Step Up, a mentorship nonprofit founded in 1998, announced they are expanding their operations to Nashville after Music City native, Reese Witherspoon, made a multi-year investment.
Step Up is a national nonprofit that serves girls, and those who identify with girlhood, from ages 14 through 23. Step Up is a community of support and guidance, that offers assistance with internship and college applications, networking tips and overall confidence and career building skills.
Three schools will implement this program onto their campuses beginning this school year. KIPP Nashville Collegiate High School, LEAD Southeast High School and Stratford STEM Magnet High School will offer their students a nine-week program focused on building confidence, developing, and honing skills, expanding community and financial literacy.
“The gift is one of the most significant multi-year investments in the organization’s new program model, which recognizes that there are many paths to success for young people,” wrote Step Up Executive Director of Communications Alissa Zito in the nonprofit’s blog.
Step Up also offers a program called Explore Pathways, where participants visit a local workplace to learn about potential careers and become inspired for their futures.
This is just the beginning for Step Up Nashville. The program will be expanded to include more schools and opportunities for the 2023-24 school year. Mentorship programs will also be added to existing and new schools in the upcoming year, granting Nashville girls a community to foster growth and inspire success.
“I deeply believe in expanding educational opportunities for young women, beyond traditional school curriculums, before they enter the working world, whether that is a financial education, broadening one’s understanding of workplace opportunities, or the lengthy and nuanced processes of applying to college, it’s truly an honor to get to provide these young women with life-changing tools,” said Witherspoon.
Through their mentorship programs and curriculum, Step Up is committed to ensuring every girl in their program has the confidence and tools they need to navigate their futures. Step Up is currently operating in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, and New York. However, they offer virtual mentorship support for girls everywhere.
