Next Steps was founded by Pamela De Santiago and a hard-working board in 2019 just prior to the pandemic crisis. The founders draw strength and purpose from the community and look to them to support the mission. Little did they know when Next Steps was formed, how dire the community needs would become. In the first few years, the team worked tirelessly to supply community resources to those on the brink of ruin. In 2022 the Next Steps mission expanded by opening our first transitional living home, Shepherd’s House. This home exists to provide a next step for those who are ready to invest in breaking poverty cycles. In early 2023, Next Steps partnered with Novel Therapy to provide low-cost to no-cost mental health services for clients. Today Next Steps remains the only non-profit service of its kind in The Colony & the surrounding area.
Our Heritage
Our Mission
Next Step’s mission is to empower people to create a path out of poverty and to participate in building a stronger community by helping them locate and utilize the right resources.
Our Vision
Next Steps’ Vision is to prevent and thereby eradicate poverty cycles in our area by providing resources and teaching clients how to not simply survive but thrive.
Equity Statement
Next Steps The Colony sees every person as unique and worthy. We do not discriminate or tolerate harassment of any person based on race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, marital or parental status, or pregnancy. This policy applies to participation in all Next Steps programs and events; application for employment or volunteer positions; retention and promotion of employees, volunteers, and board members; hiring of vendors and other service providers.