At The Next Step Programs, we are creating an accessible, integrated community designed to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live alongside peers without disabilities, seniors, and young professionals.

This vision is now known as Adam’s Way.

Adam’s Way represents more than housing. It is a long-term solution to one of the greatest challenges families face: where their loved ones will live, grow, and belong as adults. It is a model rooted in dignity, independence, community connection, and sustainable support.

Adam’s Way is named in honor of Adam Sklar, whose life and presence within the TNS community reflected the very values this project is meant to uphold. Adam was known for his kindness, his ability to form meaningful connections, and the way he brought people together. His story highlights both the power of inclusive community and the need for long-term, supportive housing that allows individuals with disabilities to live full, connected, and independent lives as adults.

By naming this project Adam’s Way, we honor his legacy and commit to carrying forward the values he embodied: inclusion, dignity, friendship, and opportunity. These values will shape every part of this community and the lives of those who will one day call it home.

Where We Are Today

Over the past year, this vision has moved from concept to active development.

To date, we have secured:

• $750,000 raised to fund early project and development costs
• $2M in committed funds to support acquisition of the land parcel in early 2026
• An assembled team of professionals guiding architecture, engineering, land use, real estate development counsel, and financial planning
• Public support from actor Colin Farrell and area business leaders, including the Morel Family Foundation and Fred Beans Foundation
• Engagement and expressed support from elected officials across multiple levels of government

What’s Next

In 2026, The Next Step Programs will launch a $5 million fundraising initiative to supplement land acquisition and early construction phases, leverage planned Low-Income Housing Tax Credit funding, and position Adam’s Way for long-term sustainability and scale.

Our LIHTC application is expected to be submitted this year, unlocking a major source of public and private investment to bring this community to life. We will also spend the year working with the Borough to navigate zoning approvals and design alignment with the surrounding community.

In addition, concept design will be finalized in April 2026, marking a major milestone as we prepare for formal development and funding applications following nearly a year-long programming process with Union Studios.

Why Adam’s Way Matters

Adults with disabilities too often age out of services, face unstable housing, or are forced into settings that limit independence and connection. Adam’s Way is designed to change that.

This community will provide long-term affordable housing, built-in support services, access to employment, education, and social opportunities, and a true sense of belonging and stability.

It will be a place where people are not managed, but empowered.

Adam’s Way is a cornerstone of The Next Step Programs’ Vision 2030 and a commitment to creating lasting solutions that support individuals with disabilities across their entire lifespan. This is not a short-term project. It is a permanent investment in community, opportunity, and human dignity.