Our Core Services Include:

Employment Services

Job development and placement

Workplace readiness training

On-the-job coaching and retention support

Vocational exploration and goal planning

Premier Programming such as the STEP Program.

Next Step Supports LLC is proud to announce the launch of STEP (Striving Toward Employment & Possibilities), a dynamic work readiness program designed for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and/or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

STEP offers a structured pathway to employment through customized life and employability skills training, career exploration, and mentoring. The program’s goal is to empower each participant to identify their strengths, develop new skills, and pursue meaningful employment opportunities that align with their personal interests and aptitudes.

Developed in alignment with the Work Experience for Adults (WEXA) Provider Agreement standards, STEP is a non-licensed program designed to fill a critical service gap between foundational supported employment and long-term workplace success. The program was created in direct response to the needs of the community and the individuals Next Step Supports proudly serves.

STEP is about more than just getting ready for a job — it’s about building confidence, discovering strengths, and creating opportunities that last.

Program Objectives

• Prepare participants to enter the workforce as high-quality, confident job candidates.

• Increase access to community-based employment for people with intellectual disabilities and ASD.

• Serve as a positive catalyst for personal and professional growth, helping participants reach their full potential.

Program Overview

• Duration: 25 sessions over 8 weeks (100 total instructional hours)

• Schedule: 3 days per week, 4 hours per day (plus a weekly buffer day for flexibility)

• Location: Next Step Supports Headquarters

• Next Phase: Participants transition directly into WEXA-S, receiving on-the-job support with a local employer for up to 12 weeks.

Program Experience

In STEP, participants explore their career interests, personality traits, communication styles, and workplace preferences. Instruction covers:

• Customer service and professionalism

• Employer expectations and workplace etiquette

• Computer literacy and decision-making

• Personal finance and life balance skills

Each participant will complete a personalized Career Plan, a roadmap detailing their career goals, strengths, and key skills. Following classroom instruction, participants are matched with local employers for a hands-on work experience, supported one-on-one by trained staff.

Upon completion, OVR counselors will assist participants in securing long-term employment support through Supported Employment and Job Coaching resources.

Candidate Requirements

• Minimum age: 18

• High school graduate

• No significant behavioral challenges within the past 12 months

• Strong desire to work and grow

• Able to communicate effectively in a classroom setting

• Commitment to consistent attendance

• Transportation available via OVR contract if needed

• Must complete all enrollment steps promptly

Post-Program Expectations

Graduates of STEP are expected to move into paid, competitive employment within the regional provider network or begin a direct pathway toward such employment. Follow-up support will be provided for up to one year after completion.

Enrollment is now open!
Roster spots are limited — refer a candidate today and help them take their first STEP toward success.