ABOUT
Who We Are
We offer free, one-to-one and small group tutoring to adults in reading, writing, and math to help increase employability and independence. We create customized training plans to help learners progress toward their goals at their own pace, in a confidential and supportive environment.
Our mission is to provide free Adult Upgrading to increase employability and independence. Working one-to-one, students progress towards their goals, at their own pace, in a confidential and supportive environment.
history
Next Step began as a grassroots organization called The Literacy Council of South Simcoe (LCSS), when a group of concerned citizens joined together to help people in their community improve their reading and writing skills. Thanks to the dedication of these volunteers and the community, Next Step purchased our current site where we continue to assist our community in building their skills.
FUNDING
We receive funding from the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development for the majority of our programs. We fundraise to provide services to our clients which are not covered by the provincial grant and for expenses that are not covered, including marketing, building repairs, etc.
board of
directors
​Next Step is governed by a Board of Directors. The Board is made up of volunteers who meet on a regular base throughout the year to discuss and vote on all matters concerning the organization of Next Step
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President - Jill Jones
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Treasurer/Secretary - Peter McKenna
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Director - Ha Glas
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Director - Jazmin Khan
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Director - Loralie Clemmensen
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Director - Constance Boldt
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Director - Jan Atkinson
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Director - Rick Vender
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Director - Melissa Medaglia
Our Staff
SHIRA
BERNIE
NATASJA
Executive Director
Training and Development Manager
Administration/Training Assistant
Our Executive Director is responsible for fundraising, marketing, building maintenance as well as various other administrative duties at Next Step. She has successfully re-branded ”The Literacy Council of South Simcoe” to “Next Step.” Part of this re-branding included renovating the space to increase the number of tutoring rooms and to create a larger computer training space. She is responsible for co-ordinating fundraising, including the popular “Grate Groan-Up Spelling Bee”. Click here to contact Shira
Our Training and Development Manager is responsible for conducting assessments with learners as well as matching up tutors with learners. He also trains tutors in teaching reading, writing and mathematics. He helps learners create a learning plan and helps tutors with finding resources. If you have any questions about the upgrading part of the program, the Training and Development Manager is the one to talk to. Click here to contact Bernie
The admin/training assistant provides the Executive Director and Training and Development Manager with administrative support. Day to day office operations are part of her duties as well as being a liaison between the tutors, learners and the management team. She’s also involved in promotional activities regarding program delivery through social media, the website and in the community.