BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Next Step Fund, Inc. - ECPv6.15.18//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.nextstepnet.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Next Step Fund, Inc. REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20270314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20271107T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250203 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250503 DTSTAMP:20260403T142248 CREATED:20250115T175747Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250115T175747Z UID:10863-1738540800-1746230399@www.nextstepnet.org SUMMARY:STRIVE (2025 Spring Semester) DESCRIPTION:Next Step STRIVE is a FREE weekly mentorship program for teens living with Sickle Cell Disease in Boston\, Washington\, D.C.\, New York City and Philadelphia. As a STRIVE student\, you’ll get one-on-one academic support and access to a community of peers in a safe and welcoming environment. Sound cool? Sign up below and join us! \n\nHere’s what you can do at STRIVE each week: \n1. Get Homework Help When You Need It\nAttend weekly virtual sessions with a dedicated mentor. \n2. Connect and Destress with Friends Who Get It\nAttend a bi-monthly in-person programs focused on community building and fun. \n3. Learn\, Collaborate and Give Back Together\nAnd once a month\, STRIVE students from Boston\, Washington D.C.\, New York City and Philadelphia meet online for some real talk—and action! You might hear from a panel of young adults living with Sickle Cell Disease\, learn tips for pain management\, work together on a community service project to lift the spirits of kids in the hospital or maybe even write a song together. \n\nSign up to join Next Step STRIVE \nNext Step STRIVE groups meet from February 3rd through May 2nd. Just hearing about STRIVE? No problem\, you can join anytime—there’s no deadline. Sign up by filling out the short form below and one of our team members will be in touch with more details to get you started. \nStill have questions? \nEmail Richard Martinez\, Next Step Mentorship Coordinator\, at richard@nextstepnet.org \n\n\n \n \n Next Step STRIVE Sign-Up\n \n \n What Program/City are you applying for?*Boston AreaNew York City AreaWashington D.C. AreaNew Haven\, CT AreaPhiladelphia\, PA AreaWhere do you receive your care?*How did you hear about us?*\n \n Google Search\n \n \n Social Media\n \n \n Medical Provider\n \n \n Peer\n When is the best time to reach you?*\n \n \n Morning (before noon)\n \n \n \n Afternoon (noon to 5pm)\n \n \n \n Evening (5pm or after)\n Student's Name*\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Student's Phone*Student's Email*\n \n Parent/Guardian's Name*\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Parent/Guardian's Phone*Parent/Guardian's Email*\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://www.nextstepnet.org/event/strive-2025-spring-semester/ CATEGORIES:Program,Sickle Cell ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.nextstepnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Screenshot-2024-12-11-at-1.59.11 PM.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250411 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250414 DTSTAMP:20260403T142248 CREATED:20241223T160041Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250212T174345Z UID:10822-1744329600-1744588799@www.nextstepnet.org SUMMARY:2025 Spring Campference DESCRIPTION:We are hosting our 2025 Spring Campference for young adults\, ages 18-29\, living with a chronic illness from Friday\, April 11th to Sunday\, April 13th at the Hampton Inn & Suites Watertown Boston in Watertown\, MA. \nPart camp\, part conference\, our 3-day Spring Campference fosters friendships and community with peers who “get it.” At a Next Step Spring Campference\, you can: \n\nEngage in educational workshops\nRecharge with new friends\nJoin the music and art mayhem\nCreate fun\, life-changing moments\nEmpower yourself with information and resources\n\n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n  \nSounds good?! Spots for our popular Spring Campference fill up fast so we encourage you to submit your application below as soon as possible to secure your spot! \nIn Their Words \nOur participants say it best. Read stories from young people who have attended a Next Step Campference. \nDo you have questions before signing up? \nEmail Emily Efland\, Next Step Community Program Coordinator at emily@nextstepnet.org or Kepler Jeudy\, Next Step Program Director\, at kepler@nextstepnet.org if you have any questions about our 2025 Spring Campference for young adults living with a chronic illness. \n  \n\n \n \n 2025 Spring Campference\n Please fill out this application if you are interested in joining our 2025 Spring Campference. \n \n Have you been on a Next Step Campference before?*\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n Attended Introductory Event Only (e.g. Next Step Mobile at hospital\, community center\, etc.)\n \n \n \n No\n How did you hear about the Next Step campference?*\n \n \n Next Step Outreach (Email or Event)\n \n \n \n Google/Internet Search\n \n \n \n Social Media (Instagram\, etc.)\n \n \n \n Family Member/Trusted Adult\n \n \n \n Another Participant\n \n \n \n Medical Staff\n \n \n \n Other\n \n \n \n \n If medical staff\, please include name\, position and hospital:*Name*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n NicknameAddress* \n \n \n Street Address\n \n \n Address Line 2\n \n \n City\n \n \n State\n AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces Pacific\n \n ZIP Code\n \n \n \n Phone*Alternate PhoneEmail*\n \n Preferred mode of contact?*\n \n Email\n \n \n Cell Phone (Call)\n \n \n Cell Phone (Text)\n Current OccupationEmployer or SchoolAgeBirthday\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Race/EthnicityGenderPronouns (he/him\, she/her\, they/them)What is the highest level of education you have received so far?T-shirt sizeHospital or Clinic where you receive medical care?What do you hope to get out of the Next Step campference experience?What topic(s) do you most want to learn about at Campference?PARENT/GUARDIAN AND EMERGENCY CONTACTName*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n RelationshipPhoneEmail\n \n Medical OverviewDiagnosisDate of Diagnosis\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Are you on active Treatment?\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n Food Allergies & ReactionsEnvironmental Allergies (bee\, latex\, etc) & ReactionsDo you carry an Epi-Pen?\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n Are there are any special accommodations you would need (dietary\, mobility\, equipment\, etc.)? Please explain:Are there any activity limitations?Please list any medications you take\, and how often.Please take a moment to describe what symptoms you display if you’ve overextended yourself or are starting to get sick. How can we best support you in such a situation?INSURANCE INFORMATION(Please bring your insurance card to the program)Insurance Co:Policy #:Name of Insured:\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n PrescriptionPlan #:Telephone #:Over the Counter Medications: I—or my child\, if under the age of 18—has permission to take over-the-counter medication\, for the dosage amount suggested by the pharmaceutical maker\, if feeling unwell due to symptoms such as headache or stomachache. Please check appropriate boxes and provide your signature below:I—or my child\, if under the age of 18—may take over-the-counter medication that I brought:*\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n I—or my child\, if under the age of 18—may take OTC medication provided by a staff person:*\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n I—or my child\, if under the age of 18—should not\, under any circumstances\, be given the following OTC medications:Please indicate:*\n \n \n I consent\n \n \n \n I do not consent\n CONSENT AGREEMENTAUTHORIZATION AND RELEASE\nThis Consent Agreement\, Authorization and Release must be read and signed to be eligible to attend Next Step's Young Adult Campference.\n\nRELEASE OF LIABILITY\nI understand that occasionally accidents occur during campference activities and that participants may sustain serious personal injury and property damages as a consequence thereof. Knowing the risks of campference activities\, nevertheless\, and in consideration of my acceptance for participation at a campference\, I hereby agree to assume those risks and to hold harmless Next Step\, and all campference agents\, representatives\, employees and volunteers\, from any and all liability\, claims for personal injury and/or property damage\, costs\, expenses and damages arising out of or connected in any way with my participation in campference activities. Further\, I acknowledge that Next Step accepts no responsibility for the loss\, damage or theft of my personal property.\n\nI acknowledge and understand there is an increased risk that Covid-19 and other communicable illnesses can be transmitted in any public place\, including an in person Next Step program. Next Step seeks to protect its staff and participants during any and all in person activities. By attending a Next Step in person program\, I agree to assume these risks.\n\nAdditionally\, as a precondition to participating in a Next Step program I understand to participate in person I must be up to date on my vaccinations against Measles\, Mumps\, Rubella\, Varicella\, and Pertussis (unless medically exempt with a doctor's note). I must also have my provider complete a medical application every 12 months to participate in person at a Next Step program.\nPlease indicate:*\n \n \n I consent\n \n \n \n I do not consent\n CONSENT FOR MEDICAL TREATMENTThe undersigned hereby grants permission to the medical staff or consulting physicians at Next Step to administer medication and provide medical care for me\, including any medical emergency care required. I also give my consent for any emergency transportation deemed necessary.Please indicate:*\n \n \n I consent\n \n \n \n I do not consent\n Community Agreement/Rules of ConductThe young adult campference is a close-knit community; therefore we ask that you agree to a few things that will promote being together in a safe manner. Please sign this Community Agreement\, which asks that you agree to conduct yourself ethically and respectfully while living in the program: \n\n\nDelegates are to demonstrate a high degree of maturity and self-respect\, taking into account the rights and feelings of others.\nDelegates are responsible for charges incurred\, e.g. vandalism and breakage of property\, etc.\nDelegates are to adhere to curfews\, directives and designated schedule times.\nSuitable attire is to be worn during the campference workshops and activities.\nSmoking is prohibited indoors.\n\nThe Following Behaviors are grounds for Immediate Dismissal: \n\nPhysical confrontations or assaults. This means harming\, attempting to harm\, or threatening to harm another person\, with or without a weapon or dangerous object\nBullying. As defined as unwanted\, aggressive behavior that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated\, or has the potential to be repeated\, over time. Verbal bullying is saying or writing mean things. Social bullying involves hurting someone’s reputation or relationships and can include leaving someone out on purpose\, telling other’s not to be friends with an individual\, spreading rumors\, embarrassing someone.\nStealing or damaging property\nPossession or use of drugs and alcohol\nSexual misconduct or sexual assault\nPlease indicate:*\n \n \n I agree to the community agreement\n \n \n \n I do not agree to the community agreement\n PHOTO AND INFORMATION RELEASEI give Next Step permission to photograph and use pictures or visual and/or audiotapes of me in professional or fundraising activities. On occasion\, with this permission\, participant photographs may be included on the Next Step website\, on a bulletin board\, video\, newsletter\, campference album\, or in personal photographs. Next Step respects the privacy of participants and does not allow unauthorized visitors to photograph the campference or participants. In addition\, by signing below\, I give Next Step permission to give my name\, address and/or phone number to groups or individuals wishing to support Next Step by inviting me to an event or by sending me information related to Next Step. This list will not be sold or given to anyone else for any other reason.Please check appropriate box and provide your signature below:*\n \n \n I agree to the photo release\n \n \n \n I do not agree to the photo release\n Please SignBy signing below\, I hereby acknowledge that I have read and fully understand the terms and expectations of the program. All information provided is current and accurate to the best of my knowledge. Name*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n Date*\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Please check this box to indicate that the above signature will serve as your electronic signature\n \n (Delegate or Legal Guardian if the Delegate is not over the age of 18)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://www.nextstepnet.org/event/2025-spring-campference/ CATEGORIES:Cancer,HIV,Program,Rare Genetic Disorder,Sickle Cell ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nextstepnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/IMG_9447.