Executive Director Weekly Update – Week 9

As we begin Week 9, our focus turns to the urgent needs of our students and families. With the recent threats to SNAP and WIC benefits, many households in our community are facing increased food insecurity challenges that directly affects the well-being and focus of our youth. At Next Step to Success, we believe no child should have to learn, grow, or dream on an empty stomach.

Food insecurity is not just a local issue, it’s a national crisis that demands compassion, awareness, and action. Together, we can make sure our families have what they need to thrive and that our students can continue focusing on learning and success.

This is why we put such emphasis on high-quality food and service. If you would like to support our efforts, please visit:

👉 https://nextsteptosuccess.org/get-involved/#donate

or email me directly at jharris@nextsteptosuccess.org.

James Harris, Executive Director

To do this, we’re seeking volunteers who can help meet the specific tutoring and learning needs of our youth. Your time and support can make a meaningful difference in helping our students stay on track and reach their full potential.

If you are interested in volunteering, please email cgelles@nextsteptosuccess.org or visit Volunteerhr.org (Volunteer Hampton Roads) and search for Next Step to Success, Homework Helpers.

This week, our coaches helped youth focus on:

• Decorating and setting up for the Halloween celebration, showing creativity and teamwork.
• Continuing with Chess Club and Together We Can, building strategy, focus, and collaboration.
• Starting basketball sessions with Coach Whitley — we’re excited to see their skills grow!

This week reflected our pillars of growth mindset, success, and community as youth demonstrated teamwork, perseverance, and excitement for learning new skills.

🕸️ Weekly Operations Update 🎃

NSTS Families!

As we head into the Halloween weekend, we want to share a few important reminders and updates to help keep everyone safe and informed!

Safety First!

Halloween is a fun and exciting time for our youth! Please take a few moments to review safety tips with your family such as traveling in groups, staying visible at night, and checking treats before eating them. Our staff will also be reinforcing safety awareness during program.

Keep Your Family Information Up to Date

If your phone number, address, or any other contact information has changed recently, please log in to TraxSolutions and update your records. Keeping your information current ensures we can reach you quickly in case of emergencies or important updates.

Stay Connected & Share Your Story

Follow us on our social media channels to stay informed about upcoming events, photos, and program highlights!

We’d also love to hear from you, please leave us a Google Review to share your positive experiences or a success story about your youth. Your feedback helps inspire other families and supports the continued growth of our program.

NSTS Family Survey

Please check your email for the latest NSTS Family Satisfaction and Impact Survey link and take a few minutes to complete it. Your input helps us better understand your needs and improve our services.

Thank you for being part of our community and for your continued support!

Wishing everyone a safe, fun, and spooky Halloween! 🎃

Need help? Call the NSTS Main Office: 757-995-2111 or stop by during program hours.

You know the deal — it’s Menu Friday and we’re back for Week 9 with a lineup so good it deserves a round of applause (and maybe a food dance or two).

This week’s theme: Comfort Food with a Kick! 💥

Here’s what’s cookin’ in Chef B’s Kitchen 👇

🍔 Crispy Chicken Sandwich with Wedges

Mondays made better with the perfect crunch — golden, crispy, and gone in seconds.

🍗 Wings & Mac & Cheese

The power couple of the kitchen. Creamy meets crispy — a love story for your taste buds.

🍝 Isaiah’s Chicken Alfredo with Garlic Bread

This week’s Youth Special straight from our very own Chef-in-Training, Isaiah!

Creamy, cheesy, and made with pride — give the young chef his flowers (after you grab your plate)! 🌟

🌭 Chili Dogs & Wedges

Friday’s bringing the heat — chili, cheese, and smiles all around. A comfort classic done right.

💬 Chef’s Note:

Let’s keep serving greatness — food with flavor, fun with purpose, and teamwork that feeds the soul. Remember: laughter is the secret ingredient, and the kitchen’s better when it’s full of it. 😄

Keep shining & keep stirring,

— Chef B & The Culinary Dream Team 🍴✨

Be part of our history and our future! Through our Brick Fundraiser, you can honor a loved one, recognize a business, or leave a family legacy by purchasing an engraved brick. Each brick will be placed on the new St. Vincent de Paul House campus, creating a lasting tribute while supporting Next Step to Success youth programs.