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 PROGRAM PROVIDES:
- 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 FUNDING:
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 here to make a one-time or recurring donation to help us help our students.

 

ADMISSIONS PROCESS: 

To apply for admissions or to learn more about programming, please contact:
Susan Ballerstedt, Program Coordinator,
ballerstedt@twc.com
Suellen Barnes, Executive Director, 502-257-2719

MORE INFORMATION & VOLUNTEERING:

To donate, volunteer, or partner with us, please contact
Suellen Barnes, Executive Director, 502-257-2719

Email:
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