“There comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. We need to go upstream and find out why they're falling in.”
- Desmond Tutu
NextSteps Housing
NextSteps is OpenDoors’ housing access program that provides advocacy, coaching, and financial assistance to families seeking to transition from their current living situation, and for those in a housing crisis. The program is part of OpenDoors' Parent Empowerment Model and foundationally supports our To & Through College Access and Completion Initiative, so that students break the cycle of poverty through education.
Without the safety, security, and stability of sustainable housing, our students are at greater risk of academic failure. Working in partnership with corporate sponsors, real estate owners, donors, and local non-profit, WNC Superheroes, OpenDoors families will have the opportunity to receive the financial support they need to close the gap between Section 8 Vouchers and the current market rate for rental properties. By providing this critical resource, more housing options will become available to OpenDoors families so students can thrive.
Families enrolled in NextSteps will also receive one-on-one coaching from OpenDoors staff to connect additional resources that will ensure sustainable housing. This includes educating area homeowners about the benefits of renting to our participants and advocating for our families with landlords. Research shows that housing is a critical resource that can strongly influence positive educational and personal outcomes for students, helping them go all the way To & Through college, and on to sustainable careers.
Next Steps Driving
The OpenDoors of Asheville NextSteps Driving Program serves as a support system for students and families to obtain their Permit, Driver’s License and eventually an affordable and reliable vehicle. We recognize that student educational attainment and positive outcomes are intrinsically linked to sustainable resources such as driver’s education and licenses which translate to employment opportunities.
In addition, through our partnership with Working Wheels, our families continue to receive reliable automobiles and necessary auto repairs, totaling over $10,000 in 2021.
I can focus on organizing my time better since I am now in control of my own transportation. I have been doing so much more, and it’s changed my mentality about things.
It’s not “Can I do this?” anymore,
it’s turned into “When will I do this?”
— 17 year-old NextSteps Driving student, after receiving a car from Working Wheels
Employability
We support students and parents by connecting them with equitable employment opportunities, developing resumes and preparing for job interviews. In conjunction with our Financial Literacy Program, students and parents are equipped with the tools to find living wage employment suited to their skills and interests and to manage their earnings for a sustainable lifestyle.
Employability is one piece of the puzzle that supports families as they grow and thrive. This is directly influencing housing opportunities and growth as a financially resourced individual, breaking the cycle of systemic wealth inequality.