Amanda Holder
Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, about five minutes from the Washington School for the Deaf, my exposure to ASL and Deaf culture began at a young age. However, two people in particular played a significant role in shaping my path toward interpreting.
When I was about 10yrs old I played on a soccer team and one of my teammates was deaf. I would sign with her on and off the field, and I remember wanting to be able to communicate beyond simple things like “good game.” I wanted to be able to have real conversations and connect with her. That experience was one of the first times I realized how meaningful ASL could be as a way to connect with someone.
The second was my mom’s best friend, who is a CODA. Spending time with her and her family gave me an even deeper connection to ASL and Deaf culture. I especially remember signing with her Deaf father at summer barbecues and how happy those conversations made me. She’s one of my biggest supporters in pursuing interpreting and continues to motivate me to be the best interpreter I can be.
By the time I officially took ASL classes during my sophomore year of high school, ASL already felt intuitive and I knew from then on I wanted to become an interpreter.
Looking back, those experience were some of the many that helped me realize I love what interpreting allows me to do: connect with people. When I’m not working you will probably find me at Disneyland with a Mickey ice cream bar in my hand. I love reading whatever is next on my never ending TBR (to-be-read) list and I also enjoy baking treats like cookies and pies. I live in Riverside with my husband, our dutch shepherd mix – Leia, and our golden retriever- Obi. My husband and I just had the most beautiful wedding in Barbados this year and can’t wait to go back.
Destani Long
Destani Long has been a valued member of the RISE team since July 2023, bringing both lived experience and a genuine passion for American Sign Language to her work. ASL has always been an integral part of Destani’s life, it is the second language in her household. Her father is Deaf, and while he began learning ASL later in life, her mother, an interpreter and DHH teacher, ensured their home was bilingual by the time Destani was just three years old. This foundation reflects RISE’s value of being people centered, recognizing the importance of language access and honoring the richness of Deaf culture.
This people-centered approach was shaped by her personal understanding of the impact accessible communication has on individuals and families. She values the trust placed in her and is committed to supporting others with care, empathy, and respect. ASL is a true passion for Destani, and she is grateful to work in a field that allows her to use and strengthen her skills every day while building meaningful, trust-based relationships.
Outside of work, Destani enjoys going to the beach, swimming, reading, writing, playing with her dogs, and spending quality time with family and friends. Looking ahead, she hopes to complete her degree in Social Work, write a book, travel the world, and one day step foot in every ocean, perhaps even swimming with sharks. She may also pursue an interpreting certificate in the future as she continues to grow professionally and RISE to the challenge of serving others in new ways.
Fun facts about Destani: she recently became a Disney Pass holder, loves roller coasters, but draws the line at upside-down rides—an irony she fully embraces.
EIPA and RID testing dates are now posted!
Testing is now scheduled on Thursdays, and RISE is also offering EIPA and RID testing on select Saturdays, with spots still open for the upcoming Saturday, October 10, 2026 testing date.
Upcoming Saturday Testing Dates
Saturday, November 14, 2026
Saturday, December 19, 2026
EIPA Testing
View performance assessment information and available testing details.
RID Testing
Review RISE RID certification testing information and upcoming availability.
Team members going above and beyond
A quick spotlight on team members who showed flexibility, care, advocacy, and support when it mattered.
Support, flexibility, and follow-through
Frances was recently commended by the teacher on site for consistently going above and beyond to support her classroom, especially during times when the class is short-staffed. Her willingness to step up, help wherever needed, and remain focused on what is best for the students truly reflects what it means to RISE to the Challenge. Frances demonstrates being People Centered through her commitment to the students and staff around her, while also Building Trust by being someone her team can rely on. Her dedication is a wonderful example of the positive impact that comes from showing up with compassion, flexibility, and a true team spirit.
