As we head into the holiday season, our hearts are full. This year has been a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together to support kinship families, and December feels like the perfect moment to pause, reflect, and say thank you.

In this issue, we’re celebrating an incredible finish to the year with Spinning Generosity, where Team Step Up Parents showed up in a big way for kinship caregivers. You’ll also read about a small holiday tradition that makes a big difference for families each December, along with opportunities to stay connected and involved as we look ahead to the new year.

From all of us at Step Up Parents, thank you for your generosity and support of kinship families. We wish you a joyful holiday season and a new year filled with hope, connection, and community.

Team Step Up Parents is overflowing with gratitude for everyone who supported us during this year’s Spinning Generosity fundraiser. Thanks to you, we’re excited to celebrate some truly amazing results:

Together, we raised $32,978 — nearly $3,000 above our 2025 goal and $2,000 more than last year’s total! We’re also proud to share that Step Up Parents was the second-highest fundraising team overall.

Every dollar raised goes toward supporting kinship caregivers raising children impacted by parental substance use, helping families cover everyday essentials like groceries, utilities, transportation, and summer camp. Your generosity doesn’t just add up on paper; it shows up in meaningful ways in families’ daily lives. 

A huge thank you to LizFit for hosting this inspiring, high-energy event, which this year raised $158,889 for seven local charities. Spinning Generosity has officially surpassed $1 million in raised funds after 14 years, an extraordinary achievement.

We are deeply grateful to our wonderful sponsors: Service Credit Union, Meredith Village Savings Bank, M&T Charitable Foundation, KRB Kitchen & Bath Design Center, Newburyport Bank, Atlantic Federal Credit Union, and First Seacoast Bank.

What an unforgettable way to close out the year. Thank you for showing up, riding hard, and stepping up for kinship families! 💚🚲

Kinship Care Story: A Small Gift, A Big Impact 

Each December, Step Up Parents sends $50 Amazon gift cards to the kinship families we supported throughout the year. It’s our way of saying thank you and of offering a little extra help during an especially stressful and expensive time of year.

While the gift may be modest, the response from families reminds us just how meaningful it can be. The note featured here, shared by one caregiver, captures the relief, gratitude, and sense of being seen that this simple gesture provides.

Moments like this are a powerful reminder that small acts of support can make a real difference, helping caregivers feel supported, valued, and less alone as they work to keep children safe, stable, and loved during the holidays.

On Wednesday, January 14, 20% of all sales at Vida Cantina in Portsmouth will be donated to Step Up Parents. Come enjoy a delicious meal while making a difference in your community!

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

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

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:

• Whole Village Family Resource Center (603) 536-3720

• Lakes Region Community Services (603)524-8811

• Archways: (603) 286-4255

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.