Ronald E. Smith
Executive Director/Founder
Ronald E Smith grew up in a strict home surrounded by his parents and strong influencers. His father, growing up in America’s depression (1920s-30s) was a stern man, abusive at times, and stuck firmly to the rules. His mother was the opposite, showing true kindness, love, showering him with plenty of joy. Although there were times of trouble, Ron knew the importance of a Father in the home. He taught me that you must obey the rules. This motivated Ron to give over 10 years of his life and career as a mentor with YWCA, spending quality time with young boys/girls who needed strong examples and leadership.
Ron, widowed, has two grown children and has worked in the Library System of America for 25 years. He is passionate about health, which keeps him in the gym, as well as sports, concerts, pool, bowling, and an occasional movie or two. His Passion for educating and mentoring the next generation can be seen in his everyday lifestyle. He truly wants you to Step Up from Where You Are!
“I am passionate about this place where we can open the dialog and hear what others have to say. The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 4:15, There are many men but not enough Fathers. Our goal is to break the cycle of ignorance and abuse in our communities. Some would say nothing has changed, but it’s happening all around us! Our kids more than ever are losing their way in education, their social views, political views, and spiritual views. We need Fathers in the local communities to help guide and direct our youth and young adults to be better. We need better citizens, better workers, better friends, better children, we need young leaders to be BETTER. It takes a strong man to stand up and say what is right and wrong.”
Ronald and his team are looking forward to embarking on a journey of dialog and candor. This place of gathering will bring a voice to communities whom many in this world have forgotten. What a blessing to come together and beside other men who are trying to share the lost truths and carry a mantle for the next generation. Prayerfully, YOU WILL JOIN THE MOVEMENT?
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India Somer
India Somer grew up in a home filled with love and lots of family. There were 8 full time members and a hand full of rotating cousins, brothers, aunts, and sisters who kept the household surviving. Her development as a teen living on Bluff Street, in her town by the water was tough, real tough. She saw a total of 6 schools in her youth and did not know her Father yet was surrounded by people who truly wanted her success. Fast forward to the age of 20, India currently works in Annapolis, MD area as a supervisor, just starting her career in both her professional life and her ministry.
She is really into Music, nature, helping others, and the beauty of nature.
“As I continue my growth as a woman, I seek peace, love, and wellness. I want to be an encouraging force in this world, acknowledging everyone, teaching them that all men are created equal and endowed by their Creator. I want to help mold our next generation by lending my hand to create in others, self-motivation, determination and success by STEPPING UP™”
India hopes through this movement she can help young men and women, her peers, to see the value of their lives through God’s eyes, not the world. She believes in purpose and purposeful living, which is why she is partnering with her Uncle Ronald to deliver a message of hope to her generation. “Many today are taking their lives instead of investing in their lives and their future. We gotta change this! I challenge YOU to join us and STEP UP™!
MISSION
Our mission is to draw both the young
and old to dialog, in turn to community,
to build a better future, today.
VALUE
Your worth is our worth. We choose to bring positive change to a hurting world.
By trusting in our members and the process we have chosen to get them there, we are sparking freedom in the hearts of all.
VISION
Our Vision is to bring young and old together in true dialog to address the needs in our communities and find common sensed solutions,
solving the past and growing together
in the future.
PURPOSE
We have designed a place for true mentorship, dialog, and fellowship which can happen without pretense, judgement, and negativity. The purpose of our site and name is to help communities and those who live in them to STEP UP™, taking responsibility of service to all.
