StepUp Alumni Program Highlights: November, 2019

StepUp Ministry Alumni Participants have a new name: StepUp Ambassadors! The alumni program has committed to assigning Life Skills program graduates as mentors to our incoming Alumni Program participants. Requirements for StepUp Ambassadors include being one year removed from the Life Skills program as a graduate, being in good standing and actively involved in the Alumni program, and demonstrating leadership skills through participation in our Toastmasters Club Program. The Ambassadors will work closely with new members to help them achieve their short-term and long-term career goals while offering guidance for their continued journey towards stability.

The StepUp Speakers’ Circle Toastmasters International Club welcomed six new members while welcoming back three re-activating club members. The club also received its President’s Distinguished Club ribbon, the highest level a club can achieve through Toastmasters International! The StepUp Speakers Circle also enjoyed a visit from a Toastmasters International keynote speaker, Dr. Kevin Synder. During the club meeting, Dr. Kevin read an excerpt from one of his new books, Think Differently. Dr. Kevin was so inspired by the club members that he became one himself! We welcome Dr. Kevin as a professional speaker and dedicated mentor.

The club also hosted a special event on November 14th featuring James Ivy, Jr. James is a Life Skills graduate, StepUp Ministry board member, Toastmaster member, club officer, and now, a published author. At the event, James signed copies of his first literary work, 35 Principles – The Road to Redemption, and read passages from the book. More than 50 friends and family attended to show their support, meet the author, and listen to a few anecdotes from James' life.

Attendance at StepUp Ministry’s Alumni Program continues to grow. Planning is currently underway for 2020. We are planning visits to conferences, workshops, seminars, and other community events. StepUp Ministry is excited about what lies ahead for the Alumni Program!

Last month, the Carolina Hurricanes invited the Alumni children to attend a home game this month! The Carolina Hurricanes Foundation provided the group with a lovely view of the ice from a suite complete with snacks and drinks. While cheering on the Canes, the Alumni children were surprised by a visit from a few members of the Storm Squad!