News & Stories

Leveling Up Literacy: How 97% of Youth Beat the Summer Slide with LifeSTEPS

Leveling Up Literacy: How 97% of Youth Beat the Summer Slide with LifeSTEPS
Each summer, students face the risk of losing important reading skills during the long break from school, a challenge known as the summer slide. This learning loss is especially common in low-income communities, and over time, it can create serious obstacles to academic success. That is why LifeSTEPS administers Big Fun in the Sun, an eight-week summer reading program designed to keep youth engaged and on track.

LifeSTEPS Provides Over 2,000 Youth with Backpacks Filled with School Supplies

More than 2,000 youth enrolled in LifeSTEPS’ After School Program started this school year with confidence thanks to brand new backpacks filled with essential school supplies provided by LifeSTEPS.

Investing in Bright Futures: Celebrating LifeSTEPS Fall 2025 Scholarship Recipients

In August, LifeSTEPS proudly awarded $131,279 in scholarships to 44 deserving residents through the JB Brown Fund and the Patrick R. Sabelhaus Fund. These scholarships not only provide financial support, but also open doors to opportunity, stability, and long-term success for residents pursuing higher education.

LifeSTEPS Health & Housing Program and Samuel Merritt Nursing Students Support Seniors Age in Place

Spring 2025 Program Update: Supporting Senior Wellness Through Student Nurse Partnerships This spring, LifeSTEPS Health and Housing Program (formerly the RN Coaching Program) partnered with 17 nursing students from Samuel Merritt University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Through a 10-week clinical rotation, these students brought free, on-site medical support and wellness education directly […]

Beth Southorn Represents LifeSTEPS at the 2025 Affordable Housing Symposium in Washington, D.C.

On June 4–5, 2025, LifeSTEPS Executive Director Beth Southorn joined housing leaders and advocates from across the country in Washington, D.C., for the Affordable Housing Symposium, co-hosted by the Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition (AHTCC) and the Housing Advisory Group. The two-day event brought together Members of Congress, industry experts, and housing professionals to focus […]

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Affordable Housing Options Every Single Mom Should Know

Explore affordable housing for single moms—find programs, eligibility tips, and application steps to secure stable, safe housing.

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Retire in Style: Exploring Thousand Oaks’ Top Communities

Discover the best retirement communities in thousand oaks ca—compare options, amenities, costs, and start your next chapter in style!

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How to Become a Financial Literacy Expert, Starting from Scratch

Master financial literacy training from scratch. Build lifelong money skills, set goals, and boost confidence with expert tips and free tools.

Finding Community and Confidence: How LifeSTEPS’ After School Program Helped Corbin Thrive

For Corbin*, life at Rosefield Village once felt isolating. He and his family faced daily challenges that left them feeling disconnected from their neighbors and community. But everything began to change when Corbin discovered the LifeSTEPS After School Program (ASP) led by Trevor, the site’s Director of Social Services and Program Coordinator. Trevor’s warm and […]