A STEP AHEAD SEPTEMBER 2022 News and Updates for Friends of Building STEPS

OFF TO A GREAT START

Partner School Visits What better way to show appreciation and start the new school year than with donut deliveries? Grateful for their partnership, Asia, Building STEPS Program Associate Outreach and Exploration, made the rounds to our 15 partner Baltimore City Public high schools, thanking the counselors for their support and for sharing their students with us.

From top left clockwise: Asia Cole, Building STEPS Program Associate Outreach and Exploration, visits Digital Harbor, Augusta Fells, Vivien T. Thomas and Frederick Douglass high schools.

Welcoming The 23rd Cohort A staple and favorite of the Building STEPS program is the outdoor teambuilding day spent at Genesee Valley Outdoor Learning Center. Our new high school juniors stepped out of their comfort zones, overcoming fears by challenging themselves on the high element ropes course. This unique experience helps set the tone for the year ahead, builds trust and encourages friendships.

HIGHER EDUCATION ON THE HORIZON

College Workshop Launches Senior Year High school seniors traveled to Towson University for their first college workshop! After a year of STEM exploration, seniors are now ready to dive into everything college related. They started the Common Application and brainstormed college essay ideas with volunteer writing advisors.College Workshops focus on the college and financial aid processes, while preparing the seniors to navigate first year college choices, opportunities and challenges.

College Freshmen Check-Ins Personal connections with college students are critical to supporting continued success. Our College Success Program Associate is making the rounds on Maryland college campuses to visit first year students. Conversations and a bite to eat create opportunities to ensure students are on point and maximizing campus resources.(Pictured are two University of Maryland Eastern Shore students who met our team for a quick lunch on campus!)

CELEBRATING CHAMPIONS AND SUCCESS

Denim & Dreams Celebrating our students' success and partners who make it possible, Denim & Dreams brought together stakeholders, donors, alumni and friends for a fun, casual barbeque and game night. We recognized some of our amazing partners for the 2021-22 program year with special awards. Thank you to all involved, our event sponsors, and to those who continue to change lives and cultivate Baltimore’s future changemakers.

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