Next Step

Next Step is a Cambridge nonprofit that supports young people living with serious illness as they move into adulthood. It works to shatter limitations and raise aspirations, built on the belief that a medical condition should not define a person. Programs are free and combine friendship, fun and practical support, helping participants set and reach goals at school, at work and beyond.

Executive Director Bill Kubicek founded Next Step in 2001 with the support of the late actor and philanthropist Paul Newman. Its office, Next Step Central, hosts mentorship programs, group projects and social gatherings. Music therapy plays a big role, with a music therapist helping participants write and record original songs in the Song Studio, and youth with sickle cell disease created the comic series When Lightning Strikes.

What to Know

• Its programming follows the Next Step Change Process, a three-step cycle.
• An annual Fall Campference mixes summer camp fun with conference learning.
• Runners can raise money by joining Team Next Step for the Boston Marathon.
• The organization publishes its 990s and audited financial statements.