Family Ties: Makenzie H.

Five-year-old Makenzie H. is very confident in the reasons why she loves StepUp Ministry’s Children’s Program.

“I like playing with toys, playing with my friends, and playing outside. I like to have fun and love to learn about EVERYTHING! It is super fun!! We get to have dinner, learn about all types of things, meet new people, and make new friends!”

Makenzie’s mom, Ashley, first became a part of StepUp when she enrolled in our Employment Academy. Through this program and the hard work and dedication she put into it, she was able to secure a stable, well-paying job.  Ashley has had one clear goal since joining StepUp: to stay engaged in a positive learning environment and transform her family. By enrolling her five children in StepUp's Children's Program she was able to achieve both aspects of this goal. “It has increased my ability to consistently attend since I feel secure knowing my child is also in a structured learning environment. I was happy that there was a place for my child to come to while I was in my program classes. All the staff show consistent dedication to each family member to ensure of overall support and care.” To Makenzie, the benefits have been much simpler. “I feel really happy and excited to see my teacher and friends each Tuesday night.”

It's clear to all that StepUp’s programs have had a positive impact on both Ashley and Makenzie. While Ashley is thriving personally and professionally, she says Makenzie’s changes have also been remarkable. “It has made Makenzie more outgoing and sociable. She has been known to be very shy and reserved; however, since her joining the Children’s Program, she really enjoys coming and spending time with the friends she has made.”

Ashley is dedicated to breaking cycles and providing a positive environment for her children. And the mission of StepUp has always been to assist in that transformation. “I am a single mother of five children, and trying to find a place for all of us to grow and become better as a family is hard. I am grateful for StepUp Ministry and the way they took my whole family in under their loving arms.”