Regional Independent Students Association - RISA

10/13/2026

It is with profound sadness that Regional Independent Students Association announces the passing of our founder, Charles J. Dolan.

In 1993, Charles establish RISA with a vision of providing vulnerable youth with a safe, supportive environment where they could continue their education, develop essential life skills, and build a brighter future.

For more than three decades, his vision has helped shape the lives of countless young people who have walked through the doors of Brockwell House and Edwards House. What began as a commitment to helping youth overcome barriers has grown into a lasting legacy of compassion, opportunity, and hope.

Charles's contributions extend far beyond the establishment of an organization. Through RISA, generations of young people have been given opportunities to succeed, discover their potential, and take meaningful steps toward independence. His dedication to ensuring that youth have the support and encouragement they deserve will continue to make a difference for years to come.

As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the remarkable legacy he leaves behind. RISA remains committed to carrying forward the vision upon which our organization was founded and continuing the work that meant so much to him.

Our deepest condolences goes out to Charles's family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

As noted in Charles's obituary, those wishing to make a donation in his memory are encouraged to support a charity of their choice.

For those who choose RISA as their charity of choice, donations can be made through our website https://risayouth.org/donations/

We are grateful to everyone who chooses to honour Charles's memory, whether through a donation, sharing a memory, or simply reflecting on the lasting impact he has made in our community.

Thank you, Charles, for the foundation you built, the lives you touched, and the legacy you leave behind. Your impact will never be forgotten.

Regional Independent Students Association (RISA)

View Charles James Dolan's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/30/2025

🧡 National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 🧡

Today, we honour the survivors of residential schools, their families, and the children who never made it home. We recognize the ongoing impact of these injustices, and the strength of Indigenous communities across Turtle Island.

We encourage everyone to take time today to reflect, and learn more about the history of residential schools.

09/10/2025

September is Su***de Prevention Month. Every life matters, and no one should face their struggles alone. Let’s break the silence, offer support, and spread hope together. 💛

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available 24/7:
• Su***de Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988
• NS Mental Health & Addictions Crisis Line: 1-888-429-8167
• Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868

08/22/2024

Thank you to everyone who purchased tickets for our gift card raffle fundraiser! Thanks to your support we were able to raise $1,400. The winner of our raffle is Ella Donovan. Congratulations!

Send a message to learn more

08/12/2024

✨GIFT CARD RAFFLE✨

Interested in winning some amazing gift cards?!

Regional Independent Students' Association is holding a gift card raffle fundraiser in support of Edwards and Brockwell House. One lucky winner will receive over $1000 in gift cards to local restaurants, breweries, cafés, and more!

Tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20. To purchase, call (902) 466-4681 or email [email protected]. Tickets will also be sold at the Alderney Landing Market this Saturday, August 17th from 8am-1pm, and the draw will occur after that. Make sure to get your tickets before the 17th!

Prizes:
- The Wooden Monkey - $50 gift card
- HFX Wanderers Football Club - Voucher for 2 tickets (retail $75)
- Walmart - $100 gift card
- North Brewing Company - $25 gift card
- Good Robot Brewing Company - $100 gift card
- Two If By Sea Cafe - $25 gift card
- Sobeys - $100 gift card
- Anchored Coffee - $25 gift card
- Chain Yard Urban Cidery Taproom - $30 gift card
- Atlantic Superstore - $100 gift card
- Grape Escapes W**e Tours - $150 gift card
- Sou’Wester Gift and Restaurant Company - $25 gift card
- Seven Bays Bouldering - 2 one-week membership passes ($80 retail)
- Morris East Restaurant - $50 gift card
- Compass Distillery - Tasting and Tour for 6 people ($150 retail)

07/16/2024

🌟HYGIENE DRIVE🌟

This July and August, the Regional Independent Students' Association is hosting a hygiene drive for our two youth residences. RISA is a nonprofit organization that provides supportive housing for at-risk youth. We currently operate two student residences in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia; Edwards House and Brockwell House. By providing youths with a safe place to call home, trained staff, and support to develop essential life skills, we help our residents to focus on their education and plan for their future.

We are currently seeking donations in the form of gift cards and hygiene products. Any and all donations are greatly appreciated and will help us to continue supporting ! See the poster below for information on how to donate.

12/22/2023

We want to thank everyone who took the time to help bring Christmas joy to the boys and girls living at Edwards and Brockwell House. To those who have donated to us each year, we thank you for your continued support. For those who are new to us, we look forward to building a brighter future with you.

All your generosity helps to put the Merry in Merry Christmas for the youth that live with us. The joy and excitement we get to see during the holiday season reminds all of us what Christmas is all about.

11/28/2023

Considering a donation this holiday Season? Take a look at our current needs to help us spread Christmas joy to the youth we serve!

06/21/2023

We would like to thank everyone who bought WestJet raffle tickets. We really appreciate all your support.

The winner of this years voucher is Nancy McLauchlan. Congratulations!!

06/20/2023

Last day to get your tickets!