Eric Perlyn
As founder, Eric is responsible for developing and directing Stepp'n Up and overseeing the commitment to provide new sneakers to underprivileged children. While growing up, giving back to the community was always a part of the Perlyn household. Eric's parents, Don and Marilyn, encouraged their three children to get involved in the community by instilling the values of charitable efforts and helping those less fortunate. In 1990, Stepp'n Up was founded and Eric has been growing the charity ever since. For his efforts with Stepp'n Up, Eric has received numerous national awards including: The Caring Institute's Caring Award, The Prudential Spirit of Community Initiative Award, and the Daily Point of Light Award. Additionally, Eric has been featured in national media including: The Oprah Winfrey Show, The Charles Osgood Files, and many books including Well Done, by R. David Thomas, Founder of Wendy's International.
 

Amanda Perlyn
Amanda Perlyn joined the leadership of Stepp'n Up in 2000. Amanda, along with her brother, helps to expand Stepp'n Up's reach wherever possible and continues to make a difference in the community with a number of initiatives. In 1990, Amanda founded To Have and To Hug, an organization which collects stuffed toys for children in need. To date, more than 15,000 stuffed toys have been distributed and served to comfort children who have been abused or abandoned. Continuing to reach out, the Perlyn family hopes to inspire others to make a difference by giving back. In 2004, the Perlyn's published an inspirational children's book, The Biggest and Brightest Light. This true story of the heart was written by Marilyn Perlyn and illustrated by Amanda, based on the events she learned while helping others. Amanda is the recipient of numerous awards including Seventeen/Cover Girl Volunteerism Award, R. David Thomas Child Advocate of the Year Award, JCPenney Golden Rule Award, Daily Point of Light Award, Allstate Good Hands Volunteer Award, and Voice of Democracy Award. Her story has been published in Jackie Waldman's book, The Courage to Give.

Eric with a happy young boy - recipient of a brand new pair of sneakers.