S.T.E.P. Up 4 Kids is a nonprofit charitable foundation committed to supporting
children and teens with early-onset bipolar disorder, depression and related
spectrum disorders. The organization’s fundamental objective is to provide
reliable resources to parents, teachers, medical professionals and counselors
to be best equipped to advocate for children with these disorders. Founded by
Kelley Kupfer, a registered nurse and parent of a bipolar child, and Mary Ann
McDonnell, APRN, BC, a nationally-recognized researcher and nurse practitioner
specializing in pediatric psychopharmacology and behavioral therapy, S.T.E.P.
Up 4 Kid’s mission is inherent in the name, to:
Support Teach Educate Prevent
We support by providing
free resources, as well as an organizational model
for support groups around the country. Parents learn
from each other. Support groups are a safe place where
those faced with the disorder can share information
and know they aren’t alone.
We help treat by offering informative
seminars around the country for parents, families,
mental health professionals and educators. These seminars
bring together top researchers and clinicians to discuss
the latest research, as well as options for successful
treatment.
We educate by continuously sharing
relevant information on children’s mental health
issues. A knowledgeable parent is an empowered parent.
By being informed and remaining vigilant to find treatment,
you can help medical professionals diagnose and treat
your child properly.
We help prevent family and medical
crisesby providing vital support to
manage the many challenges of these disorders. In addition,
we promote public awareness to decrease stigma and
help the general public recognize and understand how
to work and live with children affected with mental
disorder.
