For people who have intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), aging out of the school system at age 22 can be devastating. They lose meaningful connections with people outside of their families and their families lose up to eight hours of daily help.
"We call this transition 'the cliff.' And that's exactly what it feels like for families," says Nick Carberry, Next Step Ministries Chief of Staff. "That's where Next Step Ministries steps in. We offer our clients a sense of purpose and joy, and we give families peace of mind."
Lori Baker, a physical therapist who helped many children in the Cherokee County, GA, school system, founded Next Step Ministries in 2009 to provide care for adults with IDD. The program creates an inclusive environment where clients can thrive and reach their full potential.
One example is Jeffrey Martucci, a man in his late 30s with Down syndrome who has found the program to be a perfect match for him. His family was surprised and excited by how quickly Jeffrey adjusted to the warm and welcoming environment. Now Jeffrey has opportunities to make friends and participate in weekly activities like bowling, karate, and community outings that have become highlights in his life.
Next Steps Ministries offers two programs. The day program serves 15 to 20 adults with profound needs, such as feeding tubes, that require full time care. These adults participate in therapeutic activities, social interaction, and weekly community activities based on the level of care needed.
Next Step Ministries also offers programs for people with moderate developmental disabilities to improve their cognitive and physical abilities. These programs focus on providing essential life skills through activities such as science experiments, crafts, cooking lessons and community outings.
More than 7,000 families in Georgia are awaiting state and federal waivers to qualify for funds to pay for services that organizations like Next Step Ministries provide. Families who can't find support often have to leave jobs to care for their family members at home.
"It's important that we normalize and include people with IDD. They should not be hidden. They add to our community, and their families too," says Nick. "Community events help to form relationships between people with IDD and the public. It gives a space to communicate, educate, and form friendships."
Next Step Ministries currently has two locations in Woodstock serving 55 families and 60 clients a year. In 2025 they plan to expand into metro Atlanta and add capacity to an existing location.
To learn more, visit https://www.nextstepministries.net.
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