Supporting Students Impacted by Gun Violence & Bullying”

STEPUP was founded with a clear mission: to change the trajectory of young lives before they are defined by hardship.

Our founder‘s journey is at the heart of this work. After being wrongfully incarcerated, he witnessed a troubling reality individuals entering the prison system at increasingly younger ages, often shaped by bullying, violence, and lack of guidance. That experience revealed a critical need for early intervention.

After being exonerated in December 2020, he turned that experience into purpose by establishing this organization to support youth and young adults facing similar challenges.

We focus on empowering students impacted by bullying and gun violence by providing resources, mentorship, and access to education. Through our scholarship program, we help ease the financial burden of college covering essentials like tuition, books, and basic needs so students can focus on building a better future.

But our work goes beyond financial support. We are committed to promoting critical thinking, conflict resolution, and community leadership—equipping the next generation with the tools to overcome adversity and create lasting change.

Our vision is to expand this effort over the next 2 to 5 years, increasing scholarship opportunities and reaching more students who are determined to succeed and give back to their communities.

• Students face trauma, instability, and financial hardship
•  Many lack support systems to pursue college
• These barriers reduce access to higher education

“Too many capable students are held back by circumstances beyond their control.”

We provide:

• $1,000 scholarships
• Recognition of resilience
•  A pathway to higher education

• Incoming college freshmen
•  300-word essay
• 20 students funded in Year 1
• Community-based selection process

Each $1,000:

•  Helps cover tuition, books, housing
•  Reduces financial stress
• Encourages long-term success

Raise $20,000+

Fund 20 students

Build a scalable annual program

Sponsors receive:

•  Community recognition
• Brand visibility
•  Social impact alignment

•  $1,000 -Sponsor one student
•  $5,000 -Community Sponsor
•  $10,000+ - Lead Sponsor

• Social media features
• Logo on materials
• Community announcements
• Website placement