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250421 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250422 DTSTAMP:20260403T142248 CREATED:20241004T172636Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250225T220523Z UID:10498-1745193600-1745279999@www.nextstepnet.org SUMMARY:Support our Boston Marathon team DESCRIPTION:Team Next Step is running the Boston Marathon for an 11th time! Five amazing athletes have volunteered to run the 26.2 mile race for Next Step and raise important funds to support our community\, music and mentorship programs for seriously ill teens and young adults between the ages of 13-29. Their goal is to raise $65\,000 as a team. The money raised will help us empower even more deserving young people to create their brightest future as they transition to adulthood. Please help our runners cross their fundraising finish line before Marathon Monday! \nClick here to donate to our 2025 Boston Marathon team. \nThank you to the Bank of America Marathon Charity Program for welcoming us back to run this historic race! We are proud to be an official charity team of this wonderful program. \n  \n  URL:https://www.nextstepnet.org/event/run-the-2025-boston-marathon/ CATEGORIES:Fundraising ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.nextstepnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/NextStep_LogoNoTag_Vertical_Web.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250422T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250422T191500 DTSTAMP:20260403T142248 CREATED:20250331T211350Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250401T180619Z UID:10986-1745344800-1745349300@www.nextstepnet.org SUMMARY:Next Step Guide to Adulting Series: Budgeting and Money Mindset DESCRIPTION:Want to get more comfortable thinking about money? Have questions about how to budget? Join our Guide to Adulting Series: Budgeting and Money Mindset on Tuesday\, April 22nd from 6pm to 7:15pm (EST) to learn helpful tips from an expert alongside your peers. This virtual program is for teens and young adults\, ages 16-29\, living with a chronic illness. We hope to see you there! \nQUESTIONS? \nEmail Emily Efland\, Next Step Community Program Coordinator: emily@nextstepnet.org. \n\n \n \n Guide to Adulting Series\n Fill out the form below to join our next Guide to Adulting Series. \n \n Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Email(Required)\n \n Phone(Required)Age?(Required)Have you been to a Next Step program?(Required)\n \n Yes\n \n \n Attended Introductory Event Only (e.g. Next Step Mobile at hospital\, community center\, etc.)\n \n \n No\n How did you hear about us?(Required)\n \n Next Step Outreach (Email or Event)\n \n \n Google/Internet Search\n \n \n Social Media (Instagram\, etc.)\n \n \n Family Member/Trusted Adult\n \n \n Another Participant\n \n \n Medical Staff\n \n \n Other\n What is your diagnosis?(Required)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://www.nextstepnet.org/event/next-step-guide-to-adulting-series-budgeting-money-mindset/ LOCATION:Online!\, United States CATEGORIES:Cancer,HIV,Program,Rare Genetic Disorder,Sickle Cell ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nextstepnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/November-program-e1743533379643.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250510T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250510T180000 DTSTAMP:20260403T142248 CREATED:20250425T135408Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T160831Z UID:11036-1746892800-1746900000@www.nextstepnet.org SUMMARY:PorchFest Somerville 2025 DESCRIPTION:Next Step is participating in PorchFest Somerville 2025 and you’re invited! Join us on Saturday\, May 10th from 4pm to 6pm in Somerville\, MA for a feel-good afternoon of live music\, community connection\, and inspiration. \nEmail Alice Sich\, Next Step Events and Operations Coordinator\, to RSVP: alice@nextstepnet.org \nWhether you’re dropping by to enjoy some tunes\, meet new people in your community\,  or learn about our powerful work with teens and young adults living with a serious chronic illness — this is your moment to plug into something meaningful (and seriously fun). \nBring your friends\, your curiosity\, and your love for great music — we can’t wait to meet you and share what Next Step is all about. \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n\n \n  \nWhat’s Happening on Our Porch \nLive music from amazing music therapists \nA peek into our free programs that empower young people to create their brightest future \nFun\, welcoming vibes that capture the PorchFest spirit \n  \nAddress \n8 Calvin Street\, Somerville\, MA 02143 \nClick here to see address on Google Maps. URL:https://www.nextstepnet.org/event/porchfest-somerville-2025/ CATEGORIES:Cancer,Fundraising,HIV,Program,Rare Genetic Disorder,Sickle Cell ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nextstepnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Porchfest-photo.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250710 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250728 DTSTAMP:20260403T142248 CREATED:20250303T142323Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250521T171245Z UID:10916-1752105600-1753660799@www.nextstepnet.org SUMMARY:2025 Summer Campference DESCRIPTION:We are hosting two different sessions of our FREE residential Summer Campference program for young people\, ages 16-24\, living with a chronic illness at the Warren Conference Center and Inn in Ashland\, MA. Part camp\, part conference\, our 4-day Summer Campference fosters friendships and community with peers who “get it.” At a Next Step Summer Campference\, you can: \n\nEngage in educational workshops\nRecharge with new friends\nJoin the music and art mayhem\nCreate fun\, life-changing moments\nEmpower yourself with information and resources\n\n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n\n \n  \nWhich session is best for you this summer? \nSession 1: Thursday\, July 10th to Sunday\, July 13th \nSession 2: Thursday\, July 24th to Sunday\, July 27th \nSpots for our popular Summer Campference fill up fast so we encourage you to submit your application below as soon as possible to secure your spot! \n  \nIn Their Words \nOur participants say it best. Read stories from young people who have attended a Next Step Campference. \n  \nDo you have questions before signing up? \nEmail Kepler Jeudy\, Next Step Program Director\, at kepler@nextstepnet.org if you have any questions about our 2025 Summer Campference program for young people living with a chronic illness. \n  \n\n \n \n 2025 Summer Campference Application\n Please fill out this application if you are interested in joining our Summer Campference. \n \n Which session are you interested in?*\n \n Session 1: July 10-13\n \n \n Session 2: July 24-27\n We are hosting two different sessions of our Summer Campference program for teens and young adults\, ages 16-24\, living with a chronic illness. This program will be held in Ashland\, MA at the Warren Conference Center & Inn.Have you been to a Next Step Program before?*\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n Attended Introductory Event Only (e.g. Next Step Mobile at hospital\, community center\, etc.)\n \n \n \n No\n How did you hear about the Next Step campference?*\n \n \n Next Step Outreach (Email or Event)\n \n \n \n Google/Internet Search\n \n \n \n Social Media (Instagram\, etc.)\n \n \n \n Family Member/Trusted Adult\n \n \n \n Another Participant\n \n \n \n Medical Staff\n \n \n \n Other\n \n \n \n \n If medical staff\, please include name\, position and hospital:*Name*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n NicknameAddress* \n \n \n Street Address\n \n \n Address Line 2\n \n \n City\n \n \n State\n AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces Pacific\n \n ZIP Code\n \n \n \n Phone*Alternate PhoneEmail*\n \n Preferred mode of contact?*\n \n Email\n \n \n Cell Phone (Call)\n \n \n Cell Phone (Text)\n Current OccupationEmployer or SchoolAgeBirthday\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Race/EthnicityGenderPronouns (he/him\, she/her\, they/them)What is the highest level of education you have received so far?T-shirt sizeHospital or Clinic where you receive medical care?What do you hope to get out of the Next Step campference experience?What topic(s) do you most want to learn about at Campference?PARENT/GUARDIAN AND EMERGENCY CONTACTName*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n RelationshipPhoneEmail\n \n Medical OverviewDiagnosisDate of Diagnosis\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Are you on active Treatment?\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n Food Allergies & ReactionsEnvironmental Allergies (bee\, latex\, etc) & ReactionsDo you carry an Epi-Pen?\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n Are there are any special accommodations you would need (dietary\, mobility\, equipment\, etc.)? Please explain:Are there any activity limitations?Please list any medications you take\, and how often.Please take a moment to describe what symptoms you display if you’ve overextended yourself or are starting to get sick. How can we best support you in such a situation?INSURANCE INFORMATION(Please bring your insurance card to the program)Insurance Co:Policy #:Name of Insured:\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n PrescriptionPlan #:Telephone #:Over the Counter Medications: I—or my child\, if under the age of 18—has permission to take over-the-counter medication\, for the dosage amount suggested by the pharmaceutical maker\, if feeling unwell due to symptoms such as headache or stomachache. Please check appropriate boxes and provide your signature below:I—or my child\, if under the age of 18—may take over-the-counter medication that I brought:*\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n I—or my child\, if under the age of 18—may take OTC medication provided by a staff person:*\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n I—or my child\, if under the age of 18—should not\, under any circumstances\, be given the following OTC medications:Please indicate:*\n \n \n I consent\n \n \n \n I do not consent\n CONSENT AGREEMENTAUTHORIZATION AND RELEASE\nThis Consent Agreement\, Authorization and Release must be read and signed to be eligible to attend Next Step's Young Adult Campference.\n\nRELEASE OF LIABILITY\nI understand that occasionally accidents occur during campference activities and that participants may sustain serious personal injury and property damages as a consequence thereof. Knowing the risks of campference activities\, nevertheless\, and in consideration of my acceptance for participation at a campference\, I hereby agree to assume those risks and to hold harmless Next Step\, and all campference agents\, representatives\, employees and volunteers\, from any and all liability\, claims for personal injury and/or property damage\, costs\, expenses and damages arising out of or connected in any way with my participation in campference activities. Further\, I acknowledge that Next Step accepts no responsibility for the loss\, damage or theft of my personal property.\n\nI acknowledge and understand there is an increased risk that communicable illnesses can be transmitted in any public place\, including an in person Next Step program. Next Step seeks to protect its staff and participants during any and all in person activities. By attending a Next Step in person program\, I agree to assume these risks.\n\nAdditionally\, as a precondition to participating in a Next Step program I understand to participate in person I must be up to date on my vaccinations against Measles\, Mumps\, Rubella\, Varicella\, and Pertussis (unless medically exempt with a doctor's note). I must also have my provider complete a medical application every 12 months to participate in person at a Next Step program.\nPlease indicate:*\n \n \n I consent\n \n \n \n I do not consent\n CONSENT FOR MEDICAL TREATMENTThe undersigned hereby grants permission to the medical staff or consulting physicians at Next Step to administer medication and provide medical care for me\, including any medical emergency care required. I also give my consent for any emergency transportation deemed necessary.Please indicate:*\n \n \n I consent\n \n \n \n I do not consent\n Community Agreement/Rules of ConductThe young adult campference is a close-knit community; therefore we ask that you agree to a few things that will promote being together in a safe manner. Please sign this Community Agreement\, which asks that you agree to conduct yourself ethically and respectfully while living in the program: \n\n\nDelegates are to demonstrate a high degree of maturity and self-respect\, taking into account the rights and feelings of others.\nDelegates are responsible for charges incurred\, e.g. vandalism and breakage of property\, etc.\nDelegates are to adhere to curfews\, directives and designated schedule times.\nSuitable attire is to be worn during the campference workshops and activities.\nSmoking is prohibited indoors.\n\nThe Following Behaviors are grounds for Immediate Dismissal: \n\nPhysical confrontations or assaults. This means harming\, attempting to harm\, or threatening to harm another person\, with or without a weapon or dangerous object\nBullying. As defined as unwanted\, aggressive behavior that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated\, or has the potential to be repeated\, over time. Verbal bullying is saying or writing mean things. Social bullying involves hurting someone’s reputation or relationships and can include leaving someone out on purpose\, telling other’s not to be friends with an individual\, spreading rumors\, embarrassing someone.