The Next Step Adventurer's Program is a thoughtfully designed school holiday initiative supporting young neurodiverse individuals aged 8-13. Running in Footscray (April 2025), Macedon Ranges, and Werribee (July 2025), this program offers small group activities that foster social, recreational, and community participation skills.

 

More than just a holiday program, Next Step Adventurers plays a vital role in creating opportunities for young people who may not have access to traditional support pathways. It helps raise essential sponsorship funds for participants in the Bridging the Gap Program, a transformative initiative by Linking the Next Steps VIC. This program equips young neurodiverse adults with the skills needed to successfully transition into the workforce or higher education. While many participants can access this program through their NDIS plans under S.L.E.S. funding, some individuals fall through the gaps due to diagnosis or funding limitations.

 

To ensure no one is left behind, our not-for-profit organisation, Linking the Next Step INC., established the Next Step Adventurer's Program (school holiday) and the Next Step Voyager Program (term-by-term). These programs generate crucial sponsorship opportunities for young adults who need additional support in developing essential life and employment skills. By participating, families are not only providing enriching experiences for their children but also contributing to a broader mission—helping young people gain the confidence and skills needed for a successful transition from high school to employment or further education.