“I found StepUp—not because I was desperate, but because I wanted more.”

As she worked through our Empower 48 Life Skills Program, Sianna L. finally felt seen and understood. She made friends who supported her, found mentors who challenged her, and received resources to support her daughter. Today, StepUp Ambassador Sianna is one semester away from earning her college degree, she owns a successful jewelry design business, and her daughter is thriving.

“StepUp didn’t just teach me skills—it gave me the vision and courage to build a completely new life.”

When Timothy joined our Empower 48 Life Skills Program, he was ready to make a change—but he never imagined just how far his dreams would take him. Fast forward to today—StepUp Ambassador Timothy is the proud owner of a thriving dog grooming business right here in Durham. Every day, he puts the tools he gained at StepUp into practice: casting vision, setting clear goals, and living with purpose. He’s not just grooming dogs—he’s building the life he once only dared to dream.