\nStealing or damaging property\nPossession or use of drugs and alcohol\nSexual misconduct or sexual assault\nPlease indicate:*\n \n \n I agree to the community agreement\n \n \n \n I do not agree to the community agreement\n PHOTO AND INFORMATION RELEASEI give Next Step permission to photograph and use pictures or visual and/or audiotapes of me in professional or fundraising activities. On occasion\, with this permission\, participant photographs may be included on the Next Step website\, on a bulletin board\, video\, newsletter\, campference album\, or in personal photographs. Next Step respects the privacy of participants and does not allow unauthorized visitors to photograph the campference or participants. In addition\, by signing below\, I give Next Step permission to give my name\, address and/or phone number to groups or individuals wishing to support Next Step by inviting me to an event or by sending me information related to Next Step. This list will not be sold or given to anyone else for any other reason.Please check appropriate box and provide your signature below:*\n \n \n I agree to the photo release\n \n \n \n I do not agree to the photo release\n Please SignBy signing below\, I hereby acknowledge that I have read and fully understand the terms and expectations of the program. All information provided is current and accurate to the best of my knowledge. Name*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n Date*\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Please check this box to indicate that the above signature will serve as your electronic signature\n \n (Delegate or Legal Guardian if the Delegate is not over the age of 18)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://www.nextstepnet.org/event/2025-next-step-summer-campference/ CATEGORIES:Cancer,HIV,Program,Rare Genetic Disorder,Sickle Cell ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nextstepnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/sc-scaled-e1741013156741.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250817T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250817T120000 DTSTAMP:20260403T142248 CREATED:20240906T184348Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250807T162006Z UID:10354-1755421200-1755432000@www.nextstepnet.org SUMMARY:2025 ASICS Falmouth Road Race DESCRIPTION:We have 13 amazing volunteers on our 2025 Falmouth Road Race team this year. Each athlete on Team Next Step has trained all summer for the race on Sunday\, August 17th in Falmouth\, MA. They are ready to conquer the 7-mile race in support of our community\, music and mentorship programs for seriously ill young people. Will you help them cross their fundraising finish line? $5\, $50\, $500. Every dollar counts. Thank you for being part of the team! CLICK HERE to donate to one runner or the whole team. \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n\n \nYour Impact \nWatch seriously ill young people describe their Next Step experience. You’re changing lives. \nQuestions? \nEmail Namrata Gupta\, Next Step Development Director\, if you have questions about joining our 2025 Falmouth Road Race: At-Home Edition team at namrata@nextstepnet.org. \n\n \n \n 2025 ASICS Falmouth Road Race: At-Home Edition Application\n Please fill out the form below if you are ready to join Team Next Step. \n \n Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Phone(Required)Email(Required)\n \n Address(Required) \n \n \n \n Street Address\n \n \n Address Line 2\n \n \n City\n \n \n State / Province / Region\n \n AfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBonaire\, Sint Eustatius and SabaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBouvet IslandBrazilBritish Indian Ocean TerritoryBrunei DarussalamBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCambodiaCameroonCanadaCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaChristmas IslandCocos IslandsColombiaComorosCongoCongo\, Democratic Republic of theCook IslandsCosta RicaCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzechiaCôte d'IvoireDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEswatiniEthiopiaFalkland IslandsFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench GuianaFrench PolynesiaFrench Southern TerritoriesGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGibraltarGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuadeloupeGuamGuatemalaGuernseyGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHeard Island and McDonald IslandsHoly SeeHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsle of ManIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJerseyJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiKorea\, Democratic People's Republic ofKorea\, Republic ofKuwaitKyrgyzstanLao People's Democratic RepublicLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacaoMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMartiniqueMauritaniaMauritiusMayotteMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMontserratMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew CaledoniaNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNiueNorfolk IslandNorth MacedoniaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine\, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPitcairnPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussian FederationRwandaRéunionSaint BarthélemySaint Helena\, Ascension and Tristan da CunhaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint MartinSaint Pierre and MiquelonSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth Georgia and the South Sandwich IslandsSouth SudanSpainSri LankaSudanSurinameSvalbard and Jan MayenSwedenSwitzerlandSyria Arab RepublicTaiwanTajikistanTanzania\, the United Republic ofThailandTimor-LesteTogoTokelauTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkmenistanTurks and Caicos IslandsTuvaluTürkiyeUS Minor Outlying IslandsUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuelaViet NamVirgin Islands\, BritishVirgin Islands\, U.S.Wallis and FutunaWestern SaharaYemenZambiaZimbabweÅland Islands\n Country\n \n \n Date of Birth(Required)\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Runner Release Waiver and Fundraising Agreement(Required)\n \n I will follow the rules and regulations of the road race event.\n \n \n I will release the road race event organizers for any responsibility in case of an accident\, illness or injury.\n \n \n I acknowledge that this road race requires physical activity and there are possible risk and danger.\n \n \n I allow my photo to be taken during the event and used for event advertising and marketing.\n Select AllRunner signature(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://www.nextstepnet.org/event/2025-falmouth-road-race/ CATEGORIES:Fundraising ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nextstepnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Falmouth-2024.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250908 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251014 DTSTAMP:20260403T142248 CREATED:20250718T133354Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250718T133354Z UID:11265-1757289600-1760399999@www.nextstepnet.org SUMMARY:Next Step Songbook (Fall 2025) DESCRIPTION:Do you experience complicated feelings around life\, your medical journey\, connections with others? Are you struggling with your confidence and using your voice with your doctors\, at school\, work or in your social life? \nNext Step Songbook is about finding your voice and your story through songwriting. Kimberly\, Next Step Song Studio Director\, will help you tell the story you want to tell. Songbook is a safe space to be you – to live your life in the midst of challenge or joy. You can express yourself through writing song lyrics\, reflect on your life\, practice using your voice and tell the story you want to tell about yourself. \nProgram Description: \n\nFREE virtual program\nFind your voice\, develop your self confidence and learn other life skills\nFor young people\, ages 16-29\, living with a serious illness\n3-4 week session starting in September 2025\n\n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n\n \n2025 Fall Dates \nCycle 1: Mid-September to Mid-October \nCycle 2: Late October to Early-December \nQuestions? \nEmail Casey Casey\, Next Step Partnership Coordinator\, if you have questions about Next Step Songbook: casey@nextstepnet.org \n\n \n \n Next Step Songbook Application\n Please fill out the form below if you are interested in joining this online program. \n \n Name*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n NicknameHave you been to a Next Step Program before?\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n Attended Introductory Event Only (e.g. Next Step Mobile at hospital\, community center\, etc.)\n \n \n \n No\n How did you hear about Next Step?\n \n \n Next Step Outreach (Email or Event)\n \n \n \n Google/Internet Search\n \n \n \n Social Media (Instagram\, etc.)\n \n \n \n Family Member/Trusted Adult\n \n \n \n Another Participant\n \n \n \n Medical Staff\n \n \n \n \n Address* \n \n \n Street Address\n \n \n Address Line 2\n \n \n City\n \n \n State / Province / Region\n \n \n ZIP / Postal Code\n \n \n Country\n AfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBonaire\, Sint Eustatius and SabaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBouvet IslandBrazilBritish Indian Ocean TerritoryBrunei DarussalamBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCambodiaCameroonCanadaCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaChristmas IslandCocos IslandsColombiaComorosCongoCongo\, Democratic Republic of theCook IslandsCosta RicaCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzechiaCôte d'IvoireDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEswatiniEthiopiaFalkland IslandsFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench GuianaFrench PolynesiaFrench Southern TerritoriesGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGibraltarGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuadeloupeGuamGuatemalaGuernseyGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHeard Island and McDonald IslandsHoly SeeHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsle of ManIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJerseyJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiKorea\, Democratic People's Republic ofKorea\, Republic ofKuwaitKyrgyzstanLao People's Democratic RepublicLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacaoMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMartiniqueMauritaniaMauritiusMayotteMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMontserratMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew CaledoniaNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNiueNorfolk IslandNorth MacedoniaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine\, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPitcairnPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussian FederationRwandaRéunionSaint BarthélemySaint Helena\, Ascension and Tristan da CunhaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint MartinSaint Pierre and MiquelonSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth Georgia and the South Sandwich IslandsSouth SudanSpainSri LankaSudanSurinameSvalbard and Jan MayenSwedenSwitzerlandSyria Arab RepublicTaiwanTajikistanTanzania\, the United Republic ofThailandTimor-LesteTogoTokelauTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkmenistanTurks and Caicos IslandsTuvaluTürkiyeUS Minor Outlying IslandsUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuelaViet NamVirgin Islands\, BritishVirgin Islands\, U.S.Wallis and FutunaWestern SaharaYemenZambiaZimbabweÅland Islands \n \n \n Phone*Alternate PhoneEmail*\n \n Preferred mode of contact?*\n \n Email\n \n \n Cell Phone (Call)\n \n \n Cell Phone (Text)\n Current OccupationEmployer or SchoolAgeBirthday\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Race/EthnicityGenderPronouns (he/him\, she/her\, they/them)What is the highest level of education you have received so far?Hospital or Clinic where you receive medical care?PARENT/GUARDIAN AND EMERGENCY CONTACTName*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n RelationshipPhoneEmail\n \n Medical OverviewDiagnosis*Food Allergies & ReactionsEnvironmental Allergies (bee\, latex\, etc) & ReactionsDo you carry an Epi-Pen?\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n Are there are any special accommodations you would need (dietary\, mobility\, equipment\, etc.)? Please explain:Are there any activity limitations?Community Agreement/Rules of Conduct*Let’s make a plan for when life or illness or school or work or family\, happens.* Thank you for making a commitment to yourself. In signing this document\, you are agreeing to work on your songwriting in collaboration with a Next Step Therapeutic Songwriter. This is such an empowering moment you are choosing to grow into\, and we want to encourage you to take care of your experience. Songbook only works if you put in the creative and expressive work. As you step into your stretch zone with songwriting and finding your voice\, at times there may be creative challenges. Just know that throughout the Songbook process\, you will be supported. Here are the guidelines and commitments that we are expecting from you:*\n \n 1. Participants commit to staying in Songbook for the full 5-weeks\n \n \n 2. Participants agree to communicate honestly and openly with their Therapeutic Songwriter - specifically\, during studios when collaborating on their song\, when they need to cancel or reschedule their studio for that week\, and if they have a medical\, family\, work or school event that conflicts with their Songbook studio or commitment\n \n \n 3. Participants agree to work on finding\, and listening to\, their voice\, and building up their self-confidence through their songwriting experience\n \n \n 4. Participants will meet with their Therapeutic Songwriter on a weekly basis\, virtually through zoom\, to advance their original song towards production and completion\n \n \n 5. Participants agree to come prepared to meetings to work on writing and developing their song – and all song parts – lyrics\, rhythm\, harmony\, melody and style\n \n \n 6. Participants agree to follow through on all songwriting and song-creating tasks needed to move towards song completion\n \n \n 7. Participants agree to be timely to all meetings and interactions with their Therapeutic Songwriter\n Please select as an indication that you will adhere to the code of conduct.The Following Behaviors are grounds for Immediate Dismissal:*\n \n 1. Physical confrontations or assaults. This means harming\, attempting to harm\, or threatening to harm another person\, with or without a weapon or dangerous object\n \n \n 2. Bullying. As defined as unwanted\, aggressive behavior that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated\, or has the potential to be repeated\, over time. Verbal bullying is saying or writing mean things. Social bullying involves hurting someone’s reputation or relationships and can include leaving someone out on purpose\, telling other’s not to be friends with an individual\, spreading rumors\, embarrassing someone.