has shown extraordinary determination as he works toward a future defined by independence, purpose, and opportunity. Over the past year, Greg has embraced new challenges, achieved important milestones, and remained committed to his goals despite obstacles that might have discouraged others. His positive outlook, persistence, and willingness to keep moving forward have been key to his success.

Today, Greg works at Target Field in Minneapolis through Delaware North, often beginning his day before sunrise. Alongside his employment, he has learned to navigate the public transportation system, moved into his own apartment for the first time, and continues building the skills needed to live independently. Greg’s journey is a powerful example of resilience, personal growth, and the impact of believing in new possibilities.