The People's Money (2021-2022)

Next STEPS is an initiative of the Mayor’s Action Plan for Neighborhood Safety (MAP for Neighborhood Safety) that offers one-on-one and group mentoring within a cognitive behavioral therapy-based curriculum designed to help young adults between the ages of 16-24, make the attitudinal and behavioral changes necessary to avoid criminal activity and reengage with education, work and community. The Department Of Probation (DOP) contracts with nonprofit organizations in targeted neighborhoods to provide a transformative mentoring program designed to intervene at a critical point in the lives of young adults who are: actively engaged and/or involved in serious violent activity (including domestic violence) and/or gang‐affiliated, who reside in or near targeted NYCHA housing developments throughout Brownsville.

The core components of the Next STEPS model includes:

1. Group process that encourages participants to become an important support system for each other
2. Curriculum based on cognitive behavioral principles delivered by culturally appropriate mentors, “credible messengers”
3. Mentors who are available for intensive support, advice, and guidance
4. Incorporation of positive youth development values, principles and practices
5. Nutritious meals served before start of each session (meeting twice per week)
6. Participant stipends
7. Outside Field Trips/Sports Activities
8. Case management