As we enter the season of gratitude, we’re reminded that every act of generosity, big or small, has the power to change lives. This month, we’re celebrating the ripple effect of giving, from the grandmother whose family found stability through our support, to the incredible community events that keep kinship families strong all year long.

We’re thrilled to once again take part in LizFit’s Spinning Generosity, a week-long fundraiser that unites our community in joyful giving, and we’re honored to be chosen as Exeter Subaru’s Share the Love recipient this holiday season. Together, these efforts will help kinship caregivers across New Hampshire and Southern Maine face the winter months with hope and stability.

Thank you for continuing to step up for kinship families. You make this work possible!

On December 12, Step Up Parents will be riding for a cause for the third year in a row at LizFit's Spinning Generosity! Spinning Generosity is a seven-day indoor cycling fundraiser where riders, donors, and sponsors raise money for seven local organizations. Since Spinning Generosity began in 2011, the event has raised nearly $1 million — let’s make this the year we surpass that milestone!

With help from our team of riders and generous supporters, we’re determined to raise $30,000 during Spinning Generosity this year. This money will carry kinship families through the winter months ahead, when need is greater than ever. Who’s ready to help us make it happen!? Mark your calendars and please consider joining our fundraising efforts!

Fundraising is ongoing! Please consider donating or sign up to ride with Team Step Up Parents.

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! 

Kinship Care Story: A Grandmother’s Gratitude

For years, a New Hampshire grandmother has been raising her three grandchildren due to their parents’ struggle with substance use disorder. Like many kinship caregivers, she faces the challenge of providing stability, love, and security, all while managing the financial and emotional strain that often comes with stepping into this vital role.

When an unexpected expense added to her stress, Step Up Parents was able to provide her with financial assistance. The support, she said, made all the difference.

“Knowing we had Step Up Parents to turn to during our time of need, without judgment, was such a lifesaver,” she shared. “It relieved such a huge burden from me so that I was able to continue focusing on what was most important—giving my love and support to my grandchildren to help them continue to feel safe and grow.”

After 14 years of giving, a small idea has grown into something massive! What started as a single Friday spin class in December 2011 has evolved into the week-long celebration of giving known as Spinning Generosity. In that time, it has raised nearly $1 million for Seacoast nonprofits. Founder Liz Forkel, owner of LizFit, explains her goal: “I wanted to give myself the gift of truly giving. In my soul, that’s what I love to do.”

This year, Step Up Parents is honored to be one of the benefiting charities, marking our third consecutive year. We’re deeply grateful for this vibrant, inclusive event that brings our community together around the joy of support and service.

If you’re worried about loss of access to SNAP or WIC benefits, you’re not alone. We’re here for you. Here are key resources you can tap now:

Contact 2-1-1 for food pantry and assistance referrals in your region. Continue applying or renewing SNAP — your application may still be processed, even if funding is paused.

If you’re in New Hampshire, the New Hampshire Food Bank is partnering with the state to launch extra mobile pantries for SNAP recipients. Visit the state’s SNAP and WIC Federal Shutdown info page for updates and food access info.

If you’re in Southern Maine, Good Shepherd Food Bank and area anti-hunger programs are receiving a state grant so they can boost food distribution as federal funding pauses. If you live in Maine, call 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211 to get pantry listings.

Check out this post on our Facebook page for additional resources.

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.