\n \n \n 3. Stealing or damaging property\n \n \n 4. Possession or use of drugs and alcohol\n \n \n 5. Sexual misconduct or sexual assault\n \n \n 6. Leaving without permission\n \n \n 7. The possession of any type of weapon\n Please select as an indication that you understand the behaviors that are unacceptable at the program. Please indicate:*\n \n \n I agree to the community agreement\n \n \n \n I do not agree to the community agreement\n PHOTO AND INFORMATION RELEASEI give Next Step permission to photograph and use pictures or visual and/or audiotapes of me in professional or fundraising activities. On occasion\, with this permission\, participant photographs may be included on the Next Step website\, on a bulletin board\, video\, newsletter\, campference album\, or in personal photographs. Next Step respects the privacy of participants and does not allow unauthorized visitors to photograph the campference or participants. In addition\, by signing below\, I give Next Step permission to give my name\, address and/or phone number to groups or individuals wishing to support Next Step by inviting me to an event or by sending me information related to Next Step. This list will not be sold or given to anyone else for any other reason.Please check appropriate box and provide your signature below:*\n \n \n I agree to the photo release\n \n \n \n I do not agree to the photo release\n Please SignBy signing below\, I hereby acknowledge that I have read and fully understand the terms and expectations of the program. All information provided is current and accurate to the best of my knowledge. Name*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n Date*\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Please check this box to indicate that the above signature will serve as your electronic signature\n \n (Delegate or Legal Guardian if the Delegate is not over the age of 18)\n UntitledFirst ChoiceSecond ChoiceThird Choice\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://www.nextstepnet.org/event/next-step-songbook-fall-2025/ CATEGORIES:Cancer,HIV,Program,Rare Genetic Disorder,Sickle Cell ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nextstepnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Next-Step-Kyle-Klein-111-KKR55219.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250929 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260503 DTSTAMP:20260403T142249 CREATED:20250528T151041Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251119T192828Z UID:11114-1759104000-1777766399@www.nextstepnet.org SUMMARY:STRIVE (2025-2026 academic year) DESCRIPTION:Next Step STRIVE is a FREE weekly mentorship program for teens\, ages 13-18\, living with a chronic illness in Boston\, Washington\, D.C.\, New York City\, New Haven and Philadelphia. As a STRIVE student\, you’ll get one-on-one academic support and access to a community of peers in a safe and welcoming environment. Sound cool? Sign up below and join us! \n\nHere’s what you can do at STRIVE each week: \n1. Get Homework Help When You Need It\nAttend weekly virtual sessions with a dedicated mentor. \n2. Connect and Destress with Friends Who Get It\nAttend a bi-monthly in-person programs focused on community building and fun. \n3. Learn\, Collaborate and Give Back Together\nAnd once a month\, STRIVE students from Boston\, Washington D.C.\, New York City\, New Haven and Philadelphia meet online for some real talk—and action! You might hear from a panel of young adults living with a chronic illness\, learn tips for health management\, work together on a community service project to lift the spirits of kids in the hospital or maybe even write a song together. \n\nSign up to join Next Step STRIVE \nNext Step STRIVE groups meet from September 29th through May 2nd. Just hearing about STRIVE? No problem\, you can join anytime—there’s no deadline. Sign up by filling out the short form below and one of our team members will be in touch with more details to get you started. \nStill have questions? \nEmail Richard Martinez\, Next Step Mentorship Coordinator\, at richard@nextstepnet.org \n\n \n \n STRIVE Registration\n \n \n What city program are you applying for:*\n \n Boston Area\n \n \n New York City Area\n \n \n Washington D.C. Area\n \n \n New Haven\, CT Area\n \n \n Philadelphia\, PA Area\n STRIVE is for teens\, 13-18 year-olds\, living with a chronic illness. For more info please call Kepler at 617-864-2921Have you been to a Next Step program before?*\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n Attended Introductory Event Only (e.g. Next Step Mobile at hospital\, community center\, etc.)\n \n \n \n No\n How did you hear about the Next Step program?*\n \n \n Next Step Outreach (Email or Event)\n \n \n \n Google/Internet Search\n \n \n \n Social Media (Instagram\, etc)\n \n \n \n Family Member/Trust Adult\n \n \n \n Another Participant\n \n \n \n Medical Staff\n \n \n \n Other\n \n \n \n \n If medical staff\, please include name\, position and hospital:*Name of STRIVE Participant*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n NicknameAddress* \n \n \n Street Address\n \n \n Address Line 2\n \n \n City\n \n \n State / Province / Region\n \n \n ZIP / Postal Code\n \n \n Country\n AfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBonaire\, Sint Eustatius and SabaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBouvet IslandBrazilBritish Indian Ocean TerritoryBrunei DarussalamBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCambodiaCameroonCanadaCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaChristmas IslandCocos IslandsColombiaComorosCongoCongo\, Democratic Republic of theCook IslandsCosta RicaCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzechiaCôte d'IvoireDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEswatiniEthiopiaFalkland IslandsFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench GuianaFrench PolynesiaFrench Southern TerritoriesGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGibraltarGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuadeloupeGuamGuatemalaGuernseyGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHeard Island and McDonald IslandsHoly SeeHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsle of ManIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJerseyJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiKorea\, Democratic People's Republic ofKorea\, Republic ofKuwaitKyrgyzstanLao People's Democratic RepublicLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacaoMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMartiniqueMauritaniaMauritiusMayotteMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMontserratMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew CaledoniaNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNiueNorfolk IslandNorth MacedoniaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine\, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPitcairnPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussian FederationRwandaRéunionSaint BarthélemySaint Helena\, Ascension and Tristan da CunhaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint MartinSaint Pierre and MiquelonSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth Georgia and the South Sandwich IslandsSouth SudanSpainSri LankaSudanSurinameSvalbard and Jan MayenSwedenSwitzerlandSyria Arab RepublicTaiwanTajikistanTanzania\, the United Republic ofThailandTimor-LesteTogoTokelauTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkmenistanTurks and Caicos IslandsTuvaluTürkiyeUS Minor Outlying IslandsUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuelaViet NamVirgin Islands\, BritishVirgin Islands\, U.S.Wallis and FutunaWestern SaharaYemenZambiaZimbabweÅland Islands \n \n \n Phone*Child's Cell PhoneEmail*\n \n Preferred mode of contact?*\n \n Email\n \n \n Cell Phone (Call)\n \n \n Cell Phone (Text)\n Child's SchoolAt What Time Does Your Child Leave for School?How Does Your Child Get Home from School?Child's Homeroom TeacherChild's GradeAgeChild's Birthday\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Race/EthnicityGenderPronouns (he/him\, she/her\, they/them)Hospital or Clinic where your child receive medical care?What do you/your child hope to get out of the Next Step STRIVE experience?What topic(s) do you/your child most want to learn about at STRIVE?Environmental Allergies (bee\, latex\, etc) & ReactionsDo your child carry an Epi-Pen?\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n Food Allergies & ReactionsWhat is your child's diagnosis?*Are there are any special accommodations your child would need (dietary\, mobility\, equipment\, etc.)? Please explain:Are there any activity limitations?PARENT/GUARDIAN AND EMERGENCY CONTACTName*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n RelationshipPhoneEmail\n \n INFORMED CONSENT FORMBefore my child can be accepted into the Program\, I understand that I must\n \n Discuss my child’s participation in the Program with his/her regular health care provider\n While my child is at STRIVE\n \n I understand that my child may undergo physical exertion while participating in the Program\, and that there are possibilities of injury or other complications associated with exercise\n \n \n I understand that no physician or medically trained individual will be present during the Program\n \n \n I understand that in the event physical injury occurs while my child is participating in the Program\, medical treatment and assistance will be available in the same manner and to the same extent available for injuries that my child may suffer were he/she not enrolled in the Program\n \n \n I understand that no compensation for the cost of the treatment or other losses that my child may suffer can be or is guaranteed\n \n \n In the case of an emergency or should your child have any complication from SCD while at the program in any way\, Program volunteers will seek immediate emergency medical assistance and promptly inform the Next Step's Mentorship Coordinator\, Richard Martinez\, of the incident\n \n \n I agree to waive and release all claims and causes of action that I may have or acquire against Next Step and/or any of their trustees\, officers\, employees\, agents or volunteers for injury\, loss\, or damage which I or my child may suffer which are in any way connected with participation in the Program.\n \n \n I hereby allow my child to participate in the Program. I understand that my consent will remain effective until either my child completes the Program\, or I withdraw my child from the Program.\n STRIVE QuestionaireHow much does your child know about sickle cell anemia?*\n \n Not much\n \n \n A little\n \n \n A lot\n What activities does your child like to do?How many school days has your child missed due to sickle cell?Are there challenges that your child has experienced at school that you would like to share with us?What subjects would your child like extra help on during tutoring time? Is your child taking any standardized tests this school year? If yes\, which one(s)?Is there an activity that you would be uncomfortable with or would prefer your child not to participate in?PHOTO AND INFORMATION RELEASEI give Next Step permission to photograph and use pictures or visual and/or audiotapes of me in professional or fundraising activities. On occasion\, with this permission\, participant photographs may be included on the Next Step website\, on a bulletin board\, video\, newsletter\, campference album\, or in personal photographs. Next Step respects the privacy of participants and does not allow unauthorized visitors to photograph the campference or participants. In addition\, by signing below\, I give Next Step permission to give my name\, address and/or phone number to groups or individuals wishing to support Next Step by inviting me to an event or by sending me information related to Next Step. This list will not be sold or given to anyone else for any other reason.Please check appropriate box and provide your signature below:*\n \n \n I agree to the photo release\n \n \n \n I do not agree to the photo release\n Please SignBy signing below\, I hereby acknowledge that I have read and fully understand the terms and expectations of the program. All information provided is current and accurate to the best of my knowledge.Name*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n Date*\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Please check this box to indicate that the above signature will serve as your electronic signature\n \n (Delegate or Legal Guardian if the Delegate is not over the age of 18)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://www.nextstepnet.org/event/strive-2025-2026-year/ CATEGORIES:Program,Sickle Cell ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.nextstepnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Screenshot-2024-12-11-at-1.59.11 PM.