Creating change in family’s lives, in small ways, that delivers the greatest impact.
“I suffer from anxiety and depression and I am a first-generation college student from a family of minimal means. Decisions about what to study and what college to go to are big decisions with great expenses, all-the-while not knowing all of the hidden costs, just learning about them along the way. I researched on-line for some kind of assistance for people like me, and I found Step Up For Mental Health®. From my first phone call with [my Peer Support Faciliator], she helped me and she was so supportive. She made me realize that there are many people who faced the same challenges and they succeeded – and I can too. She made me feel a sense of support and understanding. She explained things to me and asked what kind of help I needed. I told her that I have a list of school supplies that I need, but didn’t have the funds to go buy them. She said she would do her best to help me, and she did. Within a couple of weeks, she reached out to me to let me know that she had a box full of the school supplies that I needed AND a gift card to Aldi to help me and my family out! This help was such a welcome surprise. With the COVID-19 situation, we masked up and met in a convenient (for both of us) parking lot of a shopping center and she gave me all the supplies I was in need of – AND an Aldi gift card! This was so helpful to me and will help me succeed! and I hope that other students and people in need suffering from mental health issues, find this organization and will reach out to them – AMAZING!”
– Emily, Step Up For Kids Program, Skokie, IL – 2020
“Step Up for Kids Program helped pay for my 8th grade Washington D.C. trip, and for that, I can’t thank them enough. I had an amazing time taking pictures of some of the pivotal landmarks – for example, Lincoln’s Memorial and John F. Kennedy’s resting place. I got to learn a lot about the history of the U.S. and the story of my culture and people with places like Capitol Hill and the Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture. I experienced the changing of the guard and ate a nice dinner at an Italian restaurant called Bertucci’s. None of this would’ve been possible without the help of Step Up for Kids Program, and I am so appreciative of them for giving me the opportunity to go on this trip and learn while hanging out with my schoolmates.” (Mom deals with mental health-related issues.)
– Hailey, 8th grade, Honor Student, Matteson, IL – 2020
“I am writing this letter to thank Step Up For Mental Health® for your swift and generous support. My life was in a hopeless situation because I had run out of options to receive financial assistance for my rent. The small grant program that I qualified for through Step Up for Mental Health® was crucial in helping me during my crisis. [Helpline: Peer Support Facilitator’s] positive attitude, compassion, and empathy about my situation was the ray of hope I desperately needed. I am proof great things are happening at Step Up For Mental Health® in the community. I applaud your organization and leadership for it’s genuine commitment to making life easier for those in need during a crisis. When I am back on my feet, I plan to donate money to Step Up For Mental Health® to pay it forward. Again thank you, I am very grateful for the assistance you provided to me!
– Marilyn, Step Up Assistance & Small Grant Program, Arlington Heights, IL – 2020
“As a self-employed single mother, financial stress and worry had only exasperated my struggle with depression and anxiety. Step Up For Mental Health® has been a Godsend! I can’t say or thank this incredible organization enough for how it has blessed and enriched the lives of me and my daughter during one of the toughest times in my life. The financial assistance happened immediately, not only stabilizing some of our financial troubles, but it also allowed me to focus on self-care and mindfully managing my mental and emotional well being. Step Up For Mental Health® also provided valuable resources and access to online classes that will help me update my technical skills, to get us back on the long-term track of financial independence. Thank God for Step Up For Mental Health®!”
Andrea L., Step Up Assistance & Small Grant Program – 2019
Great job Step Up For Mental Health® – YOU took a lot of stress off my shoulders by helping me. Besides the monetary help – just talking to [Peer Support Faciliator] boosted my spirit, reassured me, and encouraged me as I set out on my college journey. I hope that Step Up For Mental Health® has a lot of support so that they can continue to do their amazing work – helping people who need it!
“I would sincerely like to express my heartfelt thanks for Step up for Mental Health® providing my family a way out when I had no other resources. Words cannot express how comfortable Step Up For Mental Health® made me feel about the situation we were facing. They were heaven sent, I kid you not, Adrienne came to my house and I live an hour and a half away from her. She showed up, we talked like we knew each other for years. I must say, I was praying for a way to rectify my issues and they came like a blessing in disguise. I absolutely love her demeanor, very patient, caring, and friendly. I felt it was a great experience to just have met someone as a person. I must say Step Up For Mental Health® was my Angel, and god sent them to me. Thank you!!!!!!!”
Dawn B., Small Grant Program – 2019
“Thank you so much for the assistance [Step Up For Mental Health®] provided my family with uniforms and school supplies. This assistance provided my family with much-needed help in my time of need. I was in a position that could not afford clothes or supplies for my children due to a lack of income. This assistance helps eliminate the having to choose between paying my rent or paying for their clothes. It is hard finding programs that help with low middle-class families. I am grateful for this assistance because it put my mind at ease. I would surely refer this organization to other low middle-class families.”
Stacey J., Step Up For Kids Program – 2019
“Thank you greatly for [Step Up For Mental Health®] caring and generous donation to my Writing Notebooks projects. Through your contribution, my students have one of the tools that will guide them to grow as writers during the foundational stage of learning. My students will use the notebooks to keep a collection of their writing and over time have pride in their work as they see how they have grown. Thank you once more. My students can’t wait to get their hands on these! With gratitude.”
Ms. Aguirre, Nixon Elementary, Step Up For Kids Program – 2019
