The Rochester Step-Off Educational Foundation, Inc. formerly known as the Rochester Step-Off Committee, started in 1994. The ongoing mission is to reduce barriers that impede success in high school and encourage the pursuit of a college education. Rochester Step-Off has proven that contact with the collegiate traditions of step has inspired young people to pursue higher education, personal goals and community services. Above all, Rochester Step-Off has remained rooted in the fundamental principle for its formation…a dedication to the betterment of Rochester's youth.

Middle and high schools, city, suburban and private. Settlement house, elementary and other step program operate throughout the year. Programs operate under what is called the Rochester Step Accord, which are a set of principles, and guidelines, which creates the Rochester Step Accord Model. Common guidelines and understandings promote collaboration and high standards. Programs that participate must follow these 5 guidelines;

1. Provide an academic improvement component that rewards
achievement amends deficiencies and prepares for college.
Students who participate must have a grade point average of 2.5 each marking period.
2. Create opportunities for self-development and cultural enhancement.
3. Perform public services.
4. Respect physical conditioning, safety and good sportsmanship.
5. Develop long-term and active partnerships with community agencies
as a means of reinforcing the preceding principles

Rochester Step-Off is a very unique program with a proven record of success. More than 60 students and hundreds of volunteers participate annual in the program. The program is designed to strengthens and enhances students grades, attendance and, positive report card comments. While reducing suspension and dropout rates in school, reducing acts of violence and teen pregnancy in our community.

Each year Rochester Step-Off host one of the largest family events in the city, the event draws as many as 10,000 spectators. The event is for program youth to showcase their talents in the African American art of stepping while the community celebrates their academic achievements. At the event Rochester Step-Off awards scholarships and awards to graduating seniors and students whom have shown academic improvement and leadership through out the program year. Each year $12,500.00 in scholarships and awards are given to participating students bring to total award amount to well over $150,000 since the inception of the program. In addition Rochester Step-Off has a scholarship endowment of over $25,000 held at Rochester Area Community Foundation where participating youth may apply for college scholarships upon graduation for High School.

Rochester Step-Off is proud of the hard work these students put into their programs year after year and the continuous dedication of the volunteers who work with these youth for countless hours.