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251017 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251020 DTSTAMP:20260403T142249 CREATED:20250718T134439Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250718T134845Z UID:11267-1760659200-1760918399@www.nextstepnet.org SUMMARY:2025 Fall Campference DESCRIPTION:We are hosting our annual Fall Campference for young people living with a chronic illness from Friday\, October 17 to Sunday\, October 19\, 2025 at the Stony Point Center in Stony Point\, New York. This FREE Next Step Campference is open to young adults\, ages 18-29. \nPart camp\, part conference\, our 3-day Fall Campference fosters friendships and community with peers who “get it.” At a Next Step Fall Campference\, you can: \n\nEngage in educational workshops\nRecharge with new friends\nJoin the music and art mayhem\nCreate fun\, life-changing moments\nEmpower yourself with information and resources\n\n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n\n \n  \nSounds good?! Spots for our popular Fall Campference fill up fast so we encourage you to submit your application below as soon as possible to secure your spot! \nIn Their Words \nOur participants say it best. Read stories from young people who have attended a Next Step Campference. \nDo you have questions before signing up? \nEmail Casey Casey\, Next Step Partnership Coordinator and Nursing Director at casey@nextstepnet.org or Kepler Jeudy\, Next Step Program Director\, at kepler@nextstepnet.org if you have any questions about our 2025 Fall Campference for young people living with a chronic illness. \n\n \n \n 2025 Fall Campference Application\n Please fill out this application if you are interested in joining our Fall Campference. \n \n This Next Step Fall Campference is for young adults\, ages 18-29\, living with a chronic illness and will be held in Stony Point\, New York at the Stony Point Center.*\n \n Friday\, October 17 to Sunday\, October 19\n This Next Step Fall Campference is for young adults\, ages 18-29\, living with a chronic illness and will be held in Stony Point\, New York at the Stony Point Center.Have you been on a Next Step Campference before?*\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n Attended Introductory Event Only (e.g. Next Step Mobile at hospital\, community center\, etc.)\n \n \n \n No\n How did you hear about the Next Step campference?*\n \n \n Next Step Outreach (Email or Event)\n \n \n \n Google/Internet Search\n \n \n \n Social Media (Instagram\, etc.)\n \n \n \n Family Member/Trusted Adult\n \n \n \n Another Participant\n \n \n \n Medical Staff\n \n \n \n Other\n \n \n \n \n If medical staff\, please include name\, position and hospital:*Name*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n NicknameAddress* \n \n \n Street Address\n \n \n Address Line 2\n \n \n City\n \n \n State\n AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces Pacific\n \n ZIP Code\n \n \n \n Phone*Alternate PhoneEmail*\n \n Preferred mode of contact?*\n \n Email\n \n \n Cell Phone (Call)\n \n \n Cell Phone (Text)\n Current OccupationEmployer or SchoolAgeBirthday\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Race/EthnicityGenderPronouns (he/him\, she/her\, they/them)What is the highest level of education you have received so far?T-shirt sizeHospital or Clinic where you receive medical care?What do you hope to get out of the Next Step campference experience?What topic(s) do you most want to learn about at Campference?PARENT/GUARDIAN AND EMERGENCY CONTACTName*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n RelationshipPhoneEmail\n \n Medical OverviewDiagnosisDate of Diagnosis\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Are you on active Treatment?\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n Food Allergies & ReactionsEnvironmental Allergies (bee\, latex\, etc) & ReactionsDo you carry an Epi-Pen?\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n Are there are any special accommodations you would need (dietary\, mobility\, equipment\, etc.)? Please explain:Are there any activity limitations?Please list any medications you take\, and how often.Please take a moment to describe what symptoms you display if you’ve overextended yourself or are starting to get sick. How can we best support you in such a situation?INSURANCE INFORMATION(Please bring your insurance card to the program)Insurance Co:Policy #:Name of Insured:\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n PrescriptionPlan #:Telephone #:Over the Counter Medications: I—or my child\, if under the age of 18—has permission to take over-the-counter medication\, for the dosage amount suggested by the pharmaceutical maker\, if feeling unwell due to symptoms such as headache or stomachache. Please check appropriate boxes and provide your signature below:I—or my child\, if under the age of 18—may take over-the-counter medication that I brought:*\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n I—or my child\, if under the age of 18—may take OTC medication provided by a staff person:*\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n I—or my child\, if under the age of 18—should not\, under any circumstances\, be given the following OTC medications:Please indicate:*\n \n \n I consent\n \n \n \n I do not consent\n CONSENT AGREEMENTAUTHORIZATION AND RELEASE\nThis Consent Agreement\, Authorization and Release must be read and signed to be eligible to attend Next Step's Young Adult Campference.\n\nRELEASE OF LIABILITY\nI understand that occasionally accidents occur during campference activities and that participants may sustain serious personal injury and property damages as a consequence thereof. Knowing the risks of campference activities\, nevertheless\, and in consideration of my acceptance for participation at a campference\, I hereby agree to assume those risks and to hold harmless Next Step\, and all campference agents\, representatives\, employees and volunteers\, from any and all liability\, claims for personal injury and/or property damage\, costs\, expenses and damages arising out of or connected in any way with my participation in campference activities. Further\, I acknowledge that Next Step accepts no responsibility for the loss\, damage or theft of my personal property.\n\nI acknowledge and understand there is an increased risk that Covid-19 and other communicable illnesses can be transmitted in any public place\, including an in person Next Step program. Next Step seeks to protect its staff and participants during any and all in person activities. By attending a Next Step in person program\, I agree to assume these risks.\n\nAdditionally\, as a precondition to participating in a Next Step program I understand to participate in person I must be up to date on my vaccinations against Measles\, Mumps\, Rubella\, Varicella\, and Pertussis (unless medically exempt with a doctor's note). I must also have my provider complete a medical application every 12 months to participate in person at a Next Step program.\nPlease indicate:*\n \n \n I consent\n \n \n \n I do not consent\n CONSENT FOR MEDICAL TREATMENTThe undersigned hereby grants permission to the medical staff or consulting physicians at Next Step to administer medication and provide medical care for me\, including any medical emergency care required. I also give my consent for any emergency transportation deemed necessary.Please indicate:*\n \n \n I consent\n \n \n \n I do not consent\n Community Agreement/Rules of ConductThe young adult campference is a close-knit community; therefore we ask that you agree to a few things that will promote being together in a safe manner. Please sign this Community Agreement\, which asks that you agree to conduct yourself ethically and respectfully while living in the program: \n\n\nDelegates are to demonstrate a high degree of maturity and self-respect\, taking into account the rights and feelings of others.\nDelegates are responsible for charges incurred\, e.g. vandalism and breakage of property\, etc.\nDelegates are to adhere to curfews\, directives and designated schedule times.\nSuitable attire is to be worn during the campference workshops and activities.\nSmoking is prohibited indoors.\n\nThe Following Behaviors are grounds for Immediate Dismissal: \n\nPhysical confrontations or assaults. This means harming\, attempting to harm\, or threatening to harm another person\, with or without a weapon or dangerous object\nBullying. As defined as unwanted\, aggressive behavior that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated\, or has the potential to be repeated\, over time. Verbal bullying is saying or writing mean things. Social bullying involves hurting someone’s reputation or relationships and can include leaving someone out on purpose\, telling other’s not to be friends with an individual\, spreading rumors\, embarrassing someone.\nStealing or damaging property\nPossession or use of drugs and alcohol\nSexual misconduct or sexual assault\nPlease indicate:*\n \n \n I agree to the community agreement\n \n \n \n I do not agree to the community agreement\n PHOTO AND INFORMATION RELEASEI give Next Step permission to photograph and use pictures or visual and/or audiotapes of me in professional or fundraising activities. On occasion\, with this permission\, participant photographs may be included on the Next Step website\, on a bulletin board\, video\, newsletter\, campference album\, or in personal photographs. Next Step respects the privacy of participants and does not allow unauthorized visitors to photograph the campference or participants. In addition\, by signing below\, I give Next Step permission to give my name\, address and/or phone number to groups or individuals wishing to support Next Step by inviting me to an event or by sending me information related to Next Step. This list will not be sold or given to anyone else for any other reason.Please check appropriate box and provide your signature below:*\n \n \n I agree to the photo release\n \n \n \n I do not agree to the photo release\n Please SignBy signing below\, I hereby acknowledge that I have read and fully understand the terms and expectations of the program. All information provided is current and accurate to the best of my knowledge. Name*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n Date*\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Please check this box to indicate that the above signature will serve as your electronic signature\n \n (Delegate or Legal Guardian if the Delegate is not over the age of 18)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://www.nextstepnet.org/event/fall-campference-2025/ CATEGORIES:Cancer,HIV,Program,Rare Genetic Disorder,Sickle Cell ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nextstepnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/76ead9bf-e8af-44fc-98b4-d97bfd80e40e.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251209 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260115 DTSTAMP:20260403T142249 CREATED:20251209T170048Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T170803Z UID:11515-1765238400-1768435199@www.nextstepnet.org SUMMARY:2025-2026 Next Step Annual Fund DESCRIPTION:Every great journey starts with a question: What is possible? For teens and young adults living with serious chronic illnesses\, that question can feel out of reach. Diagnoses like cancer\, sickle cell disease\, and HIV often overshadow their dreams and potential. \nEach year\, thousands of teens transition out of pediatric care\, losing support systems they relied on. For nearly 25 years\, Next Step has helped to empower these young people to break through these barriers-helping them discover their strength\, find a community\, and pursue meaningful goals. \nGive the gift of possibility \nJamall\, a young man with sickle cell disease\, was experiencing these same troubles. His diagnosis was clouding his vision of the future. He was looking for something\, and thankfully he found Next Step. As a result\, Jamall found a community\, an environment where he felt comfortable chasing his passions and seeing a future full of possibilities. \n“Before Next Step\, I never met anyone my age who lives with sickle cell. Meeting peers who get it—that was the moment I finally felt seen.” \nJAMALL\, NEXT STEP PARTICIPANT \nNow is the time to act.  Your support last year has made a real difference for young people living with serious illness. Join us again today in transforming “Why me?” into “What’s next?” for even more young people like Jamall. Please include Next Step in your end-of-year giving plan and become a catalyst for change. \nYour gift isn’t just a donation—it’s a lifeline.  Give today. Empower tomorrow.  \nBest wishes\, \nBill Kubicek\, Executive Director & Founder\, Next Step \nGive the gift of possibility \n\nYOUR IMPACT \n$100 – Provides food for an in-person group program \n$250 – Provides a studio recording session in Song Studio \n$500 – Enables 15 seriously ill young people to attend a life skills workshop \n$1\,000 – Provides a group songwriting session for eight participants \n$1\,500 – Provides a year of Next Step STRIVE and academic tutoring and mentoring for one participant \n$2\,500 – Enables a seriously ill young person to attend a 4-day Campference \n$5\,000 – Provides a full year of programming for one participant. URL:https://www.nextstepnet.org/event/2025-2026-next-step-annual-fund/ CATEGORIES:Fundraising ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nextstepnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Jamall-website-selfie.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260127T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260127T200000 DTSTAMP:20260403T142249 CREATED:20260102T135841Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260116T165451Z UID:11609-1769540400-1769544000@www.nextstepnet.org SUMMARY:When Lightning Strikes 2 Launch Party DESCRIPTION:Join Next Step on Tuesday\, January 27th from 7pm to 8pm EST for an exciting virtual gathering as we celebrate the release of our second comic book\, When Lightning Strikes 2\, created by and inspired by our incredible young people and artists. The story marks the return of Kara\, the main character who lives with sickle cell\, as she faces the next chapter of her journey—tackling new challenges\, responsibilities\, and possibilities ahead. \nThis event is your chance to go behind the scenes\, hear how the comic came to life\, and celebrate the creativity\, resilience\, and voices of the young people in our community. \nWhat We Will Talk About \n\nCelebrate that we’ve made this comic book!\nMedical transition: the importance & challenges\nWhy Next Step?\n\nWatch the Webinar \nQuestions? \nContact Kepler Jeudy\, Next Step Program Director\, if you have any questions about this virtual event or receiving a copy of When Lightning Strikes 2: kepler@nextstepnet.org URL:https://www.nextstepnet.org/event/whenlightningstrikes2launchparty/ CATEGORIES:Program,Sickle Cell ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.nextstepnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Screenshot-2026-01-02-at-8.57.06-AM.