Happy spring and welcome to Step Up Parents’ first monthly newsletter! We are excited to begin sharing these monthly updates, keeping you informed about our latest news and events, and sharing touching stories from the kinship families we support. 

Every April, we recognize National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Sadly, it is estimated that at least 1 in 7 children has experienced abuse or neglect in the past year across the United States. Every child deserves happiness, love, and safety. We strive to do our part to protect children by providing much-needed support to the heroic kinship caregivers who step up to care for and love children in need.

Kinship Care Story: France & Avah

France is a 64-year-old grandmother raising her two granddaughters, 19 and 13, after their mother's substance use disorder led to a stroke, rendering her disabled. Step Up Parents recently provided France with financial assistance, allowing her granddaughter Avah to attend summer camp this year.

"Thank you so much for the assistance,” France wrote to us. “This is Avah's favorite place in the world. All she talks about is going to overnight camp, and without the help of organizations like yours, I would never be able to do this for her."

Step Up Parents is thrilled to invite you to Step Out and Step Up, an extraordinary evening of celebration and impact! On Saturday, September 20, 2025, we will host an evening fundraiser at

The Envio Hotel in Portsmouth to benefit kinship caregivers.

This special night will feature a dinner, speaking program, awards ceremony, silent auction, and music and dancing. It will be an evening filled with hope, community, and generosity, all in support of kinship caregivers who have stepped up to raise children affected by parental substance use disorder in New Hampshire and Southern Maine.

Step Up Parents recently received a $5,000 grant from the Greater Lakes Region Children’s Auction.  

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.