The Program

Next Step for Life is a transitional housing program for men and women. Residents of the program live in either the men’s or women’s home with a Christian family environment and participate in classes that teach a broad range of healthy life skills. They will also be provided with food and other basic needs. Residents learn how to manage a home, organize themselves and have a routine. They develop boundaries and experience coping with life in a healthy manner. They receive financial training and make a budget. And they make a plan for when they complete the program.

Started by Dave and Diane Roland after their involvement with young people attending a local alternative school, it targets adults who have been orphaned or otherwise lack support and are vulnerable to addiction, trafficking, and other types of abuse. The program lasts 12-18 months with the goal of independence as a productive member of society – one of the main tenets of Next Step is to give a “hand up, not a hand out.”

	The first phase provides an orientation period to get to know other residents, staff, and volunteers. This is also a period of time to be acquainted to a new schedule and “get life in order.”
	Additional skills and services are provided in this phase so residents can continue to grow. Career and education goals will be discussed at this point and a plan created to provide direction.
	In this important phase residents will be assigned a leadership role in the home and obtain employment. Residents will also be encouraged to begin plugging in with the community and making appropriate, healthy social and professional connections.
	The last phase of the program is designed to help residents succeed once they transition out. Leadership training will be provided, as well as assistance with finding a safe place to live. Residents will continue to develop healthy social and professional connections so they have a support system when they leave the Next Step home.