About Us

Our Mission


At Connect 2 Rise Inc., our story is one of compassion, dedication, and a deep commitment to addressing the global mental health crisis by combatting loneliness and isolation across all generations. Our mission is to create safe, empathetic spaces, offer one-to-one support, facilitate social groups, and organize impactful events that build essential support networks and resources. Amid the ever-growing mental health challenges worldwide, we strive to foster meaningful connections where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued, allowing them to thrive and not merely survive. We believe that everyone deserves to feel connected, valued, and included, no matter their age, background, or circumstance.

The Inspiration
The inspiration behind Connect 2 Rise came from Veronica Fields, who saw firsthand the increasing trend of social isolation. Initially, she opened a small coworking space, hopeful that people would seek out in-person interactions post-Covid. However, despite the decrease in remote work trends, real-life social connections continued to decline across various sectors, from churches and school PTAs to volunteerism and workplace communities.

A New Beginning
Determined to change this reality, Veronica invested all her savings in her dream business and began hosting networking events. She discovered a growing number of individuals yearning for genuine connections. Each event left her wishing she could do more to help people build relationships and remove the cost barrier of connecting. Driven by her passion for positive change, she closed her business and launched Connect 2 Rise Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to combating social isolation and loneliness.

Our Commitment
Understanding the profound impact of loneliness on mental, emotional, and physical well-being, Veronica committed herself to making a difference, one meaningful connection at a time. With the support of like-minded women dedicated to community-building, Connect 2 Rise Inc. was born.

How We Do It
Through our one-on-one support, neighborhood-based networks, intergenerational exchange programs, virtual community platforms, and peer support networks, Connect 2 Rise offers a variety of opportunities for individuals to connect with others, share experiences, and build meaningful relationships.

Together, We Rise
We believe that by coming together, we can break down barriers, foster empathy, and create a more inclusive and compassionate society. Thank you for joining us on this journey to change the way the world talks and thinks about loneliness.

Join Us
Together, let's rise above isolation and build a community where everyone feels connected and supported. Welcome to Connect 2 Rise.

Why are we tackling loneliness and social isolation now?

01
Loneliness Does Not Discriminate
Loneliness and isolation are part of a growing epidemic, affecting everyone from teens to the elderly across all social classes. With families spread out across the globe and our fast-paced world prioritizing social media over real friendships and family ties, genuine family time has been replaced by facetime.
02
Mental Health Impacts Have Real Health Consequences
Loneliness and poor mental health impact both emotional and physical well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, chronic health issues, a weakened immune system, and reduced life expectancy.
03
Social Media Impacts on Mental Health
Social media often increases our isolation and loneliness. Constant comparisons and superficial interactions lead to intense feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, and depression, highlighting the urgent need for genuine, meaningful connections.
04
The Hidden Toll: How Toxic Relationships and Isolation Harm Mental Health
Generational trauma, toxic family dynamics, a challenging dating pool, and lack of community severely impact mental health, causing rejection, low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety. Untreated, these issues worsen physical health and quality of life, increasing the risk of substance abuse, self-harm, and suicide.

Mission Statement


Connect 2 Rise Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to combatting the global mental health crisis by addressing loneliness and isolation across all generations through safe spaces, support networks, and community-building initiatives.

Vision Statement

To create a compassionate world where no one feels isolated, and everyone thrives emotionally and mentally, not merely survives.

Meet Our Growing Team

Veronica Fields

CEO/Founder

Victoria Williams

Vice President/Board Member

Ramona Canakie

Treasurer/Board Member

Our strategic objectives for 2024-2026 are listed below as we aim to become a global leader in field:

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Create Community Spaces and Events

- Develop inclusive community spaces, such as cafes, libraries, or pop-up gathering spots, where people can come together for socializing, shared activities, and mutual support.

- Organize regular events, festivals, and themed gatherings that celebrate diversity, foster connections, and create a sense of belonging for all members of the community.
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Build Peer Support Networks

Establish peer support networks or buddy systems where individuals experiencing loneliness or social isolation can connect with others who share similar experiences and provide mutual encouragement, companionship, and understanding.

Train volunteers or peer mentors to facilitate support groups, one-on-one meetings, or online forums where participants can share their stories, offer advice, and receive emotional support.
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Intergenerational Connection Initiatives

Develop programs that facilitate meaningful interactions between different age groups, such as intergenerational mentorship programs, shared learning experiences, and collaborative projects.

Establish partnerships with schools, community centers, and retirement homes to create opportunities for intergenerational connections through activities like storytelling sessions, workshops, and projects.
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Community Engagement Campaigns

Launch public awareness campaigns to destigmatize loneliness and raise awareness about the importance of social connections for overall well-being.

Collaborate with local influencers, celebrities, and community leaders to spread messages of empathy, inclusion, and support through social media, public events, and community outreach efforts.
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Virtual Community Building

Launch a virtual community platform that provides opportunities for individuals to connect with others who share similar interests, hobbies, or life experiences.

Offer virtual support groups, discussion forums, and interactive events to facilitate meaningful connections and provide emotional support to those who may have limited mobility or access to in-person interactions.
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Volunteer Mobilization and Civic Engagement

Mobilize volunteers to serve as social connectors, community ambassadors, or event organizers who actively reach out to individuals experiencing loneliness and invite them to participate in community activities.

Engage residents in community-building initiatives, such as neighborhood clean-up projects, community gardens, or local advocacy campaigns, to foster a sense of ownership, pride, and social connectedness.
Let's help each other
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Let's help each other
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Let's help each other
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Let's help each other
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Let's help each other
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Let's help each other
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Let's help each other
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Let's help each other
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“A season of loneliness and isolation is when the caterpillar gets its wings. Remember that next time you feel alone.”

— Mandy Hale

“There’s nothing abnormal about loneliness.”

Paula Stokes
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"Remember: you're not alone, we're all in this together."

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