Team

Termaine J. Hicks

Life has a way of making lemons into lemonade. The challenges I have faced throughout my life has exposed me to similar situations our youth are facing today. Most people can’t identify with their pain; I can. As a survivor of gun violence and watching peers be bullied, I’ve made it my life mission to bring awareness to how important it is for individuals to S.T.E.P.U.P.!

Through the creation of visual reenactments, we begin to help children of all ages engage in developing conflict resolution skills. Empowered youth can begin identifying with the characters, become actively engaged, in activities and create strategies to proactively problem solve, whether its’ bullying, violence, or challenges with peers. 

I attained certification in Child Abuse History from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. I volunteer at the Juvenile Justice Center and I am a  national speaker against violence and bullying.

 Melissa Brooks  

A community organizer, and leadership development, with more than ten years of experience in the field of Education working with culturally diverse families as a Family Advocate, I assisted with job placement, childcare, and housing within the community. 

My role with STEPUP primary point of contact for marketing, sales and distribution of STEPUP© merchandise, planning, and scheduling. Serves as co-facilitator, oversees participants' interactions, provides clarity, and prioritizes conversations while observing group dynamics and support to participants.Responsible for overseeing all facets of the organization, fundraising, operations, and engagement with the board of directors.

As a parent, it is vital becoming part of the solution rather than the problem. Through my work with S.T.E.P.U.P. I am committed to making an effective change to help curb gun violence and bullying among youth and adults. 

Helping youth gain skills today to be the leaders of tomorrow.

 Tyron McClendon

Balancing my role as Director at STEPUP and a father  of six children requires excellent time management and organizational skills to juggle both responsibilities effectively.

"Never, never be afraid to do what’s right, especially if the well-being of a person or animal is at stake. Society’s punishments are small compared to the wounds we inflict on our soul when we look the other way.”-MLK

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 Darnell Blow

A pastor of Temple Of Christ Jesus Fellowship for the past 12 years. I am the Director of our Prostate Cancer support group and we also have a grief support group along with the positive Christian couples ministry, I also oversee our clothing drive which we have quarterly for the community. M role at STEPUP allows the right mix of talent, tools, and resources to implement STEPUP programs effectively.