February 17, 2011
Next Step is an amazing entity.
They recognized and filled a void in services provided to young adults with life threatening illnesses. Young adults without these diseases have enough challenges in the mystifying journey of self-awareness in late adolescence. There are opportunities for children to meet and interact but just when needed most, these opportunities vanish.
As a physician volunteer, I have personally accompanied 4 Next Step weekend retreats for YA's with blood disorders and been amazed at their results in a short period of time. Watching their programming allow the participants to open up at their own pace ad confront issues has been amazing. Then, with more amazement, watching them grow to learn new "adult" skills that they can take forward.
NextStep is small..... but sooo energetic and enthusiastic. I am lucky to have witnessed their work, and even luckier to have them as a resource to my patients.
They recognized and filled a void in services provided to young adults with life threatening illnesses. Young adults without these diseases have enough challenges in the mystifying journey of self-awareness in late adolescence. There are opportunities for children to meet and interact but just when needed most, these opportunities vanish.
As a physician volunteer, I have personally accompanied 4 Next Step weekend retreats for YA's with blood disorders and been amazed at their results in a short period of time. Watching their programming allow the participants to open up at their own pace ad confront issues has been amazing. Then, with more amazement, watching them grow to learn new "adult" skills that they can take forward.
NextStep is small..... but sooo energetic and enthusiastic. I am lucky to have witnessed their work, and even luckier to have them as a resource to my patients.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Massachussetts. I have seen my patients change after attending an event or taking part in their mentor services. It is a wonderful thing.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Make it bigger! Expand their programming to reach more YAs with life-threatening illnesses.
MY ROLE:
Professional with expertise in this field & I was the physician for 4 weekend retreats.
Review from Guidestar