RISEUP for Heroes
RISEUP for Heroes: Announcing Our Chicago Gala & Expanding Mission
By Krista Fee M.A.
Every day, our nation’s military and first responders step into battles most of us will never see. They run toward danger, hold the line in chaos, and carry burdens that would break most. Too often, when the crisis ends, they’re left to face the fallout alone.
At Battle2be Inc. and the RISEUP Phoenix Trauma and Crisis Institute, our mission is clear: meet critical needs where, when, and how they are needed most. This year, we are rising higher than ever—and we invite you to rise with us.
The RISEUP: Hope for Heroes Gala
We are proud to announce the RISEUP: Hope for Heroes Gala, taking place November 22nd at The Whale in Chicago.
This formal evening will feature fine dining, live music, award-winning keynote speakers, raffles, and both silent and online auctions. More than just a celebration, the Gala is a lifeline—fueling programs that save lives, restore hope, and honor those who have given everything.
Our Impact So Far
The numbers tell a powerful story:
More than 400 hours of free one-on-one coaching, consulting, and mentoring sessions provided annually to military and first responders.
Over 10,000 heroes and families served through peer support, training, retreats, and group programs.
14 suicide interventions this year alone, with lives redirected from despair to hope.
Launching a first-of-its-kind free online course, community, and coaching platform so confidential, culturally competent care is always at their fingertips.
Beyond the Check Box: Real-World Response
Unlike traditional “check the box” programs, our certified coaches, mentors, trainers, and wellness professionals deliver preparation, prevention, protection, resilience, response, and recovery in ways that are science-backed, trauma-competent, and absolutely confidential.
From immersive retreats and relationship programs, to critical incident teams ready to deploy with survival resources, evacuation assistance, investigative expertise, and on-site mental health support—we stand ready. And we always put humanity, flexibility, and integrity first.
The Ferryman Memorial Project
Our mission also extends to honoring those we’ve lost.
The Ferryman Memorial Project ensures that the light of service is not diminished by cause of death. Whether in the line of duty or to the silent war of suicide, every hero deserves to be remembered.
Our rolling memorial Jeep, Phoenix, carries the names of more than 600 fallen heroes. We’ve presented 130 plaques to families, attended over 50 remembrance events, and distributed over 5,000 Ripples Memorial Stones—small, nature-friendly tributes that ensure the ripples of a life live on forever. Some have even made their way to Ireland.
As the saying goes: “We die twice—once when breath leaves our body, and again the last time our name is spoken.”
We ensure our heroes live on forever.
Looking Ahead: Foundations Living Center
Our next project is the Foundations Long-Term Community Living Center, where responders can live with dignity, independence, and safety. With opportunities in service dog and horse training, woodworking, welding, auto mechanics, and more, this center will provide daily mental wellness and learning opportunities while restoring community and hope to those who have sacrificed so much.
Join Us in Chicago
The RISEUP: Hope for Heroes Gala is your chance to be part of something bigger.
Sponsor a program level and gain valuable visibility while showing your support for frontline heroes.
Purchase tickets for yourself—or gift a ticket to a responder.
Donate directly if you can’t attend.
Or simply like, share, and comment on our posts to help us break through algorithms and spread the word.
Every action matters. Together, we can show the world that here in the U.S., no one fights alone, no one gets left behind, and the ripples of every life live on forever.
#RiseUpForHeroes #Battle2be #RISEUPResponders #FirstResponderSupport #MilitarySupport #HopeForHeroes #ResponderWellness #FrontlineStrong #NeverForgotten #ChicagoEvents
