Step Up Parents Announces Emcee and Program Details for Sept. 20 Benefit

Step Up Parents announced new program highlights for Step Out and Step Up: An Evening to Benefit Kinship Care, taking place from 6:00–10:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at The Venue at Portwalk Place in Portsmouth. Presented by Colonial Appliance Services, the event will be emceed by broadcast journalist Gail Huff Brown and will introduce an annual award that honors kinship caregivers and community partners.

Broadcast journalist Gail Huff Brown will emcee the event

“We are thrilled to welcome Gail Huff Brown as emcee and to introduce an award component that recognizes the extraordinary commitment of kinship families and our partners,” said SUP Board President Denyse Richter. “This event supports caregivers who step up when parents struggle with substance use disorder, and every ticket and sponsorship directly strengthens that safety net.”

The evening will feature a formal dinner, a speaking program highlighting the impact of kinship care, an award presentation, a silent auction, music, and dancing. Auction items will include photography sessions, deep-sea fishing outings, personal chef experience, and more. Tickets are $100 per guest.

Richter expressed gratitude to event sponsors. “We are grateful to our presenting sponsor, Colonial Appliance Services, and to our many community sponsors whose generosity makes this evening possible,” she said. “Their support ensures we can continue providing financial assistance and practical resources to grandparents, relatives, and family friends raising children in New Hampshire and Southern Maine.”

Proceeds from Step Out and Step Up will directly support Step Up Parents’ mission to assist kinship caregivers who provide stable, loving homes to children affected by parental substance use disorder. To sponsor the event, purchase tickets, or learn more about Step Up Parents, visit stepupparents.org/step-out.