2022 The Elder Project is launched!

Native youth and Elders interviews helping to make connections and preserve culture.

How did STEP start?

  • Founded in 2014 in Olympia, WA with 12 teens and elders.
  • Inspired by Squaxin Island First Salmon Ceremony
  • STEP UP launched in 2019, Victoria, BC, Canada
  • STEP TWO - The Woman Only began 2018
  • Programs of Distinction Award -Generations United
  • STEP presentation to legislature and
  • International Intergenerational Conference - 2019.
  • Celebrating 2 years of virtual meetings.
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What do you do at STEP?

2016

STEP Gathering Rituals:

  • Physically "step in" to be present.
  • Give thanks to our ancestors.
  • Honor First Nation Land and Labor Acknowledgment.
  • Center together with 3 deep breaths.
  • Hold silence to send love.
  • Topic specific discussion as a group and in breakouts.
  • Harvest reflections and celebrations
  • Send off with a joke, live song, and energy activity.
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STEP never stopped during Covid!  Zoom allowed alumni and new participants from around the world to continue our good connecting work.