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260202 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260509 DTSTAMP:20260403T142249 CREATED:20251106T190539Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251112T134025Z UID:11429-1769990400-1778284799@www.nextstepnet.org SUMMARY:Next Step Mentoring Program (Spring 2026) DESCRIPTION:Do you have goals that you just can’t seem to make progress on? Maybe you feel like you know exactly what you need to do but you still can’t seem to do it? Or maybe you are already doing everything you can\, but it doesn’t feel like you’re making a dent? If you said yes to any of these questions\, our mentoring program might just be the extra boost you need. Our 2026 Spring Mentoring Program starts the week of February 2nd. This FREE program is for young people\, ages 16-29\, living with a chronic illness. \nMost of the time\, we already have the skills we need to move forward on our own but it can feel hard to get started. What we need is a little extra step to get moving. This is what our mentorship program can do for you. In our mentoring program you can identify and work on developing the skills you need to support yourself in your journey through adulthood so you can start your tomorrow\, today. \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n\n \nProgram Description: \n\n3 month-cycle\nYou meet with an assigned mentor 1-on-1 each week\, in-person or virtually\nMeetings are ~1 hour\nWork on your Action Plan (developed collaboratively by you and your mentor)\nParticipants are paid $20/session\, a total of $240 to help support their goal\n\nSounds good? Fill out the application below and Richard\, our Mentorship Coordinator will contact you to schedule an initial interview. You will be assigned a mentor and ready to begin at the start of the next cycle. \nQuestions? \nEmail Richard if you have any questions or need additional information about our 2025 Summer Mentoring Program: richard@nextstepnet.org \n\n \n \n Next Step Mentoring Program Application\n Please fill out the application below to join this program. \n \n Name*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n Nickname or Preferred NameHave you attended a Next Step program before?*\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n Attended Introductory Event Only (e.g. Next Step Mobile at hospital\, community center\, etc.)\n \n \n \n No\n How did you hear about the Next Step?*\n \n \n Next Step Outreach (Email or Event)\n \n \n \n Google/Internet Search\n \n \n \n Social Media (Instagram\, etc.)\n \n \n \n Family Member/Trusted Adult\n \n \n \n Another Participant\n \n \n \n Medical Staff\n \n \n \n Other\n \n \n \n \n If "other" or "medical staff\," please tell us how and include the name\, position and hospital of the medical staff who referred you:*Your Address* \n \n \n Street Address\n \n \n Address Line 2\n \n \n City\n \n \n State / Province / Region\n \n \n ZIP / Postal Code\n \n \n Country\n AfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBonaire\, Sint Eustatius and SabaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBouvet IslandBrazilBritish Indian Ocean TerritoryBrunei DarussalamBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCambodiaCameroonCanadaCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaChristmas IslandCocos IslandsColombiaComorosCongoCongo\, Democratic Republic of theCook IslandsCosta RicaCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzechiaCôte d'IvoireDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEswatiniEthiopiaFalkland IslandsFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench GuianaFrench PolynesiaFrench Southern TerritoriesGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGibraltarGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuadeloupeGuamGuatemalaGuernseyGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHeard Island and McDonald IslandsHoly SeeHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsle of ManIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJerseyJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiKorea\, Democratic People's Republic ofKorea\, Republic ofKuwaitKyrgyzstanLao People's Democratic RepublicLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacaoMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMartiniqueMauritaniaMauritiusMayotteMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMontserratMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew CaledoniaNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNiueNorfolk IslandNorth MacedoniaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine\, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPitcairnPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussian FederationRwandaRéunionSaint BarthélemySaint Helena\, Ascension and Tristan da CunhaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint MartinSaint Pierre and MiquelonSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth Georgia and the South Sandwich IslandsSouth SudanSpainSri LankaSudanSurinameSvalbard and Jan MayenSwedenSwitzerlandSyria Arab RepublicTaiwanTajikistanTanzania\, the United Republic ofThailandTimor-LesteTogoTokelauTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkmenistanTurks and Caicos IslandsTuvaluTürkiyeUS Minor Outlying IslandsUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuelaViet NamVirgin Islands\, BritishVirgin Islands\, U.S.Wallis and FutunaWestern SaharaYemenZambiaZimbabweÅland Islands \n \n \n Phone*Alternate PhoneEmail*\n \n Preferred mode of contact?*\n \n Email\n \n \n Cell Phone (Call)\n \n \n Cell Phone (Text)\n Current OccupationEmployer or SchoolAgeBirthday\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Race/EthnicityGenderPronouns (he/him\, she/her\, they/them)What is the highest level of education you have received so far?Hospital or Clinic where you receive medical care?What do you hope to get out of the Mentoring experience?PARENT/GUARDIAN OR EMERGENCY CONTACTName*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n RelationshipPhoneEmail\n \n Medical OverviewDiagnosis*Date of Diagnosis\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Are you on active treatment?\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n Food allergy & reactionsEnvironmental allergiesDo you carry an Epi-Pen?\n \n Yes\n \n \n No\n Are there any special accommodations you would need?Are there any activity limitations?Please list any medications you take\, and how often.Please take a moment to describe what symptoms you display if you've overextended yourself or are starting to get sick. How can we best support you in such a situation?CONSENT AGREEMENTAUTHORIZATION AND RELEASE\nThis Consent Agreement\, Authorization and Release must be read and signed to be eligible to attend Next Step's Young Adult Campference.\n\nRELEASE OF LIABILITY\nI understand that occasionally accidents occur during campference activities and that participants may sustain serious personal injury and property damages as a consequence thereof. Knowing the risks of campference activities\, nevertheless\, and in consideration of my acceptance for participation at a campference\, I hereby agree to assume those risks and to hold harmless Next Step\, and all campference agents\, representatives\, employees and volunteers\, from any and all liability\, claims for personal injury and/or property damage\, costs\, expenses and damages arising out of or connected in any way with my participation in campference activities. Further\, I acknowledge that Next Step accepts no responsibility for the loss\, damage or theft of my personal property.\nPlease indicate:*\n \n \n I consent\n \n \n \n I do not consent\n Community Agreement/Rules of ConductThank you for making a commitment to yourself. In signing this document\, you are agreeing to work on your goals. Though it may be difficult at times\, know that you will be supported. That said\, this program only works if you put in the work. Here are the guidelines and commitments that we are expecting of you:*\n \n Participants will agree to stay in the program for the full 3 months of the program\n \n \n Participants will meet with the Mentor Specialist weekly\, virtually or in-person\, to review your progress and request support.\n \n \n Participants agree to set a goal\n \n \n Participants agree to follow through on all tasks required to move them towards goal completion and come prepared to meetings to discuss them or request support.\n \n \n Participants agree to be timely to all meetings and interactions with the Mentor Specialist\n Please select as an indication that you will adhere to the code of conduct.Please indicate:*\n \n \n I agree to the community agreement\n \n \n \n I do not agree to the community agreement\n PHOTO AND INFORMATION RELEASEI give Next Step permission to photograph and use pictures or visual and/or audiotapes of me in professional or fundraising activities. On occasion\, with this permission\, participant photographs may be included on the Next Step website\, on a bulletin board\, video\, newsletter\, campference album\, or in personal photographs. Next Step respects the privacy of participants and does not allow unauthorized visitors to photograph the campference or participants. In addition\, by signing below\, I give Next Step permission to give my name\, address and/or phone number to groups or individuals wishing to support Next Step by inviting me to an event or by sending me information related to Next Step. This list will not be sold or given to anyone else for any other reason.Please check appropriate box and provide your signature below:*\n \n \n I agree to the photo release\n \n \n \n I do not agree to the photo release\n Data Sharing NoticeAs a part of participating in this program\, we will ask you to complete surveys about your experience. We will also collect data about you - such as how many sessions you completed\, your age\, gender\, etc.\, that will be used to evaluate and continue to improve the Mentoring program. As a part of our partnership with the Duke PiCASO program\, we will share those data with their team for the purpose of program improvement. Any personal information that could identify you will be removed or changed before files are shared with the Duke PiCASO team to protect your privacy and anonymity. Please SignBy signing below\, I hereby acknowledge that I have read and fully understand the terms and expectations of the program. All information provided is current and accurate to the best of my knowledge. Name*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n Date*\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Please check this box to indicate that the above signature will serve as your electronic signature\n \n (Delegate or Legal Guardian if the Delegate is not over the age of 18)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://www.nextstepnet.org/event/next-step-mentoring-program-spring-2026/ CATEGORIES:Cancer,HIV,Program,Rare Genetic Disorder,Sickle Cell ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nextstepnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Next-Step-Kyle-Klein-250-KKR55369-copy.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260209 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260421 DTSTAMP:20260403T142249 CREATED:20251106T185343Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251119T145011Z UID:11425-1770595200-1776729599@www.nextstepnet.org SUMMARY:Next Step Songbook (Spring 2026) DESCRIPTION:Do you experience complicated feelings around life\, your medical journey\, connections with others? Are you struggling with your confidence and using your voice with your doctors\, at school\, work or in your social life? \nNext Step Songbook is about finding your voice and your story through songwriting. Kimberly\, Next Step Song Studio Director\, will help you tell the story you want to tell. Songbook is a safe space to be you – to live your life in the midst of challenge or joy. You can express yourself through writing song lyrics\, reflect on your life\, practice using your voice and tell the story you want to tell about yourself. \nProgram Description: \n\nFREE virtual program\nFind your voice\, develop your self confidence and learn other life skills\nFor young people\, ages 16-29\, living with a serious illness\n3-4 week session starting in February 2026\n\n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n\n \n2026 Spring Dates \nCycle 1: February to March (Start on 2/9 and end on 3/9) \nCycle 2: Mid-March to Mid-April (Start on 3/23 and end on 4/20) \nQuestions? \nEmail Casey Casey\, Next Step Partnership Coordinator\, if you have questions about Next Step Songbook: casey@nextstepnet.org \n\n \n \n Next Step Songbook Application\n Please fill out the form below if you are interested in joining this online program. \n \n Name*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n NicknameHave you been to a Next Step Program before?\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n Attended Introductory Event Only (e.g. Next Step Mobile at hospital\, community center\, etc.)\n \n \n \n No\n How did you hear about Next Step?\n \n \n Next Step Outreach (Email or Event)\n \n \n \n Google/Internet Search\n \n \n \n Social Media (Instagram\, etc.)