Second Story

Please mark your calendar and help spread the word about our annual fundraiser. It's our only major fundraising event of the year, and it's critical to helping us ensure our programs remain open and running uninterrupted for local youth and families! The passionate, brave youth in our programs inspired this year's theme: Empowered Youth Power Communities. By empowering youth, listening to their perspectives, amplifying their voices, and understanding the value of their experiences, we can better assist communities in overcoming challenges like homelessness, food insecurity, mental health struggles, violence, drugs, and more. Every one of us can play a role. If you'd like to help support the event, contact [email protected].

We're looking for volunteers! Join us for a yard clean-up and make a big difference for the lives of young mothers. Help transform our yard as we pick up trash, pull weeds, and rake leaves in preparation for the new season! For more information or if you are interested, please contact [email protected]

Help us spread the word about our Beacon of Hope Fundraiser. Becoming a Table Host is a wonderful opportunity to bring friends, family, and colleagues together to support something you are passionate about. As a Table Host, your responsibilities are simple but crucial: 1️⃣ Gather ten people (including yourself) to fill your table. 2️⃣ Register your guests. 3️⃣ Follow up to ensure everyone is ready and excited for the event on October 23! Your support helps us create a memorable and impactful experience for all attendees. Ready to make a difference? Join us as a Table Host and be a part of something special by emailing [email protected]

Our Springfield Safe Youth Project (SSYP) recently took an exciting field trip to Mason Neck State Park! 🌳 Our young people had a fun time with Supervisor Rodney Lusk exploring the park and learning about the different trees, fruits, and leaves in this area. Experiences like these not only connect them with nature but also provide them a break from the personal challenges of their daily lives. Consider learning more about our programs by attending an Open Door information session: https://buff.ly/3AMmeRf

We are thrilled to announce that Mickey Skelton has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Second Story! 🎉 Mickey joined us in 2020 as Vice President of Operations, bringing nearly three decades of experience in management consulting across both the private and public sectors. Please join us in congratulating Mickey on her well-deserved promotion! We are excited to see the continued positive impact she will have on Second Story and the communities we serve! Read more: https://buff.ly/3yW0ce4

Recently, Second Story’s Youth Council shared their perspectives on the current opioid epidemic through art projects. Their exhibit was on display at Woodrow Wilson Library and caught the attention of local news media. The Youth Council, comprised of courageous seventh- to twelfth-grade student leaders from the Bailey’s Crossroads area, uses their lived experiences to advocate for change in their communities. These young leaders serve as role models for their peers in the Culmore area, where many youth face significant challenges from drugs, gangs, trafficking, and other safety threats. Read more and view some examples of their powerful art in the story linked below:

Today is National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day. Fentanyl is now the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18-45. Substance abuse is a growing concern among our local youth, and education is key to prevention. Through prevention programs, support services, and community outreach, we are working to keep our young people safe and informed. Learn more about the risks, warning signs, and how to support teens in making healthier choices. Our Learning Series is packed with valuable insights about the current situation and how to equip yourself and your loved ones with tools and resources: https://buff.ly/46N1mVN

Please mark your calendar and help spread the word about our annual fundraiser—our only major fundraising event of the year. It's critical to ensuring our programs remain open and running uninterrupted for local youth and families. You can make a difference by sponsoring our 2024 Beacon of Hope Breakfast. By empowering youth, amplifying their voices, and understanding the value of their experiences, we can better assist communities in overcoming challenges like homelessness, food insecurity, mental health struggles, violence, drugs, and more. Not ready to sponsor? Help spread the word by becoming a Table Host! Learn more by emailing [email protected]

Come join us for our next Open Door In-Person Session on Tuesday, August 20 🚪 Open Door Information Sessions are not fundraising events, rather they are opportunities for us to tell you more about our programs ❤️ If you choose to attend an in-person session, you can expect to get a glimpse into our Second Story for Teens in Crisis program! You can expect to hear from leadership and staff, learn about issues faced by youth experiencing homelessness and other crises, right here in Fairfax County, and see how our programs are helping our community. Register: https://buff.ly/3M3E98h

More than 2,000 Fairfax County Public School students were identified as experiencing homelessness last year, and the real numbers may be even higher. You can make a difference by sponsoring our 2024 Beacon of Hope Breakfast. It's our only major fundraising event of the year, and it's critical to helping us ensure our programs remain open and running uninterrupted for local youth and families. 🌟 Title Sponsor: Provide 1,095 days of rental assistance for homeless high school students. 🌟 Visionary Leader Sponsor: Give 10 teens in crisis a warm bed, food, and care for four nights each. 🌟 Mission Ambassador Sponsor: Offer 200 counseling sessions to children and teens in after-school programs. 🌟 Helping Hands Sponsor: Provide food for ten young mothers and their children for two weeks. Learn more by emailing [email protected]