Steppin From Boys to Men and Girls to Ladies Youth Program.

Steppin For Boys To Men Girls To Ladies is organizing this fundraiser.

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Blessings, my name is Big Tony! Owens. Growing up in the heart of Chicago's South Side, "Low End," life was anything but easy. The streets were unforgiving, a dangerous world of gangs, drugs, and violence. I knew all too well the pull of the streets, a path many of my friends followed. But I wanted something different. I wanted more than what the streets could offer.

The after-school spot, "The Shelter House," was where I discovered my potential. With the support of mentors, I learned the importance of hard work, discipline, and self-respect. I was interested in the arts, sports, dancing, weightlifting, business, reading, and creativity.

The Shelter House provided youth with structure and a safe environment that supported academic development, fostered social skills, encouraged healthy activities, and reduced the risk of negative behaviors during crucial after-school hours. Essentially, it helped me graduate with honors from grammar school and high school, providing opportunities for higher learning, personal growth, and positive social interaction beyond the classroom.

Years later, as a young adult, I knew I wanted to give back. I founded the "Steppin' from Boys to Men and Girls to Ladies" Youth Program. This program is a beacon of hope, designed to guide young people away from the dangers of the streets and toward a brighter future, just as I was.

"Steppin' from Boys to Men and Girls to Ladies" is open to all, empowering youth ages 5–15 and 16–20 and beyond through Chicago Steppin', an internationally recognized social ballroom dance. It's about keeping youth safe—it's about helping them grow, learn, and become their best selves. The program offers mentorship, dance classes (Steppin', Hip-Hop, Urban), group classes, academic support, money management and entrepreneurship training, and life skills training, including learning about today's technology: AI, computers, and media such as podcasting and IT, and more.

My vision is to provide a supportive environment where young people can thrive, just as I once did, in this ever-changing world, to become productive leaders. Don't just become a consumer, but own your life. Don't chase money; let money chase you. Travel the world. Not just to leave a legacy, but to live a legacy. Understand what it means to be blessed and help others by giving back.

Today, I live in Las Vegas. I am a successful businessman, an entrepreneur with multiple online businesses, a website builder, a graphic designer, a Chicago Steppin' instructor, an event promoter, and a real estate and money management coach with over 30 years of experience.

To make this vision a reality, we need your help. The program is ready, and many young people need guidance and support. With your donation, you can make a direct impact on the lives of these youth by helping us:

Purchase a Passenger Van: Transportation is crucial. A van will allow us to safely transport participants to and from events, workshops, and community outreach activities.
Rent a Dance Studio: Until we can secure our own building, renting a studio is essential for providing a dedicated space where youth can practice, learn, and grow in a supportive environment.
Provide T-shirts for the Youth: A simple t-shirt can foster a sense of belonging and pride, creating a unified group identity that encourages teamwork and confidence.
Fund Promotional Materials: To reach more kids, we need to invest in promotional materials to spread the word and connect with more families and communities.
Secure Equipment for Workshops and Activities: From dance classes to leadership training, having the right equipment is vital for delivering high-quality, engaging, and inspiring experiences.
Support Mentorship and Leadership Training Programs: Your donation can help fund mentorship programs that provide one-on-one guidance and leadership training to empower young people to become role models.
Cover Costs for Community Outreach Events: Outreach events are key to connecting with new participants and building relationships within the community. Donations will help cover the costs of organizing these events.
Create Scholarships for Participants Facing Financial Hardship: Financial barriers should never prevent a young person from participating. Your support can help create scholarships for those who need it most.

Your generosity is vital in ensuring this program remains free for all youth. Together, we can create lasting positive change. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference.

Now more good news! We're excited to announce the launch of our SFB2MG2L West Africa, Ghana youth program! This is a major step in our goal to expand "Steppin' from Boys to Men and Girls to Ladies" to more communities around the world.

Thank you for your generosity and support.

Big Tony! Owens

Founder, President, and Instructor in Las Vegas, NV