Why We Step Up: Denyse Richter, Board President and Founder

Step Up Parents' board members are united by a shared passion: supporting kinship caregivers who courageously step up for children affected by parental substance use disorder. For many, the decision to get involved is deeply personal, shaped by experiences within their own families and communities.

Over the next several weeks, we’ll be spotlighting each board member and sharing what inspired them to join our mission in a series called #WhyWeStepUp. We begin with our Founder and Board President, Denyse Richter.

“Our mission touches people’s hearts,” says Denyse. “How can you not want to support these heroic caregivers selflessly stepping up for innocent children? Nearly everyone knows someone who is a kinship caregiver. Their stories are both similar and unique, and I’m always struck by the positive attitudes of the caregivers we’ve been honored to help.

“Their strength and perseverance, under the most challenging circumstances, is truly inspiring. Our timely assistance helps maintain family stability and reminds these families they are not alone as they walk this difficult path.”