October is here, and we’re carrying the incredible energy of last month with us! Our Step Out & Step Up fundraiser raised $33,000, funds that will go directly toward easing the burden for kinship caregivers and strengthening families across New Hampshire and Southern Maine. It was an inspiring reminder of what’s possible when a community unites behind a mission!

In this issue, you’ll hear how your support is making a difference for caregivers like Jennifer, find details on a new kinship support group launching this month, and learn how partners like Exeter Subaru are helping us expand our reach. You’ll also discover ways to get involved as we head into the season of giving.

Jennifer’s Kinship Care Story: “This truly helps ease some of the pressure”

When Jennifer stepped into the role of kinship caregiver for her young granddaughter, R, she was determined to provide stability, love, and care no matter the challenges that came her way. However, as so many kinship families know, financial pressures often add to the weight of responsibility.

Thanks to support from Step Up Parents, Jennifer has been able to secure quality daycare for R, giving both of them the stability they need. R is thriving in her routine, and Jennifer has peace of mind knowing that she can count on resources designed for kinship caregivers.

“Assistance with R’s daycare means so much to us,” Jennifer shared. “With the rising costs, this truly helps ease some of the pressure, and I am so grateful to know there are programs like Step Up Parents that step in for families like mine.”

We are still glowing from last month’s Step Out & Step Up fundraiser! Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, guests, and supporters, together we raised $33,000 to support kinship caregivers across New Hampshire and Southern Maine. These funds will directly ease the burden for families like that of our inspiring guest speaker, Elle Rogers, who, with her husband Barry, adopted their three grandchildren in addition to raising their seven children.

We were honored to present our first annual Rising Tides Award to Liz Forkel for her extraordinary commitment to community impact through her annual Spinning Generosity event. A special thank you as well to Gail Huff Brown, our emcee, for guiding us through such a meaningful evening at the beautiful Venue at Portwalk Place.

The power of community can’t be overstated, and we are deeply grateful for your support!

Kinship Family Support Group

Whole Village Family Resource Center, Lakes Region Community Services, and Archways have partnered to launch a monthly Kinship Support Group, a welcoming space to share experiences, find resources, and connect with other caregivers.

🗓 First Wednesday of each month, 11am–12pm (Starting Wednesday, October 1st)

📍 Join virtually on Zoom or attend in person (rotating host centers)

➡️ October’s host: Lakes Region Community Services

These support groups will be a place to celebrate successes, discuss challenges, and build lasting connections. Learn more or join by calling your local Family Resource Center. 

Share the Love with Exeter Subaru 

Mark your calendar! Exeter Subaru has chosen Step Up Parents as its new Share the Love recipient! For every car sold between November 20th and January 2nd, the dealership, in conjunction with Subaru of America, will donate $325 to SUP! 

At Step Up Parents, volunteers are integral to supporting kinship caregivers in New Hampshire and Southern Maine. Consider contributing your time and skills in the following roles:​

• Board Member: Provide strategic guidance and oversight by attending six meetings annually and actively participating in fundraising initiatives.​

• Advisory Committee Member: Offer your expertise to advise on organizational goals without the commitment of a full board position.​

• Mission Ambassador: Promote our mission within your networks, assist in fundraising events, and help expand our community outreach.​

Your involvement directly impacts the lives of kinship families. To learn more and apply, please visit our Volunteer Page.