Our Mission

Established in 2015, The Next Step Programs is all about paving the way for young adults with disabilities as they step out of high school. 

Our core belief is simple yet powerful: individuals with disabilities deserve every chance to immerse themselves in all aspects of life. This includes opportunities for higher education, independent living, building social networks, and playing an active role in their communities.

TNS is recognized as a qualified waiver provider by PA’s Office of Developmental Programs.

Team TNS

Josh Fields

Co-founder & Executive Director

Katie Lemly

Director of Programs

Mary Kate Ryan

Program Manager - CPS

Tim Silverthorn

Employment Manager

Tina DiBiaso

Resource & Strategy Advisor

Headshots

Julianne Butynskyi

IDD Program Specialist

Olivia Marinelli

Outreach Manager

Brittany Fields

Billing Administrator

Meghan Kensil

Office Manager

Sabrina Workman

Marketing Coordinator

Mary Baltes

Community Ambassador

Collin Corchiolo

Community Ambassador

Abby Plummer

Community Ambassador

Julia Shirey

Community Ambassador

Justin Tealer

Community Ambassador

Kevin King

Job Coach

Adam Fields

Job Coach

Noah Gremo

Job Coach

Julie Druzak

Direct Support Professional

Diane Fink

Direct Support Professional

Abbi Nassivera

Direct Support Professional

Dyllan Pringle

Direct Support Professional

Maya Scott

Direct Support Professional

Brianna Thompson

Direct Support Professional

Julia Finkel

Program Facilitator

Nancy Flanagan

Program Facilitator

Susan McGann

Program Facilitator

Lauren Speice

Program Facilitator

Emily Vollrath

Program Facilitator

Our Vision

At TNS, we envision a world where individuals with disabilities have equal access to opportunities and support as they transition out of high school and beyond. Our organization was founded in 2015 with a mission to create innovative solutions that empower students, families, employers, and school systems to break down barriers and build a more inclusive future. By working together, we can create a world where everyone has the chance to achieve their full potential and live a fulfilling life. 

Join us on this journey, and help us create a more inclusive world for all!

Our Board Members

Our Board of Directors is dedicated to governing and advising our team to reach our vision, and fulfill our mission! The members of our board are educators, parents, self-advocates, and nonprofit leaders who took an oath to support, advise, and direct the affairs of our organization.  Our 2024-25 Board of Directors include:

Denise Campbell, Secretary 
Maggie Cunliffe 
Paula Fasciano
Joshua Fields, Chair 
Ellen Gremo 
Morgan Heckel, Co-Treasurer
John Klouser, Co-Treasurer 
Susan McGann
Debbie Neibauer, Vice Chair 
Karen Plummer