RIZE was created in 2017 with an ambitious mission to end opioid overdose. Guided by those with lived experience and unafraid of new ideas, RIZE invests in community partners who are using novel approaches to prevent overdose and treat addiction, serves as a neutral convenor and network-builder, and funds research that builds the evidence base. Learn how our work has improved the quality of life for people living with substance use disorder.
The number of overdose deaths nationally in 2021, the deadliest year on record
The number of people who die every day in Massachusetts from overdose
Our Areas of Impact
Ending the overdose crisis requires a comprehensive and flexible approach. No one policy or program alone is sufficient to address the magnitude of the crisis. We organize our work into three focus areas:
Investing in Community
Generating Knowledge
Convening for Action
The latest from RIZE
HaRT Scholars Program
The Harm Reduction Training (HaRT) Scholars program provides paid internships for graduate level social work students from Boston College, Bridgewater State University, and Simmons University at harm reduction organizations. This broadens their understanding and knowledge to better prepare them to serve individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD).
Statement from Julie Burns, President & CEO of RIZE Massachusetts
BOSTON – RIZE Massachusetts, an independent nonprofit foundation working to end the opioid epidemic in Massachusetts, is deeply saddened by the latest state data on opioid-related deaths.
Learning Community: Harm Reduction. Housing. Hope.
On December 14, 2021, RIZE Massachusetts Foundation, together with the National Harm Reduction Coalition and the Kraft Center for Community Health at MGH hosted a Learning Community: Harm Reduction. Housing. Hope.
Support Our Work
Contributing to RIZE’s growing fund that is dedicated to ending overdose amplifies the power and reach of your donation many times over, helping thousands of people and families across Massachusetts.