\n \n \n \n Family Member/Trusted Adult\n \n \n \n Another Participant\n \n \n \n Medical Staff\n \n \n \n \n Address* \n \n \n Street Address\n \n \n Address Line 2\n \n \n City\n \n \n State / Province / Region\n \n \n ZIP / Postal Code\n \n \n Country\n AfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBonaire\, Sint Eustatius and SabaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBouvet IslandBrazilBritish Indian Ocean TerritoryBrunei DarussalamBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCambodiaCameroonCanadaCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaChristmas IslandCocos IslandsColombiaComorosCongoCongo\, Democratic Republic of theCook IslandsCosta RicaCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzechiaCôte d'IvoireDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEswatiniEthiopiaFalkland IslandsFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench GuianaFrench PolynesiaFrench Southern TerritoriesGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGibraltarGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuadeloupeGuamGuatemalaGuernseyGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHeard Island and McDonald IslandsHoly SeeHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsle of ManIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJerseyJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiKorea\, Democratic People's Republic ofKorea\, Republic ofKuwaitKyrgyzstanLao People's Democratic RepublicLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacaoMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMartiniqueMauritaniaMauritiusMayotteMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMontserratMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew CaledoniaNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNiueNorfolk IslandNorth MacedoniaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine\, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPitcairnPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussian FederationRwandaRéunionSaint BarthélemySaint Helena\, Ascension and Tristan da CunhaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint MartinSaint Pierre and MiquelonSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth Georgia and the South Sandwich IslandsSouth SudanSpainSri LankaSudanSurinameSvalbard and Jan MayenSwedenSwitzerlandSyria Arab RepublicTaiwanTajikistanTanzania\, the United Republic ofThailandTimor-LesteTogoTokelauTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkmenistanTurks and Caicos IslandsTuvaluTürkiyeUS Minor Outlying IslandsUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuelaViet NamVirgin Islands\, BritishVirgin Islands\, U.S.Wallis and FutunaWestern SaharaYemenZambiaZimbabweÅland Islands \n \n \n Phone*Alternate PhoneEmail*\n \n Preferred mode of contact?*\n \n Email\n \n \n Cell Phone (Call)\n \n \n Cell Phone (Text)\n Current OccupationEmployer or SchoolAgeBirthday\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Race/EthnicityGenderPronouns (he/him\, she/her\, they/them)What is the highest level of education you have received so far?Hospital or Clinic where you receive medical care?PARENT/GUARDIAN AND EMERGENCY CONTACTName*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n RelationshipPhoneEmail\n \n Medical OverviewDiagnosis*Food Allergies & ReactionsEnvironmental Allergies (bee\, latex\, etc) & ReactionsDo you carry an Epi-Pen?\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n Are there are any special accommodations you would need (dietary\, mobility\, equipment\, etc.)? Please explain:Are there any activity limitations?Community Agreement/Rules of Conduct*Let’s make a plan for when life or illness or school or work or family\, happens.* Thank you for making a commitment to yourself. In signing this document\, you are agreeing to work on your songwriting in collaboration with a Next Step Therapeutic Songwriter. This is such an empowering moment you are choosing to grow into\, and we want to encourage you to take care of your experience. Songbook only works if you put in the creative and expressive work. As you step into your stretch zone with songwriting and finding your voice\, at times there may be creative challenges. Just know that throughout the Songbook process\, you will be supported. Here are the guidelines and commitments that we are expecting from you:*\n \n 1. Participants commit to staying in Songbook for the full 5-weeks\n \n \n 2. Participants agree to communicate honestly and openly with their Therapeutic Songwriter - specifically\, during studios when collaborating on their song\, when they need to cancel or reschedule their studio for that week\, and if they have a medical\, family\, work or school event that conflicts with their Songbook studio or commitment\n \n \n 3. Participants agree to work on finding\, and listening to\, their voice\, and building up their self-confidence through their songwriting experience\n \n \n 4. Participants will meet with their Therapeutic Songwriter on a weekly basis\, virtually through zoom\, to advance their original song towards production and completion\n \n \n 5. Participants agree to come prepared to meetings to work on writing and developing their song – and all song parts – lyrics\, rhythm\, harmony\, melody and style\n \n \n 6. Participants agree to follow through on all songwriting and song-creating tasks needed to move towards song completion\n \n \n 7. Participants agree to be timely to all meetings and interactions with their Therapeutic Songwriter\n Please select as an indication that you will adhere to the code of conduct.The Following Behaviors are grounds for Immediate Dismissal:*\n \n 1. Physical confrontations or assaults. This means harming\, attempting to harm\, or threatening to harm another person\, with or without a weapon or dangerous object\n \n \n 2. Bullying. As defined as unwanted\, aggressive behavior that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated\, or has the potential to be repeated\, over time. Verbal bullying is saying or writing mean things. Social bullying involves hurting someone’s reputation or relationships and can include leaving someone out on purpose\, telling other’s not to be friends with an individual\, spreading rumors\, embarrassing someone.\n \n \n 3. Stealing or damaging property\n \n \n 4. Possession or use of drugs and alcohol\n \n \n 5. Sexual misconduct or sexual assault\n \n \n 6. Leaving without permission\n \n \n 7. The possession of any type of weapon\n Please select as an indication that you understand the behaviors that are unacceptable at the program. Please indicate:*\n \n \n I agree to the community agreement\n \n \n \n I do not agree to the community agreement\n PHOTO AND INFORMATION RELEASEI give Next Step permission to photograph and use pictures or visual and/or audiotapes of me in professional or fundraising activities. On occasion\, with this permission\, participant photographs may be included on the Next Step website\, on a bulletin board\, video\, newsletter\, campference album\, or in personal photographs. Next Step respects the privacy of participants and does not allow unauthorized visitors to photograph the campference or participants. In addition\, by signing below\, I give Next Step permission to give my name\, address and/or phone number to groups or individuals wishing to support Next Step by inviting me to an event or by sending me information related to Next Step. This list will not be sold or given to anyone else for any other reason.Please check appropriate box and provide your signature below:*\n \n \n I agree to the photo release\n \n \n \n I do not agree to the photo release\n Please SignBy signing below\, I hereby acknowledge that I have read and fully understand the terms and expectations of the program. All information provided is current and accurate to the best of my knowledge. Name*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n Date*\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Please check this box to indicate that the above signature will serve as your electronic signature\n \n (Delegate or Legal Guardian if the Delegate is not over the age of 18)\n UntitledFirst ChoiceSecond ChoiceThird Choice\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://www.nextstepnet.org/event/next-step-songbook-spring-2026/ CATEGORIES:Cancer,HIV,Program,Rare Genetic Disorder,Sickle Cell ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nextstepnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Next-Step-Kyle-Klein-111-KKR55219.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260312T163000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260312T190000 DTSTAMP:20260403T142249 CREATED:20260115T221953Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260305T203340Z UID:11647-1773333000-1773342000@www.nextstepnet.org SUMMARY:Next Step Comic Book Celebration & Art Exhibition DESCRIPTION:Join Next Step on Thursday\, March 12\, 2026\, from 4:30pm to 7pm EST at LabCentral in Cambridge\, MA for an unforgettable evening celebrating the first public exhibition of our two comic books\, When Lightning Strikes\, featuring the journey of Kara\, a young superhero living with sickle cell disease. This event is free to join. \nRegister Here \nExperience a vibrant gallery exhibition\, an inspiring panel discussion\, and connect with the creative minds behind the project. Enjoy delicious snacks and drinks while learning how teens living with sickle cell disease harnessed creativity and community to navigate the transition from pediatric care to adult care. Plus\, don’t miss the chance to meet former Patriots Super Bowl champion Devin McCourty\, who will be joining us at the event! \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n\n \n  \nWe are so fortunate to be joined by guest panelist\, Dr. Sharl Azar\, a nationally recognized hematologist and advocate serving as Medical Director of the Comprehensive Sickle Cell Disease Treatment Center and the Robert K. Kraft Chair of Diversity\, Equity\, and Inclusion at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School. \nRegister Here \nQUESTIONS? \nEmail Alice Sich\, Next Step Events and Operations Coordinator\, if you have any questions about this event at alice@nextstepnet.org. \n  \nLOCATION & PARKING \nLabCentral \n700 Main Street \nCambridge\, MA 02139 \nRecommended parking options for this event are\, Osborne Triangle\, which is adjacent to LabCentral\, Tech Square Garage\, and then metered parking on the street. \nRead our comic books URL:https://www.nextstepnet.org/event/next-step-comic-book-celebration-art-exhibition/ LOCATION:LabCentral\, 700 Main Street\, Cambridge\, 02139\, United States CATEGORIES:Fundraising ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.nextstepnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Hero-Image-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260410 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260413 DTSTAMP:20260403T142249 CREATED:20251106T194125Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251111T163634Z UID:11434-1775779200-1776038399@www.nextstepnet.org SUMMARY:Spring Campference 2026 DESCRIPTION:We are hosting our 2026 Spring Campference for young adults\, ages 18-29\, living with a chronic illness from Friday\, April 10th to Sunday\, April 12th at the Hampton Inn & Suites in Watertown\, MA. Part camp\, part conference\, our 3-day Spring Campference fosters friendships and community with peers who “get it.” At a Next Step Spring Campference\, you can: \n\nEngage in educational workshops\nRecharge with new friends\nJoin the music and art mayhem\nCreate fun\, life-changing moments\nEmpower yourself with information and resources\n\n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n\n \n  \nSounds good?! Spots for our popular Spring Campference fill up fast so we encourage you to submit your application below as soon as possible to secure your spot! \nIn Their Words \nOur participants say it best. Read stories from young people who have attended a Next Step Campference. \nDo you have questions before signing up? \nEmail Casey Casey\, Next Step Nursing Director and Partnership Coordinator\, at casey@nextstepnet.org or Kepler Jeudy\, Next Step Program Director\, at kepler@nextstepnet.org if you have any questions about our 2026 Spring Campference for young adults living with a chronic illness. \n\n \n \n 2026 Spring Campference\n Please fill out this application if you are interested in joining our 2026 Spring Campference. \n \n Have you been on a Next Step Campference before?*\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n Attended Introductory Event Only (e.g. Next Step Mobile at hospital\, community center\, etc.)\n \n \n \n No\n How did you hear about the Next Step campference?*\n \n \n Next Step Outreach (Email or Event)\n \n \n \n Google/Internet Search\n \n \n \n Social Media (Instagram\, etc.)\n \n \n \n Family Member/Trusted Adult\n \n \n \n Another Participant\n \n \n \n Medical Staff\n \n \n \n Other\n \n \n \n \n If medical staff\, please include name\, position and hospital:*Name*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n NicknameAddress* \n \n \n Street Address\n \n \n Address Line 2\n \n \n City\n \n \n State\n AlabamaAlaskaAmerican SamoaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaGuamHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaNorthern Mariana IslandsOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahU.S. Virgin IslandsVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces Pacific\n \n ZIP Code\n \n \n \n Phone*Alternate PhoneEmail*\n \n Preferred mode of contact?*\n \n Email\n \n \n Cell Phone (Call)\n \n \n Cell Phone (Text)\n Current OccupationEmployer or SchoolAgeBirthday\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Race/EthnicityGenderPronouns (he/him\, she/her\, they/them)What is the highest level of education you have received so far?T-shirt sizeHospital or Clinic where you receive medical care?What do you hope to get out of the Next Step campference experience?What topic(s) do you most want to learn about at Campference?PARENT/GUARDIAN AND EMERGENCY CONTACTName*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n RelationshipPhoneEmail\n \n Medical OverviewDiagnosisDate of Diagnosis\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Are you on active Treatment?\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n Food Allergies & ReactionsEnvironmental Allergies (bee\, latex\, etc) & ReactionsDo you carry an Epi-Pen?\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n Are there are any special accommodations you would need (dietary\, mobility\, equipment\, etc.)