About Us
Next Step Training Program: Inspiring Growth for Young Adults with Mild to Moderate Autism
OUR MISSION:
Next Step Training Program exists to assist adults (many between the ages of 18 and 30) with level 1 autism spectrum disorder in gaining skills that will enable them to successfully enter the work force.
OUR METHOD:
Trainees participate in cognitive training, vestibular therapy, vocational training and social skills training twice a week for 16 weeks. They also have opportunities to work under supervision to prepare and serve food at the Simpsonville Farmers market in Simpsonville KY over the summer.
OUR OFFERINGS:
Vocational training
Cognitive Skills
Occupational Therapy
Social Skills and Job Skills
Job Placement (for those who qualify)
Supported Employment
Parents/Caregivers Training
OUR VISION:
We bring families, employers, and the community together to support young adults with level 1 autism spectrum disorder by providing practical multi-disciplinary training and employment support, so that they find their God-given purpose through meaningful employment.
OUR BACKGROUND:
Next Step Training Program began as a ministry of Home For His Glory, Inc. (HFHG), which is a 501(c)3 charitable organization that serves homeschooling families in the Kentuckiana area. NSTP became its own non-profit in May of 2022. This was the logical “next step” for this organization that serves young adults who need extra support to fulfill their God-given purpose. Our executive team members have served within HFHG from its inception and have backgrounds that uniquely qualify them for their respective positions.
Our Appeal:
We are seeking donors, volunteers and applicants to keep our program moving smoothly. All donations are tax deductible. Checks should be made out to Next Step Training Program.
Click the link below to make a one time or recurring donation to help us help our students:
https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=CSTNH9W5YYL46
ADMISSIONS PROCESS:
To apply for admissions or to learn more about programming, please contact:
Susan Ballerstedt, Program Coordinator, ballerstedt@twc.com
or
Suellen Barnes, Executive Director, 502-257-2719
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
To donate, volunteer, or partner with us, please contact Suellen Barnes, Executive Director, 502-257-2719. nextsteptrainingprogramky@gmail.com
Check out our video that gives you a glimpse into our program in action: Next Step Training Program Overview - YouTube
Strengths of individuals with autism:
Excellent rote memory
Ability to wholly absorb facts
Extremely focused
Propensity for innovation
Rules and routine oriented
Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
Kind-hearted
Loyal
Honest
Employer Benefits of Hiring Individuals with Disabilities:
Qualified, well-educated candidates to fill hard-to-hire for jobs
Showcased innovation
Improved managerial, communications, and team-building skills
Increased employee engagement
Regulatory compliance mandates
Improved workforce diversity