The Story Continues (Baby Steps Annual Campaign Case for Support)
oughly one-in-five college students are parenting a child while working to earn their degrees. On campuses and in communities across the nation Student-Moms continue to be overlooked, isolated, unsupported, and are in danger of being defined by their circumstances.
Financial struggles and time limitations frequently force Student-Moms to choose between their education and their baby. All too often, the decision to parent in college leads to drop-outs, delayed degree completion, and interruptions in their education. The impact of an incomplete education has lasting effects that ripple across generations.
The Baby Steps Story
Over 30 years ago Founders, Matt and Michelle Schultz found themselves facing an unplanned pregnancy at Auburn University. Michelle (Auburn Hub Executive Director) felt finishing her degree and having her baby was impossible. So, she made the decision to terminate her pregnancy.
As years went by, they realized the impact this had on their lives. They began sharing their story, and their eyes were opened to an overlooked population in desperate need of support.
In 2013, Michelle met Kaitlyn Willing (Co-Founder and COO) who shared that as a Junior at Auburn University, she experienced her own unplanned pregnancy. The lack of support made graduating almost impossible. Kaitlyn affirmed the concept and helped build the organization by providing unique insight into what life was like as a Student-Mom.
The Power to Empower
Everyday, there are college students who discover they are facing an unplanned pregnancy, and their universities often lack the resources to support them. Communities across the country are contacting Baby Steps to learn how best to serve these Student-Moms.
The Next Step:
In response, Baby Steps made the decision to link arms with institutions and establish Hubs throughout the region and nation.
The Hub Phases
The inquiry phase begins when a community expresses interest in bringing Baby Steps locally and explores what expansion could involve. This informal step marks the starting point before formal Hub development
Infant
There are people in the community showing significant interest and having preliminary conversations with Baby Steps staff.
Crawler
Official Baby Steps Staff or Planters are actively fundraising to be able to open their doors and begin serving Student-Moms.
Walker
The Hub is up and running, and Student-Moms are being empowered with housing, community, and support.
Three Pillars of
Baby Steps provides a comprehensive range of resources that address every aspect of being both a student and a mother.
Through Baby Steps, Student-Moms have access to housing, community, and support. Baby Steps’s unique focus has been and continues to be supporting at-risk, historically underserved Student-Moms.
When Baby Steps lends a hand, we can change the story for Student-Moms.
Support:
Housing:
• Fully furnished house
• Utilities & internet
• Groceries & meals
• 24/7 access to on-site staff
Community:
• Milestone celebrations
• Enrichment Events for personal education & development
• Baby Steps On-Campus Student Organization
• Unplanned & Untold podcast
Support:
• Professional childcare tuition
• On campus advocacy
• Access to medical & legal professionals
• Professional counseling
• Academic advising & tutoring
• Scholarship & grant assistance
• Baby supplies
Your gift makes sure the next chapter in the story of a Student-Mom’s education is written.
“I choose to give to Baby Steps because I’ve watched it grow from a simple idea into a remarkable organization that is truly changing lives. My donations don’t just help Student-Moms and babies; they change the trajectory of lives for generations to come. The impact of Baby Steps doesn’t end with one generationit creates new opportunities and a lasting ripple effect that will have lasting benefits.
It is my hope that Baby Steps will continue to grow to other areas of the country, and that this is only the beginning.”
– Michael DiChiara
One Student-Mom’s Story
Where Baby Steps Hubs are at work, we see positive outcomes and impacts on campus. The culture is changing around the support for pregnant and parenting students. Together, with communities and donors like you, we make a difference.
“Baby Steps empowers student-moms to stay enrolled and complete their degrees by removing barriers like childcare, housing, and lack of support. With these obstacles lifted, Student-Moms can focus on their education and future. The program strengthens campus culture through understanding and compassion, helping student-moms feel seen, supported, and equipped for long-term success as both parents and scholars.”
–Leigh Terry
The University of Alabama, Associate Professor in Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering
“I think the biggest step that changed my pathway in my college journey was when I found Baby Steps. It was so hard trying to navigate motherhood and being a student at the same time. Once I got plugged in with Baby Steps, it really seemed like lights started to turn on and doors started to open whether it be friendships or resources or classes, and it really made all the difference.”
–Abby Turkia Baby Steps Alumni, Bachelor of Science
Business Administration
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You're Invited to be Part of the Story
The story continues because of you. Join a Giving Circle and make a difference today and for generations to come.
Levels of Giving:
Ambassador Circle
Monthly Giving
Provides reliable, year-round support for StudentMoms and their babies
Empowerment Circle
$5,000+ annually
Offers housing, childcare, and academic resources that help Student-Moms succeed
Legacy Circle
$10,000+ annually
Strengthens programs and expands lasting impact through vital resources for Student-Moms
Heritage Circle
Planned Giving
Creates lasting support for Student-Moms and future generations through naming Baby Steps in a will or as a beneficiary
Baby Steps Alumni Circle
Former Student-Moms
Extends hope and community by giving back to the mission that once supported them