Advocacy under pressure
Mack was recently commended by Erika, Interpreter L, for the outstanding support he provided in a unique and challenging situation. Despite having limited resources and support from the site, Mack did everything he could to RISE to the Challenge and ensure the student received the support he needed. When unexpectedly asked to participate in a meeting regarding the student’s support services, Mack confidently explained his role, clarified the Interpreter’s role, and advocated for the student’s needs. His ability to remain composed, adaptable, and focused on the student demonstrates being People Centered, while his willingness to step up and advocate reflects the trust and confidence we strive to build in the work we do.
Leila Hanaumi’s Children’s Book Series
Leila Hanaumi’s Children’s book series following “Midori” are sure to warm your heart and be a great addition to your bookshelf! Please see the video of Leila introducing her book, along with a wonderful tip… Her books are also available in ASL! You will need to download “Bilingual Stories Bookshelf” but there you can buy/ view not just her books, but other books that have been brought to life in ASL. We hope you enjoy!
RISE End-of-Year Party
Mark your calendar for RISE’s End-of-Year Party on Friday, December 11, 2026, from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
This year’s theme is Light Up the Night. Employees can keep an eye on their RISE email for RSVP details and additional event information.
A few important notes
Helpful reminders and quick access points to keep everyone informed this month.
Phone Usage
Phone usage! Phones should only be used in class as a tool, not for recreational or continuous communication. If you have an urgent matter you should inform the teacher, step out of the room to handle the urgent matter, and return back as soon as possible or hold calls, texts, or social media use until your breaks.
Get the Best of Stress
Emotional Wellness Month in October 2026 is an annual observance dedicated to evaluating stress levels, managing feelings constructively, and priortizing mental self-care.
Employee Handbook
Where can I find the Employee Handbook? You can find the Employee Handbook on Insperity. From your dashboard on the left-hand side, click on “Forms and Policies.” On the next page, you will find the Employee Handbook link in the upper right corner.
Holiday Time Off
With the holidays approaching, please remember to request any upcoming time off as early as possible. Ensure you reach out to your supervisor to get your schedule approved well in advance.
Email Reminder
Please make sure to check and read your RISE emails regularly. Important updates, schedule information, training reminders, policy changes, and time-sensitive announcements may be sent by email. Staying current helps prevent missed information and keeps communication clear across the team.
What do you do to try and stay positive?
A few thoughtful reminders from fellow RISE team members on what helps them reset, stay grounded, and keep moving forward.
I try to focus on the good parts of the day, even when they are small. I remind myself that one hard moment doesn’t have to make it a bad day. I try to give people grace, laugh often, and remember that tomorrow is always a fresh start!
— Brooke R.
One thing I do to stay positive is remind myself of my goals and focus on what I can control. When something stressful or unexpected happens, I try to learn from it, look for a solution, and keep moving forward. I also make time for the people and activities that make me happy, which helps me stay motivated and maintain a positive outlook.
— Rose Q.
I try to stay positive by reminding myself that everyone has bad days. When I have a difficult day at home, I make a conscious effort not to bring that negativity to work or take it out on my coworkers or students. I leave what happened at home, focus on the present moment, and come to work with an optimistic attitude. I believe creating a positive environment starts with how we choose to respond to our own challenges. 🙂
— Sandra L.
October Birthdays
Wishing a very happy birthday to our October birthday crew!
Alyssa Gonzales
Kristeena Thaten
Robin Dragoo
Antonio Alvarez
Darlene Garbett
Maria Lopez-Garcia
Monthly Statistics
Obtuse
adjective
Definition: Describing a person who is unintelligent, dense, or failing to understand what should be obvious. It can also mean someone who is deliberately missing the point or ignoring hints.
Example: “He was too obtuse to realize she was trying to end the conversation”
Joke of the Month
Why did the scarecrow win an award? He was outstanding in his field
Have something to share next month?
Send in employee highlights, department updates, photos, Deaf community spotlights, pet features, or peer props so we can continue celebrating the RISE team.
