Second Story

06/23/2026

Teens from our Culmore Teen Center showed out at Fairfax County Government’s first-ever Thriving Youth Cup this spring! ⚽✨

This incredible soccer tournament connected local youth with critical resources, highlighted safe ways to gather, and raised vital awareness for gang prevention in the area.

Moments like this remind us why keeping our doors open and our partnerships strong matters now more than ever. When funding landscapes shift, it’s our shared commitment to youth safety that anchors us.

Through June 30, all gifts are MATCHED 1:1 up to $15k! Donate: https://buff.ly/HTK8d7j

06/22/2026

✨️ Board Spotlight ✨️

As Board President, Kevin Davis provides the strategic vision that powers Second Story.

During our recent Beacon of Hope Fundraiser, Kevin was instrumental in mobilizing the community, proving that when we invest together, we change lives. From strengthening partnerships with groups to advocating for the 2,000+ local students experiencing homelessness, Kevin ensures our mission remains a top priority.

Thank you, Kevin, for your steady leadership and unwavering belief in our youth! 👏

06/18/2026

Is your child opening "presents" in their video games, or are they learning to gamble?

Loot boxes and randomized character "skins" use the exact same variable reward psychology as slot machines. To a child, it’s just a game. To their brain, it’s a high-stakes dopamine loop.

Learn how modern video games are secretly introducing kids to gambling concepts before they even reach middle school.

🔗 Watch the full, 45-minute Learning Series session: https://buff.ly/cb9IsQ1

06/17/2026

The past year has been very challenging for local nonprofits, including Second Story. While we’re doing everything possible behind the scenes, we’re asking our supporters to help with one last push as our fiscal year comes to a close.

We want to keep you informed and engage you in the conversation because we believe that solutions are possible when we work together.

Consider donating today and helping us spread the word: https://buff.ly/wDoVekK

06/16/2026

Remember Khiarah? In 2022, she participated in our 2022 Beacon of Hope fundraiser video. Today, we are bursting with pride to share a massive milestone: Khiarah has officially graduated from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia with her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree!

Please join us in celebrating Dr. Miles-Williams, DPT! As one of our original fall 2022 Irene Pierce Scholarship recipients, we couldn't be prouder.

06/15/2026

Every year, Second Story distributes backpacks packed with school supplies during community events, ensuring that young people step into their classrooms feeling prepared, confident, and ready to learn.

We need your help to keep this tradition alive for another year! Our goal this summer is to hand out 1,500 fully stocked backpacks to K-12 students in our community, but we can't do it alone.

📧 For any questions, please reach out to us at [email protected].

06/09/2026

Recent disruptions to long-standing funding sources threaten Second Story’s ability to meet the needs of local youth and families in the region’s highest-need communities. In a candid message, Second Story CEO Jade Leedham appeals to the greater DMV community to help find solutions to the challenges facing local nonprofits like Second Story. Watch Jade’s appeal. Share your ideas. Spread the word.

Donate now: https://buff.ly/wDoVekK

Two supporters will match all donations up to $15,000 during the month of June.

Nonprofits across the DMV are experiencing significant funding cuts...

06/08/2026

Second Story for Teens in Crisis (SSTC) offers a 24/7 emergency hotline for youth who need immediate support, resources, or a safe place to stay.

Save these numbers in your phone! You never know when you or a friend might need them:

☎️ 1-800-SAY-TEEN (1-800-729-8336)
💬 Text “TeenHelp” to 855-11

Learn more: https://buff.ly/kCs8tEP

06/04/2026

A massive thank you to our amazing friends at Keller Williams Realty, LLC for spending their day transforming the kitchen and dining area at our Second Story for Teens in Crisis emergency home!

A welcoming space can mean the world to the youth walking through our doors during difficult times.

We are so incredibly grateful for your hard work and dedication to our community!

Looking to do a group volunteer? Learn more: https://buff.ly/tZXAS2n

06/03/2026

A cleaner, safer neighborhood means a brighter future for our youth. Huge thanks to the incredible volunteers who joined us in Culmore for a day of hard work and community pride! Together, we're building a stronger foundation for everyone!

If the Culmore area is looking a lot nicer, it’s because nearly 70 volunteers spent Saturday morning collecting trash around the neighborhood.