Community focused and impact driven since 2015…
1.5K
Participants Served Since our launch in 2015, TNS has worked with over 1,500 participants and families, paving the way for meaningful impact and lasting change.
3M+
Dollars Raised Through dedicated fundraising efforts, TNS has secured over $3 million since 2015, ensuring the sustainability of our mission and expanding opportunities for individuals and families.
6
GroupsSince becoming a Waiver Provider in 2023, we have expanded our Explore day program from a single group of three participants per day to six groups, each fostering community engagement and skill-building.
2024
Employment ServicesIn 2024, TNS launched employment services to support individuals in obtaining, maintaining, and excelling in competitive, integrated employment opportunities.
What it’s all about
Take your next step today...
We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to live a full and meaningful life in the community.
Empowered by the community, for the community—our story is rooted in collective effort. None of this would be possible without the dedication of countless families and advocates who have led the way and believed in what’s possible.
Breaking Barriers, Creating Opportunities.
Explore Our Programs
At TNS, we believe in creating opportunities for people with disabilities to live everyday lives filled with purpose and connection.
Whether it’s finding a job, exploring the community, or building friendships—The Next Step Programs is here to make it happen.
Community Participation Support
Our CPS program helps young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities engage meaningfully in their local communities. Through small group outings, volunteer experiences, skill-building activities, and real-world learning, participants build independence, confidence, and social connections—all while exploring their interests in a supportive, inclusive environment.
Employment Services
We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to work and thrive. Our Employment Services team supports individuals at every stage of the job journey—from career exploration and resume building to interview prep, job coaching, and on-the-job support. We partner closely with local businesses to promote inclusive hiring and long-term success.
Social Programming
Our evening and weekend social programs are designed to help participants build friendships, develop social skills, and just have fun. From game nights and movie outings to fitness classes and special events, our inclusive social programs are a vibrant, welcoming space for connection and community.
Overnight Experiences
Our Overnight Experiences give participants a chance to grow their independence in exciting new settings. Whether it’s a weekend trip to the shore or a getaway in the mountains, these thoughtfully planned experiences help build life skills like travel planning, budgeting, and teamwork—while creating unforgettable memories along the way.
What families are saying...
"I just can't say enough how much you all mean to us and all of the wonderful activities you offer—not only for my son, but for all participants to gain independence and community. All of the staff we have encountered are wonderful and supportive. You are all amazing!"
Kelliann M.
Parent"Erin's life is more full then we could have ever expected. She has maintained her friendships from High School as well as made new ones along the way. We thank TNS for all of the opportunities Erin has been able to participate in. We cannot wait to see what the next ten years bring."
Denise Campbell
Parent"With the support of The Next Step Programs, Caitlin is learning the skills she needs to reach her full potential and continue to be an active member of her community. She enjoys volunteering, exercising and making new connections while exploring the community with her friends."
Eileen R.
Parent"Of the past 10 years, the ones Riley has spent with TNS have been the most meaningful in working toward goals and beneficial for his overall well-being. Through the TNS day program, Riley continues to build friendships, practices independence, and engages in a range of meaningful activities."
Jen W.
Parent"Because of TNS, Dane now has a goal of living independently in an apartment, something he never imagined for himself before. Looking ahead, he hopes to continue his journey with TNS through future employment, growing his skills and independence even further."
Denise J.
Parent"Through TNS, Jagger has been able to deepen his connections within the community, work alongside his peers and currently working with a job coach to help gain new life skills. Those at TNS listened closely to his dreams, his fears, and his desires, and are guided him toward a future that felt both exciting and achievable."
Claudia C.
Parent"Jacob enjoys working at Wawa two mornings a week with a job coach through TNS and spending two days a week with the TNS community-based program.
His days are full and most importantly he is happy and engaged with his community. The Lewis family is extremely grateful for the support and services that Jacob receives through TNS."
Jen Lewis
Parent"He loves the volunteer opportunities and the many adventures that Explore has given him. With the help of the supported employment services at TNS, Seamus has started preparing for interviews for employment in the community. Seamus really is living a wonderful and fulfilling life and he and his family are so grateful to TNS for their vision, their support and their dedication."
Maura D.
Parent"Meg participates in the Explore program one day a week and excitedly looks forward to this day as well where she gets a chance to work on her independence skills in the community while spending time with friends. Meg is thriving and lives a very full and meaningful life! TNS has made that happen for Meg!"
Cheryl K.
Parent"Currently, Matthew is gainfully employed at Penn Engineering Management for two days a week, attends TNS Explore one day a week, and participates in TNS Friends Night Out events. He loves the volunteering aspect of Explore and giving back to his community. He greatly enjoys the friendships he has formed through TNS and appreciates the sense of community involvement."
Anthony F.
Parent"He gets to be active in the community with peers, enjoy outings and work hard at volunteering sites. Most of all be accepted, respected, and part of an active group of friends, living life to its fullest."
Monica F.
Parent"These programs have positively affected Jaclyn in so many ways, and we are very grateful for everyone involved in The Next Step."
Kathy Z.
ParentWe’d love to meet you
Contact Our Team Today!
Our offices are open Monday – Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM. Feel free to give us a call or send us an email—we’d love to connect!
TNS IN THE NEWS
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Bucks County • December 22, 2023 6:47 am
This Forbes 30-Under-30 honoree is helping those with developmental disabilities take ‘The Next Step'
NBC10’s Randy Gyllenhaal heads to Bucks County’s The Next Step Programs to meet Justin Tealer — who is learning to traverse life thanks to the program — and founder Josh Fields about being recognized as a Forbes 30-Under-30 for his work.