Lily came to Next Step during a pivotal moment in her life after discovering she was pregnant. Through the support and encouragement she received, she found a place where she could ask questions, seek hope, and begin a new chapter.

As she reflected on her journey, Lily shared:

"Had she not come here when she found out she was pregnant, we would have never met and she wouldn't be here today."

Lily also shared about the joy she has found in reading through the Bible and journaling. These moments of reflection have become something she looks forward to as she continues growing in her faith and discovering hope for her future.

Anna walked through the doors of Next Step and immediately shared how welcoming it felt to be there. She expressed how much she appreciates having a place where she feels supported and encouraged.

As she prepared for the arrival of her daughter, Anna shared her excitement that her due date was only two weeks away.

Maya shared that she loves coming to Next Step because it brings a sense of peace to her life. As she walked through a season where many things seemed to be falling into place, she was reminded that the Lord was showing her favor and drawing her closer to Himself.

She was encouraged to remember that God loves her, her unborn child, her other children, and her family—and that He desires to build a new and stable future for her.

Recently, some doors have closed because of her past record, leaving her feeling discouraged. During one of those difficult moments, she noticed the shirt her advocate was wearing: "In the Waiting, God is Working."

It was a simple reminder that even in seasons of waiting and uncertainty, God is still present and still working.

Jenny began working with Next Step a little over a year ago during a season of growth and change in her life. Her story is unique—she was expecting another child with her husband and was looking for encouragement and support as she continued growing as a mom.

Jenny has not always had strong female influences around her, and Next Step became a place where she could find support, guidance, and someone to walk alongside her. She is a loving mother with a belief in God, but she had not yet taken the next step in developing her faith.

Through BrightCourse lessons, prayer, and meaningful conversations, we have seen Jenny slowly grow closer to God.

Tori has been meeting with Next Step for approximately five months, connecting weekly for encouragement, support, and meaningful conversations. When she first began, she was very shy, but over time we have watched her blossom into a young woman who is confident, engaged, and willing to share.

Through her time at Next Step, Tori participates in BrightCourse lessons, conversations, and prayer. One of the greatest joys has been witnessing her spiritual growth as she continues building her relationship with the Lord.

At the end of each session, Tori reminds her advocate how important it is to pray together before they leave.

Tori welcomed a beautiful baby girl.

When this family first connected with Next Step, they were preparing for the arrival of their baby and navigating many unknowns that come with becoming parents. They came to Next Step looking for support, encouragement, and a place where they could ask questions and learn as they began this new chapter together.

From the beginning, one thing was clear—they deeply loved their baby. Their tenderness and care for their daughter became an opening where connection, trust, and hope could begin to grow.

As they prepared for birth and learned how to parent together, Next Step had the privilege of walking alongside them through conversations, encouragement, and practical support. Their journey has not always been easy, and they have faced challenges from their past that shaped how they viewed family, life, and faith.

At first, faith conversations felt unfamiliar, and prayer was not something they were comfortable with. But over time, through consistent support and genuine relationships, we saw hearts begin to soften.

Months later, we witnessed a beautiful moment of change. For the first time, praying together was welcomed. As they continued their journey, God opened a door that once seemed closed.

Maria came to Next Step during her pregnancy. She needed encouragement and support as she prepared to welcome her baby. As she walked through pregnancy and the transition into motherhood, she faced the added challenge of having very little support at home.

After welcoming her baby, Maria said, "It was all worth it."

Resilience came in, already due with a baby girl the same month.

Voicing varied pieces of a past filled with hurt, confusion, and abuse. Owning up to poor choices. Dealing with consequences and taking steps forward. A mom, wife, daughter, online student, homemaker and homeschooler. A redeemed sinner who met God in jail, and a dreamer of a better life for her children. 

She wishes she had found us sooner.

Grace came in, a young college student, unsure. 

Voicing varied questions and hopes with a gentle, quiet spirit. Nervous about giving birth but positive. Fast-forward one year.  Now driving long distances between school and home, caring for her son and navigating life as a young adult. Healing from past mistakes. Learning to be a leader and not a follower. 

She desires to make a bright future. 

Tenacity came in, seeking stability, wondering – “Who am I?”

Voicing varied fears and falsities – “What about my age? What if something bad happens? I am not enough.” Working to untangle the roots of her beliefs and to separate from unhealthy relationships. A woman of independence and persistence, striving to prepare wisely for the birth of her baby boy. 

She longs for peace, and asks – “Who will be there for me?”