This week, our ambassadors will begin creating spotlight videos, sharing who they are, why they chose to lead, and what NSTS means to them personally. These stories will give our community an authentic look at the impact of NSTS through the voices of the students themselves.

The ambassador program is not only strengthening leadership and communication skills but also building a culture of pride and ownership among our youth. We are excited to watch these young leaders continue to grow and inspire their peers.

James Harris – Executive Director

We are also in the process of reviewing student grades, and individualized academic support will be offered to those who may benefit from additional tutoring or targeted intervention. Additionally, we are actively seeking tutors and volunteers to support students in our Homework Hub. If you’re interested in contributing your time and skills, we would love to have you join us.

Thank you for your continued partnership in helping our youth thrive!

This week at Next Step to Success, our youth engaged in activities focused on growth, confidence, and community.

• We want to recognize Coach Whitley, who joins us every Tuesday and Thursday to help our youth enhance their basketball skills while reinforcing discipline and teamwork on and off the court. His dedication continues to make a positive impact.
• Our groups also worked on hygiene bags to take home and participated in confidence-building projects, including creating sidewalk chalk messages and decorating positivity jars filled with affirmations.
• This week, our youth also experienced a martial arts demonstration, introducing them to new skills and disciplines. We are excited about the potential for a future partnership in this area.
• Holiday decorations have begun throughout the building. A special thank-you to our Juniors and Seniors for leading the effort and supporting our middle school youth.

Thank you all for a productive week and for your continued commitment to supporting our youth.

Save the Date:

• November 20, 2025: NSTS Gratitude Dinner (A community celebration for youth, families, and partners)
• November 26–28, 2025: NPS Thanksgiving Break ( NSTS Closed all three days)

Family Satisfaction & Impact Survey:

Our NSTS Family Satisfaction and Impact Survey remains open. Families are strongly encouraged to check their email and complete the survey as soon as possible. Your feedback directly supports program improvements, strengthens communication, and informs future funding decisions.

Transportation Reminders:

• Route revisions must be requested at least 24 hours in advance to ensure timely evening drop-offs.
• Coaches are responsible for the safety and wellbeing of all youth and must wait until each student is safely inside their home. If a parent/guardian is not home, the youth will be brought back to NSTS and must be picked up from campus.
• Families experiencing delays or changes must contact the Main Office at 757-995-2111 or Mr. Muhanma at 757-404-1818.

Parking Lot Renovation:

• NSTS parking lot renovations have begun and will continue over the next few weeks.
• We kindly ask families and staff for patience during this transition.
• Once closing dates and work schedules are confirmed, we will provide updated drop-off and pick-up procedures to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow.

Your favorite kitchen crew is back with another week of good vibes & full plates! Here’s what’s cookin’ in Chef B’s world this week:

This Week’s Menu:

• 🍔 Cheeseburgers & Fries – Classic, crispy, cheesy, and not up for debate.
• 🌮 Taco Rice Bowls (Chicken or Beef) – All the fixings, all the flavor, all the smiles.
• 🍗 Wings & Wedges – Because wings make the world go ’round.
• 💛 GRATITUDE DINNER! – A special meal to celebrate our youth, our staff, and our village.
• 🌯 Breakfast Burritos – Morning vibes for any time of day, wrapped up just right.

Thank you all for the continued support, patience, and laughs in and out of the kitchen. We don’t just serve food—we serve love, lessons, and a whole lot of second helpings. 😄

If you have any questions, allergies, or special considerations, please let the kitchen know so we can keep everyone safe and satisfied.

With gratitude & good seasoning,

Brittany “Chef B” Brown  & The Kitchen Crew 🧑🏽‍🍳✨

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.