In 1997 the Augsburg College StepUP Program was created to address the special needs of students in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. At that time, the resources for recovering college students were extremely limited. The original plan for the StepUP Program included chemical free housing, a minimum sobriety requirement, weekly individual meetings with staff, a contract calling for standards of behavior, and a weekly community meeting.
During the course of that first year, 36 students enrolled for at least part of a semester. The needs of these students were served by two staff members. Many of these students were starting from "ground zero" in terms of study skills, but with individualized attention and referral to academic support, most were able to transition successfully.
Over the years, the basic structure of StepUP has remained the same as the program has gained stability and strength. A major development was the establishment of the StepUP government comprised of students selected by staff and a staff facilitator. The two major branches of StepUP government are the Governing Board and the Review Board. The duties of the Governing Board are to review the relevance of the contract and recommend necessary changes. The Governing Board also plans several StepUP retreats throughout the year. The Review Board is responsible for enforcing the contract by ruling on student violations.
As of the end of the 06-07 school year, StepUP has served the needs of 342 students. Four full-time staff members have contact with the students on a daily basis. The program has graduated hundreds of students to become useful members of society and serve in a myriad of professional capacities.
The beginning of the 2007-08 school year marks a milestone in the history of StepUP as offices and living quarters move to a new home in the Oren Gateway Center. The new space will allow the program to serve a significantly larger number of students. The addition of apartment style living will encourage students to participate in StepUP for longer periods of time and to progress into mentor and leadership roles with younger students.
Great things lie ahead for StepUP. Watch us grow!