Next Steps Reentry Program

Helping individuals rebuild their lives after incarceration, treatment, or recovery.
At Next Steps, we believe everyone deserves a second chance. Our program provides guidance, resources, and ongoing support to help you reach stability, independence, and long-term success.

Next Steps Program Qualifiers

1. Legal/Criminal Justice Status

  • Currently on probation, parole, or recently released from jail or prison.

  • History of incarceration within a defined timeframe (e.g., past 12 months).

  • Commitment to reentry and compliance with program rules.

2. Substance Use / Treatment History

  • Completion of, or currently enrolled in, a drug/alcohol rehabilitation program.

  • Demonstrated need for continued support in recovery.

  • Willingness to engage in treatment or follow-up services.

3. Reentry / Stability Needs

  • Requires assistance with housing, employment, education, or life skills post-release.

  • Has dependents (children/family) needing support.

  • Expressed interest in reintegration into community life.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Next Steps Program is designed to support individuals who are reentering the community after incarceration. Our goal is to reduce recidivism and help you build a successful, healthy future through support, education, and empowerment.

 

This program recognizes the unique challenges faced by individuals transitioning from incarceration, including rebuilding family connections, accessing stable housing, securing employment, and maintaining physical and mental wellness. We are here to walk with you every step of the way.

 

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Participants must:

  • Be recently released from incarceration (within the last 12-24 months).
  • Commit to a minimum of 12-week program participation.
  • Complete a full intake and needs assessment.
  • Attend workshops and monthly check-ins.
  • Set and work toward personalized SMART goals (housing, employment, sobriety, etc.).
  • Maintain sober living status (if applicable).
  • Meet regularly with a mentor, case manager, or peer support leader.
  • Complete a post-program plan and follow-up check-ins for 6–12 months.

PROGRAM COMPONENTS

 

  • Orientation Session – Introduction to the program, expectations, and available supports.
  • Weekly Life Skills & Recovery Workshops – Topics include communication, budgeting, coping strategies, parenting, relapse prevention, and more.
  • Mentorship & Peer Support – One-on-one and group support with individuals who understand your journey.
  • Job Readiness Training – Resume building, mock interviews, workplace skills, and connections to local employers.
  • Goal Planning and Tracking – Regular sessions to review progress and adjust goals as needed.
  • Access to Community Resources – Referrals for housing, food assistance, medical care, legal aid, and educational opportunities.

 

At Next Steps, we believe everyone deserves a second chance. Our team provides guidance, resources, and ongoing support to help you find stability, independence, and long-term success.

 Phase 1: Getting Started

Goal: Build trust, assess needs, and create your personalized plan.

How it works:

  1. Referral: You can be referred by jail, probation/parole, recovery centers, or contact us yourself.

  2. Quick Screening (15–30 mins): A short conversation to discuss your needs and readiness.

  3. Full Intake (60–90 mins): Meet your case manager, set SMART goals, and complete program forms.

    • You’ll receive a welcome packet, resource list, and staff contact card.

  4. First Steps Toward Stability:

    • Help with ID, housing, Medicaid, SNAP, and other essentials.

    • Access to food, clothing, and hygiene supplies.

    • Get connected to 1–3 community resources right away.

 Phase 2: Program & Case Management

Goal: Build structure, reach your goals, and strengthen your support system.

What to expect:

  • First 30 Days:
    Weekly check-ins, goal setting, life-skills workshops, and optional peer support.

  • 60–90 Days:
    Biweekly meetings, job readiness training, family/parenting support, and mental health referrals.

  • Group Sessions (Optional):
    Join monthly sessions on motivation, communication, rebuilding trust, and trauma healing.

  • Progress Reviews:
    Every 30, 60, and 90 days, we’ll celebrate your progress and update your plan.

Phase 3: Graduation & Beyond

Goal: Leave with confidence, stability, and a solid support plan.

Before you graduate:

  • Create a Transition Plan (housing, job, ongoing supports).

  • Review goals and update contact info.

  • Identify support people and services for after the program.

  • Receive your Certificate of Completion and celebrate your success! 

After graduation:

  • Join monthly alumni meetups or support circles.

  • We’ll check in at 3, 6, and 12 months to see how you’re doing.

  • Alumni are invited to speak to current participants and share their stories.

 

Tools & Resources

You’ll use helpful tools during your journey:

  • Screening & Intake Forms

  • Consent & Release Forms

  • SMART Goal Worksheets

  • Reentry Action Plan

  • Progress Tracker

  • Exit Checklist & Certificate

  • Satisfaction Survey

Our Promise

We walk beside you every step of the way — with compassion, accountability, and hope.
Together, we’ll take your next steps toward a brighter, stronger future.