Step By Step is an organization that assists struggling young mothers and their children in all aspects of their lives. The mothers are 14-24 years old and typically face a series of emotional, physical, and/or financial hardships. Step By Step (SBS for short) provides mentoring, support groups, crisis intervention, transportation to meetings as well as many other services to help get these young women back on track. The overall mission of Step By Step is to improve the lives of every mother and child who walks through their doors. SBS summarized themselves best in their Facebook description, “Step By Step is where young single mothers ages 14 to 24 find the encouragement they need to accomplish their dreams!”
My first impression came when I attended an orientation meeting for new and returning volunteers. The meeting was held in Tates Creek Christian Church, who provides Step By Step with a kind of “home base” in their facilities.. Within seconds of entering the church, we were met with the charismatic and enthusiastic program director, Ms. Tanya Torp. From the very beginning, Ms. Torp made me and all the other volunteers feel comfortable and welcome.
As the orientation progressed, it became more and more obvious what an uplifting environment Step By Step is. Rather than focusing on disadvantages and challenges, the staff and mothers at Step By Step meet every obstacle with an infectious “Can Do!” attitude. This positivity made me even more excited to volunteer for SBS. I couldn’t wait to volunteer the following Thursday!!
My first day at Step By Step began with my room assignment. I was placed in the 18-month-old to 3-year-old room along with six other volunteers. We started out in the “foam room” that had various slides and playhouses for bigger kids. The first children to arrive were two sisters, ages 2 and 3. Both of these girls stole my heart at first glance! Although they were both cautious of the new volunteers at first (we were strangers, of course), I bonded with them over a play ball and slides. Both girls were incredibly sweet and affectionate, and reminded me again and again why I wanted to volunteer with this amazing organization.
Three hours later, I was exhausted. Even with plenty of other volunteers and toys, there was never a dull moment. Feeding, watching and providing entertainment for toddlers is no small feat! The reward for this service learning project is worth it. Getting to know these amazing kids and their mothers while helping them and their families is already an amazing experience.
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