A STEP AHEAD
September 2020
News and Updates for
Friends of Building STEPS
GOOD NEWS
Building STEPS Featured On Midday MD
CEO Debra Hettleman and Building STEPS alum Isaiah Wildes spoke with WMAR's host Elsa M. about programming, student success and our impact on Baltimore. Take a quick look here if you missed the segment.
Volunteer Engagement at All Time High
Remote learning and working has created a unique confluence of circumstances-students need additional academic support, and people have more flexibility to volunteer. Better yet, volunteers from all over the country can now get involved! We have writing advisors from Nevada and Atlanta joining our team of volunteers!
PROGRAMMING UPDATE
Spreading The Love
With solid teleprogramming and seemingly nonstop Zoom events, we're crafting a meaningful way to ensure our students feel especially connected. As remote learning continues, we send our high schoolers special and useful care packages each month. Goodies include: school supplies, popcorn and a movie link, cookies and hot chocolate, and of course, a Building STEPS logo mask!
Ready, Set, Learn
College Workshop #1 kicked off for our high school seniors. Students were introduced to the college admissions process and key strategies for submitting successful college applications. Throughout senior year, workshops will include college admission tips and exercises, essay writing support and navigating first year college challenges. A shoutout to all of our Writing Advisor volunteers who guide our students as they craft their college essays.
QUOTES & NOTES
Lead By Example. Lead With Your Heart.
Dr. Elizabeth Spannhake attended Building STEPS Achievement Reception in 2018. Touched by the students’ stories and success, she immediately knew she wanted to get involved and support the organization. In lieu of traditional holiday gifts for her clients, her orthodontic practice made a contribution to Building STEPS in her clients’ honor. Dr. Spannhake explains, “It was an easy process and a meaningful way to celebrate the holiday season." Click here to learn how to Lead With Your Heart.
Why We Love What We Do
"Thank you for the Building STEPS t-shirt. I love it! The program over the summer was the best experience! Everything you taught me, I swear we are now using at my college. So once again, thank you. P.S.-you guys should have this program for kids next year. It will help them a lot!"
Joi E.
Alabama State University

"I just want to give a personal thanks to Sheyna at Building STEPS. You've been like a mother figure when it comes to everything with school. I can come to you about anything, and it's highly appreciated."
Tavon
University of Maryland College Park
Doing Our Part
Slam Poetry Raises Awareness
Our team is focusing in and connecting with racial injustice in different yet meaningful ways. For Asia, slam poetry is her artistic connection. Slam poetry is a form of performance poetry that combines elements of performance, writing, competition, and audience participation. Check out some of Asia’s favorites. 
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