Our Executive Director Shoma Haque recently participated in "Fundraising Strategies in the New Normal.” Moderated by the Women In Nonprofit (WIN) Network, this conversation featured local nonprofit leaders in a variety of fields discussing their recent experiences in fundraising and thoughts about managing during these trying times. We encourage you to view a recording of this illuminating presentation by clicking here.

We write with especially heavy hearts around the events in our nation and the Brookline community. One of our core values at Steps to Success is to combat systemic inequality, by making educational equity the heart of our mission. Recent tragic events highlight the struggle that our students of color face on a daily basis, to be seen and heard as people, deserving of fairness, justice, and opportunity.  While we feel the anger, frustration, and despair, we will not lose sight of our goal - to provide safe, enriching, emotionally fulfilling and positive places for your children to grow, thrive, and realize their incredible potential. Steps to Success is a strong community, and we will continue to be here for our students and families during this difficult time.

The pandemic has created a unique situation, requiring us to adapt our programs accordingly. We are making the best of the circumstances, and are excited to share what we are up to this summer:

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➢ While our summer camp partners make decisions about the viability of in-person programming, Steps advisors are reaching out to each of our Steps families to ensure individualized attention for all of our elementary school students.

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➢ Summer Connections, for our middle school students, will run virtually this summer starting July 6, and we will support families lacking reliable computers or Internet access to ensure that all students can participate. This will include preparation for high school, daily virtual classes in July, and project-based curricula with a focus on Service Learning and Media and Technology Literacy. Summer stipends will be available for students completing the program – an important part of making ends meet for many of our families.

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➢ Work Connections, our internship program for high school students, will also take place online starting July 6, and Steps students will be paid to engage in weekly virtual trainings on topics such as workplace readiness and financial literacy. Students will also complete an independent or group project, and will be part of a career panel session with professionals from various fields discussing a range of career options.

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➢ Our College Success Initiative will support Steps’ college students as they deal with fast-moving changes and keep their eyes on completing their education and building toward a successful career in a tough economic climate.