Next Step Community Solutions

Next Step Community Solutions is a 501 (c) 3 Texas incorporated non-profit organization. Next Step has been located in Tyler, Texas since it was founded in 1984. Originally formed as Sister Communities Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse (SCCADA), the nonprofit was established in response to the Congress, President, and local community's concern for alcohol and substance abuse. In 2011, the board and staff responded to community needs and broadened the available services to provide more citizens with the resources necessary to take their next step to being a healthy and productive contributor to the local community. Simultaneously, the name was changed to Next Step Community Solutions. The Community Assistance Service Program helps citizens find the services they need to help them or loved ones overcome alcohol and /or substance abuse problems. Next step's staff helps them take that first step of calling the appropriate agency to schedule an assessment or counseling session. The Community Coalition Partnership Program works to bring together the various community forces to work on the problems of alcohol and substance abuse. This program is funded primarily by the Department of State Health Services (DSHS). The coalitions seek to involve all interested citizens to alter community perceptions and public policy concerning alcohol and substance abuse. There are three coalitions that support a thirteen county area. East Texas Substance Abuse Coalition covers Smith, Rusk, Cherokee, Henderson, and Van Zandt counties. Smart Start Coalition covers Marion, Harrison, and Gregg counties. Mission Possible Coalition covers Titus, Morris, Cass, Franklin, and Bowie counties. The Comprehensive Counseling Program works alongside local schools and juvenile probation offices. The full-time counseling services can be delivered for less than the cost of a full-time district employee. The licensed counselors can make professional recommendations and referrals.