News from STEP

March - 2010

Greetings!

This is always such an exiting time of year. Though I'm one who has thoroughly enjoyed this remarkable winter (no hate mail, please), I'm now re-energized by the warm sun, longer days and the new life all around. This awakening always amazes me, as it seems to move from struggling bud to full bloom, almost without observation - God just does it!

Over the last several weeks it has been this way in the work here at STEP, and I am so privileged to watch it happen. I've been encouraged in seeing things fall into place; seeds planted are beginning to bloom. When I last wrote, I had more questions about our summer ministries than answers. Since then a VBS director has emerged, G.I. Jesus Boot Camp dates have been solidified (see update below), Spring Run Presbyterian has committed to an Urban Immersion week of ministry, and we are talking with two other congregations who are interested in providing leadership/partnership to the Back to School celebration. God is indeed bringing it all together!

There is still much to be done and lots of help needed this summer. One unique opportunity is for college students interested in serving as summer interns with STEP. We hope to find at least 2 interns to assist in the development and implementation of summer programs. If you are interested in this or any of the opportunities listed below, we encourage you to contact us and let us help you get connected to life giving ministry this summer.

Blessings,

Tim

Thanks, Theatre IV

Our sincere thanks to Theatre IV for donating tickets to STEP to use during Theatre IV's Tickets for Kids Program. Twenty-six children from the Gilpin community were accompanied by Della Wilson and some of the childrens' parents to see "Mulan" and "Buffalo Soldier." They will see "The Sound of Music" in May. The children have thoroughly enjoyed these plays.

In This Issue

Thanks, Theatre IV

STEP's Calendar

Playing With A Purpose Thank You

Financial Partnership

Quick Links

STEP's Website

Join our Mailing List!

2010 Calendar of Opportunities

All of STEP's ministries require volunteers as well as funds. Below are several ways you can volunteer your time and talents with STEP. For details, call us at 804-648-7552.

MINISTRY
OPPORTUNITY	DATES/TIMES	CURRENT NEEDS
*Summer Internship*	June 1 through August 15	STEP is seeking interns to provide
		leadership to our summer ministries.
*Victory Reading Program*	Tues & Thurs 4 - 6 pm	Reading Tutors/Mentors/Helpers
	School Year
*Mom's Fellowship* (luncheon)	3rd Thursday monthly	Group/Individuals to facilitate fun
Women from Gilpin Court	11 am - 1 pm	activity (i.e., craft) and/or prepare meal
*Summer Enrichment -*	Tues through Thurs	Transportation, Mentors, Professionals
(including Jobs for Life)	3 - 6 pm	(to share about your career),
Pre-k through 11th grade	June 22 - July 22	Activity Leaders
*Urban Immersion*	Select Dates - Summer	This opportunity is open to groups
Urban Mission Experience		desiring an urban mission experience.
*VBS*	July 12 - 16	Arts & Crafts, Recreation,
7-11 years old	3 - 6 pm	Bible Story Leaders &
		Group Shepherds
G.I. Jesus Boot Camp	UPDATED DATES!	Camp Counselors and Counselors in
(overnight) 7-11 years old	August 11 - 15	Training, Arts and Crafts Leaders
*Back To School Celebration*	August 21
(school supplies)
*Fall Family Festival*	October 31
(Halloween alternative)
*Pride For Parents*	December 4
*Christmas Store*

Playing With A Purpose "Thank You"

Playing With A Purpose is a program designed for parents or grandparents and their children (2-6 years). The goal is to model a healthy relationship between parent and child in an organized playgroup setting and to demonstrate to parents that playing with their children can set them up for success in school and in life.

The following is an excerpt from a "thank you" to STEP from Kirby Worthington (child development specialist and Director of Playing With A Purpose).

"When God gave Jackie Bolt and me the same vision and passion to use the gifts and training He had given us to try to make a difference for children and parents living in poverty, STEP gave us a much needed jump start. Friends at STEP met with us and advised us. They coordinated with Eternity Church and Victory Life Fellowship who allowed us to use their facilities. They helped us with food, distribution of fliers and even picking up participants. STEP supported us through our first 3 sessions and opened the door for us to later do a group at the Calhoun Center. (Tim even drove me to the first meeting so I could find it!)"

"STEP also introduced us to Youth Life Foundation, where we held a session. Playing With A Purpose is now back at the Calhoun Center partnering with the Department of Recreation and Parks."

"Thank you STEP for your part in hlping Playing With A Purpose get off the ground!"

Partnering Financially With STEP

There are several ways to partner with STEP:

Mail support to STEP at: 1900 Chamberlayne Avenue, Richmond, VA 23222
Pay Pal

Corporate Matching Gifts (such as Philip Morris, Altria and Dominion Resources, to name a few. Check with your employer to see if a matching gifts program is offered.
United Way - Agency # 3171
CVC (Combined Virginia Campaign) - Agency # 3280
CFC (Central VA Area Combined Federal Campaign) - Agency # 8649