Step Up Women's Network
Overview
Step Up Women's Network (often referred to as Step Up) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering girls in under-resourced communities to realize their full potential. Founded in 1998 in Los Angeles, the organization provides mentorship and programs that focus on preparing young women to become confident and career-focused. Step Up has developed a network of women professionals who mentor girls to help them transition from high school to college and into their careers. The nonprofit primarily operates in cities across the United States, including Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York.
Recent Developments
- December 2023: Step Up launched a mentoring app designed to provide young adults aged 18-29 with remote mentorship opportunities. The app allows for on-demand mentoring and self-guided lessons, aiming to foster one-on-one connections between young adults and mentors.
- October and November 2023: Step Up held its Inspiration Awards in Los Angeles and, for the first time, in Chicago, marking the event's return since its COVID-related hiatus. The event celebrated 25 years of mentorship, recognizing individuals for their commitment to empowering young women.
- September 2023: The nonprofit introduced a digital community platform for flash mentorship, in partnership with MentorPRO, offering targeted support for young women and member mentors.
- July 2023: Applications were accepted for the 2023-2024 AmeriCorps VISTA cohort. This initiative supports Step Up’s strategic goals of expanding its programs through virtual and in-person mentorship methodologies.
- March 2023: Step Up continued its strategic plan to enhance emotional and social skills development programs across its partner schools and expanded its focus on corporate partnerships to provide career exploration opportunities.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 1998 |
| Headquarters | Los Angeles, California |
| Founders | N/A (No specific names mentioned) |
| Revenue | N/A |
| Profits | N/A |
| Key Investors | Members, corporations, and foundations |
| Industry | Nonprofit, Mentorship |
| Number of Employees | N/A |
| Major Locations | Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, Dallas |
Early History
Step Up Women's Network was conceived in 1998 with the mission to bridge the gap in mentorship for girls from under-resourced communities. Early efforts involved setting up afterschool programs and mentorship initiatives in Los Angeles. By 2000, Step Up had developed a strong foundation with structured programs that addressed both academic and personal development for participating girls. This period saw the organization establish partnerships with local high schools to embed mentorship into students’ weekly learning schedules, thus laying the groundwork for its substantial expansion in the coming years.
Company Profile and Achievements
Step Up operates a robust mentoring ecosystem designed to harness the potential of professional women to inspire and guide young girls. The organization’s model is built on:
- Mentorship Programs: Tailored for high school girls, focusing on emotional intelligence and personal growth.
- Corporate Partnerships: Offering career exploration opportunities through field trips and internships.
- Inspiration Awards: Annual events that highlight and celebrate achievements in mentorship across different cities.
- Impact Metrics: Consistently achieving a high school graduation rate of 98% among participants, with nearly all going on to college.
From its inception, Step Up has placed significant emphasis on inclusivity and sustainability, expanding its reach through a strategic mix of digital and in-person initiatives. The annual Inspiration Awards have become flagship events, showcasing stories of transformation and motivating both mentors and mentees.
Current Operations and Market Position
Currently, Step Up Women's Network commands a respected position in the nonprofit sector, especially within mentorship programs for young women. Its unique approach—focused on emotional intelligence in tandem with academic and career guidance—continues to distinguish it from traditional educational nonprofits. Leveraging a blended model of in-person and digital mentorship, Step Up aims to broaden its impact by aligning with strategic corporate partners while maintaining a grassroots approach through local schools.
Conclusion
Step Up Women's Network continues to pave the way for young women in under-resourced areas to transition successfully from high school to professional environments. Through its comprehensive mentoring programs, community engagement, and strategic partnerships, Step Up has made substantial strides in closing the opportunity gap. Looking forward, the organization remains committed to expanding its reach and enhancing its mentorship offerings, potentially increasing its impact across more cities and communities.