Find out what is happening and whats to come from Teen Programs!
Step Up Saturdays!
The Step Up Saturday Series is a new offering this semester from the Teen Programs vertical. These sessions will allow for a smaller group of Step Up on Campus teens to receive mentorship focused on social capital skill-building practice in a fun, supportive environment. We look forward to hosting teens in our Step Up cities for exciting and interesting experiences like escape rooms, putt-putt golf, bowling, painting parties and the like. The sessions are slated to be piloted this spring in Atlanta + Dallas, with more to be offered in the fall in other cities.
Financial Literacy Sessions
Through Financial Literacy Week sessions we encourage Step Up teens to begin thinking about their futures and careers. Students will consider a variety of factors in various industries and determine how much income a person can expect to earn in specific fields.
For Step UpFinancial Literacy Weeks at Dallas School Uplift Grand, students were joined by Step Up Mentor and Project Beauty CEO, Jo Lam who talked through her experience as a former Wall Street Stockbroker and her journey in building her own business. Students were guided through the activities, envisioning what their future careers could be while also diving into the logistics of what it takes to get there, and how much they can expect to earn depending on the industry and role.
Amber Nichole Inspires Kennedy High: A teen talk about health and wellness and her Journey to Wellness and success
Chicago Content Creator, Amber Nichole graced the stage at Kennedy High School as a distinguished speaker, sharing her personal journey and wisdom on mental health and wellness, along with the challenges she confronted in order toestablish a more balanced work-life dynamic. With her remarkable achievements as a content creator and past small business owner, Amber motivated and empowered students in lively discussions with Step Up girls, drawing from her own experiences and offering invaluable insights. Covering everything from personal anecdotes to stress management techniques and conquering debilitating migraines and post-graduate burnout. Amber's interactive discussion left a lasting impact, inspiring students to embark on their journey towards a healthier lifestyle with newfound confidence and determination.
Are you ready to make a meaningful impact in a young girl's life?
Step Up invites you to join our mission of empowering young women to define and achieve their dreams through mentorship.
As a mentor with Step Up, you'll have the opportunity to engage in one-on-one sessions, group activities, and on-demand support to help girls unlock their full potential. No prior mentoring experience is required — just a willingness to listen, guide, and uplift.
Join us in shaping brighter futures and empowering young women to reach for the stars. Visit: become a mentor here to take the first step towards becoming a mentor today!"
Meet a Step Up Teen Ambassador
Name: Jessica Brown
School: BELA High School
City: New York
SU: Why did you decide to join Step Up?
JB:I joined Step-up because my counselor, Ms. Kim Peters told me I should join. I was a new student and Step-up helped me gain friendships. I was able to go on field trips and learn about careers, colleges, and myself.
SU:Which session of Step Up on Campus was your favorite? Why?
JB: My favorite sessions were the trip to NBC and GSTX. Also, I liked the sessions we had in school about networking. I liked the trips because I was able to learn from adults about their careers which will help me to understand that everyone has a different journey. I liked the networking session because I was able to learn how to communicate with others.
SU:What area do you feel like you have grown the most through your participation in Step Up?
JB: My ability to network and speak to others. I learned how to be open and learn how to converse with others. Generally, I am quiet but through Step-up classes, I became comfortable talking to other people I don't know. I know this will be helpful in my future career and education. Also, The area I feel like I have grown the most is my knowledge of different careers.
SU:How has Step Up impacted you or supported you in your plans?
JB: Step-Up has supported my decision for the future by allowing me to be myself and grow. I may not know what I want to do in the future but I understand now that the skies are the limit. I can change careers and I don't need to have all the answers but this is my time to explore. I know now that everyone has a different journey and I can pave my own path.
SU:What is your favorite thing about your fellow?
JB: My favorite thing about my fellow is she is supportive of anything not only Step-up. but in all aspects. She is our cheerleader and hands-on. She pushes me to join programs and be involved.
Meet a Step Up Fellow
Name: Shelby Stone
School: Stratford STEM Magnet High School
City: Nashville
Role at school: School Counselor
Number of years at school:
"This is my 10th year (9 years with a non-profit within the school and this is my first year as a school counselor)"
SU: Why do you think Step Up on Campus is a good fit for Stratford?
SS:This is Step Up’s second year at Stratford and it has shown to be a great program for our young ladies. I was excited for the opportunity to expand the program to additional grade levels and onadditional days.
SU:Why did you decide to become a fellow?
SS:I have loved watching Ashley Roth, our initial fellow, lead and develop the program at Stratford, so when presented with the opportunity to bring additionalStep Up offerings to Stratford this semester I jumped on it!
SU:How do you recruit students for the program?
SS:This semester, I have targeted Senior Girls through a SEL focused small group during the school day. Additionally, I have recruited 11th and 12th grade girls who participate in after-school programming and athletics.
SU: What are you most looking forward to as a fellow this semester?
SS:I look forward to building meaningful relationships with the young ladies of our school, as well as collaborating with Ms. Roth’s group to bring together girls of all grades.
SU:Anything else you want to share with our school partners around the country?
SS:I am excited to be a part of this amazing organization and learn from women across the country!
