During the month of February the Effie Yeaw Nature Center visited LifeSTEPS After School Programs in the Sacramento area. Their knowledgeable staff brought in props, such as animal skulls, snake skin shreddings, and even live animals! The students were taught about the local animals that are native to the Sacramento area. Each lesson was focused around different places you would find these animals, like the local rivers or woods.

Not only were these students learning about their environment, but they were truly enjoying the activities. LifeSTEPS is grateful for the Effie Yeaw Nature Center and their wonderful employees for coming to our communities to teach youth about the biological life that can be found all around us!

 Click here to learn more about the Nature Center or visit them Tuesday through Sunday 9am-5pm at 2850 San Lorenzo Way in Carmichael, CA 95608.

LifeSTEPS Director of Social Services, Milly Quesada from the South Bay, did the necessary outreach to ensure that many children in need would receive a really cool Christmas present. Through her efforts LifeSTEPS was awarded 26 bikes, valued at more than $3600, from Turning Wheels for Kids. Each bike was equipped with a helmet and lock to ensure safety and security for our youth.

Youth living in affordable housing communities in the Bay Area where LifeSTEPS services are available were selected to receive these brand new bikes. TWFK is committed to providing bikes at the holiday and throughout the year through a number of partnerships focused on preventing childhood obesity and supporting low-income families.

These young ladies at HACSC Clarendon Street Apartments were delighted to receive their new bikes. Both come from families with limited means to provide Christmas presents. Each of their parents had inquired early in the season about accessing programs for families in need so their children would have gifts. When the opportunity from TWFK presented itself, their LifeSTEPS Social Worker immediately thought of these two worthy candidates.

You can imagine the joy these gifts brought; not just to the recipients but their mothers as well. These special gifts made this a Christmas to remember for many families throughout the Bay Region.

These Clarendon Street residents are active community members. The moms attend education classes where they are learning parenting skills, money management and healthy lifestyle choices. As well they serve as volunteers. The youth attend events and are quick to help with set up and cleanup. They also have benefited from the LifeSTEPS After School Program where they are learning social skills, making new friends, and receiving homework assistance. LifeSTEPS programs are designed to equip residents for success and to live their best possible life.

Thank you to Turning Wheels for Kids for helping LifeSTEPS bring holiday joy to families throughout the Bay Area!