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Camp Atwater since 1921
Dear RIISE Community,
 
February always asks us to hold many things at once.
 
In this season of Black History Month, we honor legacy while also guiding our children through very present moments — admission decisions arriving, plans for summer taking shape, and the ongoing work of making sure our scholars feel seen, known, grounded, and whole within their school communities.
 
At RIISE, we often say these moments matter because they shape identity, not just opportunity. If your family is opening an acceptance, navigating a waitlist, or processing a “no,” you’re not alone. We’ve shared reflections in the past on how families can make sense of decisions with clarity and care. Read: Admissible vs. Admitted
 
And as summer approaches, many families are also thinking about belonging beyond the school year. My own summers at Camp Minisink were among the few places where I didn’t have to explain myself before joining in, where friendships formed quickly because we were starting from shared experience. The same can be said for time spent on Martha's Vineyard -Save the Date: RIISE MV August 18.

 
Which brings us to this year’s Brown Butter Collective 2026 - The Pajama Party! Reflection · Relaxation · Restoration
 
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Each year, we listen carefully to our girls.
And one thing they told us clearly:
We love being together.
We just want more time to be.
So this year, we’re slowing down.
Instead of moving scholars from workshop to workshop, we are activating space to reflect, relax, and restore by centering on the community's connection and power. Pajamas welcome. Sleeping bags encouraged. More to come!
 
2026 Host Schools
May 9 — Riverdale Country School (River Campus)
Novas (Grades 2–4) & Rising Novas (Grades 5–7)
May 16 — Avenues: The World School (NY)
Supernovas (Grades 8–12)
 
Current School-Sponsored Cohorts
We’re grateful to already be partnering with:
The Dalton School · St. Luke’s School (NYC) · The Chapin School · Riverdale Country School · Avenues: The World School (NY)

How to Participate
Families
You may register independently, or invite your school to sponsor a cohort so scholars attend together.
 
Schools
We welcome schools to sponsor a cohort and provide their students access to a shared affinity experience grounded in wellness, belonging, and peer connection.
 
 
Brown Butter Collective continues to grow because families and educators recognize the importance of spaces where Black girls are not performing, explaining, or navigating — just being.
 
We look forward to gathering this spring and summer again.
 
With care and anticipation,
Gina Parker Collins
Founder, RIISE & Brown Butter Collective
 

 
PO Box 471
Fleetwood, New York 10552, United States