One safe hour. One step forward.
Next Step Labs are supportive, virtual sessions designed for people who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of what comes next.
Each lab focuses on one small, realistic next action—with guidance, encouragement, and zero pressure to perform.
CTA Button: Join an upcoming Next Step Lab
What Are Next Step Labs?
Next Step Labs are not classes or lectures. They are guided spaces where participants slow down, regain footing, and take one practical step forward.
These labs are designed for moments when motivation exists but clarity, confidence, or capacity feels limited.
You don’t need a plan. You don’t need momentum. You just need to show up.
Who These Labs Are For
Next Step Labs are especially helpful for:
• Young people and adults navigating transition
• Participants feeling overwhelmed or stalled
• Individuals rebuilding confidence after disruption
• Anyone who needs support before skill-building
If you’ve been saying, “I just need to figure out my next step,” this space is for you.
What to Expect
Most Next Step Labs run 60 minutes and are intentionally calm and supportive.
In each session, you can expect:
• A clear, gentle focus on one topic
• Guided reflection and prompts
• Time to work quietly on one real-life action
• Encouragement, not evaluation
Cameras are optional. Speaking is optional. Listening counts.
Sessions may be recorded for those who can’t attend live.
Participation looks many ways. This is a learning space, not a performance space.
Examples of Lab Topics
Topics rotate based on participant needs, but often include:
• Identifying your next right step
• Reducing overwhelm and prioritizing
• Preparing for a conversation or decision
• Getting unstuck after a setback
• Organizing tasks when life feels chaotic
• Rebuilding confidence through small wins
What These Labs Support
Each Next Step Lab is tagged to its main outcome, even though many support multiple areas:
• Orientation and Stability – grounding during transition
• Identity and Self Worth – reframing experience and capability
• Belonging and Support – connection and help-seeking
• Motivation and Action – momentum without overwhelm
• Confidence in Action – showing up before confidence arrives
How This Fits the Bigger Picture
Next Step Labs are part of Street Smart Ventures’ learning ecosystem.
Many participants arrive here after:
Compass Conversations – reflective spaces for orientation and meaning-making
Some participants continue into:
GetSmart Events – practical workshops for skill-building and application
There is no required order. These labs exist to meet you where you are.
Access and Partnerships
Next Step Labs are free for participants through partner programs and community offerings.
Organizations partner with Street Smart Ventures to offer Next Step Labs as part of:
• Youth programs
• Workforce initiatives
• Education and reentry support
• Community-based services
Join a Next Step Lab
If you’re looking for support, clarity, and a way forward that doesn’t feel overwhelming, Next Step Labs offer a place to start.
Next Step Labs prioritize accessibility, dignity, and steady progress. Participation is voluntary, supportive, and designed to respect individual readiness
Registration Information
We collect:
Name
Email address
How did you hear about us?
We may also ask:
“What best describes what you’re navigating right now?”
• Feeling overwhelmed
• Transitioning, school, job, or life change
• Stuck or unsure of next steps
• Just curious or checking it out
