The gift you give today has the ability to change a future forever. Read through the letter from Founder & CEO, Krista Linden, and have the opportunity to give a gift at the bottom of the page.

Dear Step By Step Family,

As the year draws to a close, we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible impact we’ve made together in the lives of mothers, babies, and families in our community. Every time we step into the homes and lives of the moms we serve, it marks the beginning of an incredible journey. Because of your support, we can walk alongside them during one of the most beautiful and often the most challenging moments of their lives.

One story that brings this impact to life is that of Taije, a young mom who came to Step By Step during one of the most overwhelming seasons of her life. At just 19, Taije discovered she was almost four months pregnant, facing not only the surprise of impending motherhood but also a high-risk pregnancy. During her 20-week checkup, doctors gave her terrifying news — she was already dilating. In the difficult weeks that followed, Taije grew dangerously ill, losing 35 pounds in just one month. Fearing for her health, friends and family urged her to consider giving up her baby. But Taije held onto hope and pressed forward, determined to give her child a chance at life. Her daughter arrived early at 28 weeks, weighing just 2lbs, 11oz — small but strong, a symbol of Taije’s resilience and courage.

After her daughter’s arrival, Taije’s world felt overwhelming as she navigated health insurance, endless hospital paperwork, and trying to secure basic needs like housing, furniture and food. Thankfully, her Step By Step case manager, Shannon, was with her every step of the way. Shannon provided guidance, practical support, and encouragement. Shannon even visited her in the NICU bringing clothing, blankets, and other baby essentials to help care for her newborn daughter.

But the support for Taije didn’t stop there. Recognizing Taije’s drive and vision, Shannon referred her to our Dreams Work Job Training Program. Over the next 16 weeks, she learned essential job skills, communication, parenting, and more— all while gaining practical work experience at Farm 12 Restaurant. This experience helped her gain confidence and reignited her lifelong dream of becoming an interior designer. With encouragement from her Dreams Work team, she took her first step toward this goal by working to complete her high school diploma. Today, Taije is enrolled at Clover Park Technical College and continues to work at Farm 12. She is moving steadily toward pursuing her dreams while also embracing her role as a dedicated mother.

Reflecting on how motherhood has transformed her, Taije shared, “Becoming a mom pushed me to work harder, to stay motivated, and to stay on top of my responsibilities… my daughter made me the woman I am today. She inspires me to be better, to set bigger goals, and to reach beyond what I ever imagined for myself.” Yet, as Taije expressed, this journey would not have been possible without the community that “made room for me”— a community that includes caring supporters like you.

As we look to the coming year, we invite you to be part of more life-changing stories like Taije’s. Will you give a gift this season to ensure that moms receive the compassion, guidance, and support they need to embrace motherhood and achieve their dreams? Thank you for standing with us in this vital work, and for helping make our community a place where every family has the chance to flourish.

With Gratitude,

Krista Linden

Founder & Executive Director