Media Contact:
Leeanna Varga
The Second Step
lvarga@thesecondstep.org
(617) 965-2026

The Second Step Completes $3 Million Capital Campaign


Newton, MA., June 12, 2003 -- The Second Step, a Newton-based transitional program for battered women and their children, has successfully completed a $3 million capital campaign. A champagne and dessert reception will be held on Thursday, June 12 from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. at Mount Ida College to celebrate the end of the campaign as well as to honor and recognize donors and volunteers.

Despite the flagging economy, $1.1 million of the total amount was raised from more than 200 individuals, foundations, and corporations in the private sector. Major donors include the Charlesbank Homes Foundation, the Carlisle Foundation, The Gillette Corporation, Salomon Smith Barney, the Tudor Foundation, KeySpan Energy Delivery, and The State Street Corporation. “We are overwhelmed by the generosity of the community,” said Liz Kirsch, The Second Step Executive Director. “We are thrilled that so many donors and volunteers stepped forward to make it possible for us to reach this outstanding goal.”

Funds raised helped double residential capacity and expand existing programs. A new home was renovated with funds raised in the campaign and opened in December 2002, increasing The Second Step’s residential capacity to 45 women and chilren. Other campaign goals include the establishment of a women’s resource center to offer outreach services to survivors of domestic violence living in the western suburbs.

About The Second Step:
Founded in 1992, The Second Step is a private, nonprofit organization that provides long-term transitional services to survivors of domestic abuse and their children. Its mission is to help women develop life and job skills that enable them to make a successful transition to independent living. The agency is funded through federal, state, and local grants as well as donations from individuals, corporations, foundations, and community organizations. More information about the agency can be found at www.thesecondstep.org.