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Student StepUp
Transending and Transforming Lives Through Coaching, Mentorship & Technology
Student StepUp is a youth-driven organization on a mission to equip young people with the skills, support, and confidence to succeed in school and beyond, envisioning a world where youth from all backgrounds have the tools to thrive in the digital age.
Our Name, Our Mission
What Does S.T.E.P.U.P. Stand For?
Our name is more than an acronym, it's a declaration of purpose. S.T.E.P.U.P. stands for Strengthening Tech-Talent, Education, Purposefully & Uplifting Participation. Every word reflects our commitment to innovative learning and inclusive community empowerment. We don't just teach skills, we build futures, one young person at a time.
Strengthening
Building resilient, capable young people ready for the challenges ahead.
Tech-Talent
Developing digital fluency and technical skills for the modern workforce.
Education
Centering learning as the foundation of every program and initiative.
Purposefully & Uplifting Participation
Ensuring every voice is heard and every student has a seat at the table.
Our Story
Built for Every Student
Student StepUp was founded in 2015 by a passionate group of educators and college students in Brooklyn, New York. The organization emerged as a direct response to a pressing reality: students were struggling in school, and college youth were eager to step up and make a meaningful difference in their communities.
What started as a grassroots effort has grown into a structured, impactful organization. Student StepUp remains rooted in the belief that the most powerful change agents for young people are often other young people, those who have walked the same hallways, faced the same challenges, and found a way through.
From Spark to Structure
1
Founded
Established in 2015 by educators and college students in Brooklyn, NY.
2
The Spark
A response to students struggling academically and college youth eager to make a difference.
3
The Growth
From a grassroots initiative to a structured youth empowerment organization with lasting impact.
Our Approach
The Near-Peer Model: Relatable Role Models, Real Results
Near-Peer Philosophy
College and high school students coach younger peers as relatable, trusted role models. Our coaches also support small businesses and nonprofits lacking tech access, extending impact beyond the classroom.
Technology-Powered Training
We leverage cutting-edge tools — including virtual reality learning — to train coaches in communication, edtech, and innovation. Founder Greg Paul leads with a youth-first philosophy, backed by educators and tech innovators.
Connect
Linking students to mentors, resources, and community networks that foster growth and belonging.
Coach
Guiding youth through academic pursuits, personal development, and career challenges.
Create
Opening doors to higher education, credentials, and careers in the digital age.
Change
Empowering students to achieve their full potential and contribute positively to their communities.
"At Student StepUp, our philosophy is encapsulated in four powerful actions that drive every program and initiative." — Gregory Paul, CEO