News

Read more about what’s new with our programs, issues our work addresses, and other updates.

We are thankful for anyone able and willing to help us communicate our work. If you have creative ideas to help us spread the word about our mission or if you are a member of the press, we would love to talk to you. Please contact our Director of Marketing and Communications.

Laptop with Second Story logo shown

We Have a New Look

We invite you to explore our updated website!
Staff standing with HomeAid ribbon

Our Safe Havens for Young Mothers Received Generous Upgrades

These newly renovated homes will provide safe, welcoming spaces for young mothers and their children.
Jade Leedham, woman at podium

Second Story Starts a New Chapter

We welcome Jade Leedham into her new role as Second Story CEO.
Second Story Logo

Make an Impact in 2025

Start the new year by giving the gift a second story to a local neighbor in need.
Giving Tuesday Logo

Give the Gift of a Second Story this Giving Tuesday

Make an impact on local youth and families in need. Learn more by reading our annual holiday letter from Board President Kevin Davis.
Picture of beautifully wrapped gifts

Donate Holiday Gifts for Youth

Every year Second Story gives a few holiday gifts to the youth in our programs to help make their holidays brighter. We need your help to make it happen!
Judith Dittman and Jade Leedham

CEO Judith Dittman Shares Retirement Plans

After 30 years of serving local youth & families, Judith Dittman will retire at the end of 2024.
Youth Council Art Example

Teens Raise Awareness about Opioid Epidemic Through Art

Second Story's Youth Council shares unique perspectives through art.

Learning Center

Second Story invites you to explore the early stages of our new Learning Center and see the many resources it offers.
People setting up food on tables outside

We Made an Impact in Fiscal Year 2023

View some highlights and read about "authentic" efforts to be there for young people during Fiscal Year 2023.
Broken fence for Focal Point Clip

Second Story Featured on Public TV

The story highlights a 17-year life expectancy gap between local affluent communities versus "islands of disadvantage."
2024 Thank You

Second Story Thanks You!

On behalf of our staff, the young people we serve, and the families we work with, thank you! Your support greatly helps us!

Need Help?

If you need help right away, our 24/7 hotline provides support and referrals to services in the Washington DC metro area.
Call 1-800-SAY-TEEN or text “TEENHELP” to 855-11

Your Impact

We make every dollar count. The direct support of young people, their families and their communities, is our first priority. Here are examples of how your donation may be used.

$20,000

  • Three high school students experiencing homelessness receive a full year of rental assistance and support services so they can remain in school and graduate with their class.

$1,000

  • One teenager receives a safe haven, warm bed, food, and round-the-clock support for five nights at Second Story for Teens in Crisis, or
  • Eight months of therapy for a young woman in the Second Story for Young Mothers program.

$500

  • One teen receives daily counseling during a three-week stay at Second Story for Teens in Crisis, or
  • Twenty counseling sessions for the children and teens who are at-risk and participating in our after-school programs.

$100

  • Three teens receive a therapy session at Second Story for Teens in Crisis, or
  • Two weeks of food for a young mother and her child at Second Story for Young Mothers.

Thank you for your support!