? Please explain:Are there any activity limitations?Please list any medications you take\, and how often.Please take a moment to describe what symptoms you display if you’ve overextended yourself or are starting to get sick. How can we best support you in such a situation?INSURANCE INFORMATION(Please bring your insurance card to the program)Insurance Co:Policy #:Name of Insured:\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n PrescriptionPlan #:Telephone #:Over the Counter Medications: I—or my child\, if under the age of 18—has permission to take over-the-counter medication\, for the dosage amount suggested by the pharmaceutical maker\, if feeling unwell due to symptoms such as headache or stomachache. Please check appropriate boxes and provide your signature below:I—or my child\, if under the age of 18—may take over-the-counter medication that I brought:*\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n I—or my child\, if under the age of 18—may take OTC medication provided by a staff person:*\n \n \n Yes\n \n \n \n No\n I—or my child\, if under the age of 18—should not\, under any circumstances\, be given the following OTC medications:Please indicate:*\n \n \n I consent\n \n \n \n I do not consent\n CONSENT AGREEMENTAUTHORIZATION AND RELEASE\nThis Consent Agreement\, Authorization and Release must be read and signed to be eligible to attend Next Step's Young Adult Campference.\n\nRELEASE OF LIABILITY\nI understand that occasionally accidents occur during campference activities and that participants may sustain serious personal injury and property damages as a consequence thereof. Knowing the risks of campference activities\, nevertheless\, and in consideration of my acceptance for participation at a campference\, I hereby agree to assume those risks and to hold harmless Next Step\, and all campference agents\, representatives\, employees and volunteers\, from any and all liability\, claims for personal injury and/or property damage\, costs\, expenses and damages arising out of or connected in any way with my participation in campference activities. Further\, I acknowledge that Next Step accepts no responsibility for the loss\, damage or theft of my personal property.\n\nI acknowledge and understand there is an increased risk that Covid-19 and other communicable illnesses can be transmitted in any public place\, including an in person Next Step program. Next Step seeks to protect its staff and participants during any and all in person activities. By attending a Next Step in person program\, I agree to assume these risks.\n\nAdditionally\, as a precondition to participating in a Next Step program I understand to participate in person I must be up to date on my vaccinations against Measles\, Mumps\, Rubella\, Varicella\, and Pertussis (unless medically exempt with a doctor's note). I must also have my provider complete a medical application every 12 months to participate in person at a Next Step program.\nPlease indicate:*\n \n \n I consent\n \n \n \n I do not consent\n CONSENT FOR MEDICAL TREATMENTThe undersigned hereby grants permission to the medical staff or consulting physicians at Next Step to administer medication and provide medical care for me\, including any medical emergency care required. I also give my consent for any emergency transportation deemed necessary.Please indicate:*\n \n \n I consent\n \n \n \n I do not consent\n Community Agreement/Rules of ConductThe young adult campference is a close-knit community; therefore we ask that you agree to a few things that will promote being together in a safe manner. Please sign this Community Agreement\, which asks that you agree to conduct yourself ethically and respectfully while living in the program: \n\n\nDelegates are to demonstrate a high degree of maturity and self-respect\, taking into account the rights and feelings of others.\nDelegates are responsible for charges incurred\, e.g. vandalism and breakage of property\, etc.\nDelegates are to adhere to curfews\, directives and designated schedule times.\nSuitable attire is to be worn during the campference workshops and activities.\nSmoking is prohibited indoors.\n\nThe Following Behaviors are grounds for Immediate Dismissal: \n\nPhysical confrontations or assaults. This means harming\, attempting to harm\, or threatening to harm another person\, with or without a weapon or dangerous object\nBullying. As defined as unwanted\, aggressive behavior that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated\, or has the potential to be repeated\, over time. Verbal bullying is saying or writing mean things. Social bullying involves hurting someone’s reputation or relationships and can include leaving someone out on purpose\, telling other’s not to be friends with an individual\, spreading rumors\, embarrassing someone.\nStealing or damaging property\nPossession or use of drugs and alcohol\nSexual misconduct or sexual assault\nPlease indicate:*\n \n \n I agree to the community agreement\n \n \n \n I do not agree to the community agreement\n PHOTO AND INFORMATION RELEASEI give Next Step permission to photograph and use pictures or visual and/or audiotapes of me in professional or fundraising activities. On occasion\, with this permission\, participant photographs may be included on the Next Step website\, on a bulletin board\, video\, newsletter\, campference album\, or in personal photographs. Next Step respects the privacy of participants and does not allow unauthorized visitors to photograph the campference or participants. In addition\, by signing below\, I give Next Step permission to give my name\, address and/or phone number to groups or individuals wishing to support Next Step by inviting me to an event or by sending me information related to Next Step. This list will not be sold or given to anyone else for any other reason.Please check appropriate box and provide your signature below:*\n \n \n I agree to the photo release\n \n \n \n I do not agree to the photo release\n Please SignBy signing below\, I hereby acknowledge that I have read and fully understand the terms and expectations of the program. All information provided is current and accurate to the best of my knowledge. Name*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n Date*\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Please check this box to indicate that the above signature will serve as your electronic signature\n \n (Delegate or Legal Guardian if the Delegate is not over the age of 18)\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://www.nextstepnet.org/event/spring-campference-2026/ CATEGORIES:Cancer,HIV,Program,Rare Genetic Disorder,Sickle Cell ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nextstepnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/76ead9bf-e8af-44fc-98b4-d97bfd80e40e.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260420 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260421 DTSTAMP:20260403T142249 CREATED:20250924T174306Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260402T182136Z UID:11392-1776643200-1776729599@www.nextstepnet.org SUMMARY:Support our Boston Marathon team! DESCRIPTION:Team Next Step is back to run the historic Boston Marathon! This year we have five amazing athletes running the 130th Boston Marathon on Sunday\, August 20th. Their support will help us welcome even more seriously ill young people into the Next Step community where they will make new friends\, set goals with mentors\, and create a sense of self beyond their diagnosis. Please join the team and donate any amount to one of our runners or to the entire team in the link below. \nDonate Now \nThank you Adam Farkes\, Daniel J Kim\, Michael Loban\, Lexi Minicucci and Cameron Ritz for volunteering your time and for all of your hard work in supporting our mission. You truly are changing lives. A special thank you to the Bank of America Marathon Official Charity Program for welcoming us back for another year. We are so grateful for your partnership in this important work. \nQUESTIONS? \nContact Lindsey Dacey\, Next Step Development Director\, if you have any questions about supporting Team Next Step: lindsey@nextstepnet.org URL:https://www.nextstepnet.org/event/supportourbostonmarathonteam/ CATEGORIES:Fundraising ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.nextstepnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Lexi2-copy.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260816 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260817 DTSTAMP:20260403T142249 CREATED:20260204T162908Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T154713Z UID:11701-1786838400-1786924799@www.nextstepnet.org SUMMARY:Run the 2026 Falmouth Road Race DESCRIPTION:Run the 54th Falmouth Road Race for Next Step on Sunday\, August 16\, 2026! This year we were awarded 15 bibs through the Numbers for Nonprofits program. The fundraising minimum to join Team Next Step is $1\,300. Before race day\, we’ll offer ways to stay connected as a close\, supportive Team Next Step community and after the race\, you can join us at our celebratory BBQ near the finish line for runners and their friends and families. This is your chance to secure one of the most sought-after bibs in the country and run a beautiful oceanside course for a life-changing cause. \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n\n \nYOUR IMPACT \nThis historic 7-mile race is more than just a run for Next Step—it’s a chance to make a life-changing impact. By joining our team\, you’ll help teens and young adults living with serious illnesses connect with their community\, gain the self-advocacy skills needed to navigate complex adult healthcare\, and build the confidence to see a future where their illness does not define them or limit their goals. Our young people can attend Next Step programs at no cost to them or their family because of amazing volunteers like you. You truly are changing lives by running with Team Next Step. \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n\n \nQUESTIONS? \nContact us if you have any questions about joining Team Next Step\, Lindsey Dacey\, Next Step Development Director: lindsey@nextstepnet.org \nClick here to read stories from Team Next Step \nClick here to watch young people talk about their Next Step Experience \n  \n\n \n \n 2026 Falmouth Road Race application\n Fill out the form below if you are ready to commit to running the 54th annual ASICS Falmouth Road Race for Next Step. \n \n Name(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n Phone(Required)Email(Required)\n \n Address(Required) \n \n \n \n Street Address\n \n \n Address Line 2\n \n \n City\n \n \n State / Province / Region\n \n AfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAnguillaAntarcticaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaArubaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBonaire\, Sint Eustatius and SabaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBouvet IslandBrazilBritish Indian Ocean TerritoryBrunei DarussalamBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCambodiaCameroonCanadaCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaChristmas IslandCocos IslandsColombiaComorosCongoCongo\, Democratic Republic of theCook IslandsCosta RicaCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzechiaCôte d'IvoireDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEswatiniEthiopiaFalkland IslandsFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench GuianaFrench PolynesiaFrench Southern TerritoriesGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGibraltarGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuadeloupeGuamGuatemalaGuernseyGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHeard Island and McDonald IslandsHoly SeeHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsle of ManIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJerseyJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiKorea\, Democratic People's Republic ofKorea\, Republic ofKuwaitKyrgyzstanLao People's Democratic RepublicLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacaoMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMartiniqueMauritaniaMauritiusMayotteMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMontserratMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew CaledoniaNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNiueNorfolk IslandNorth MacedoniaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine\, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPitcairnPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussian FederationRwandaRéunionSaint BarthélemySaint Helena\, Ascension and Tristan da CunhaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint MartinSaint Pierre and MiquelonSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSouth Georgia and the South Sandwich IslandsSouth SudanSpainSri LankaSudanSurinameSvalbard and Jan MayenSwedenSwitzerlandSyria Arab RepublicTaiwanTajikistanTanzania\, the United Republic ofThailandTimor-LesteTogoTokelauTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkmenistanTurks and Caicos IslandsTuvaluTürkiyeUS Minor Outlying IslandsUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVenezuelaViet NamVirgin Islands\, BritishVirgin Islands\, U.S.Wallis and FutunaWestern SaharaYemenZambiaZimbabweÅland Islands\n Country\n \n \n Date of Birth(Required)\n \n MM slash DD slash YYYY\n \n Singlet(Required)\n \n Women's Singlet\n \n \n Men's Singlet\n Size of shirt or singlet(Required)\n \n S\n \n \n M\n \n \n L\n \n \n XL\n \n \n XXL\n Runner Release Waiver and Fundraising Agreement(Required)\n \n I will follow the rules and regulations of the road race event.\n \n \n I will release the road race event organizers for any responsibility in case of an accident\, illness or injury.\n \n \n I acknowledge that this road race requires physical activity and there are possible risk and danger.\n \n \n I allow my photo to be taken during the event and used for event advertising and marketing.\n \n \n I agree to raise a minimum of $1300 for Next Step and to submit the guaranteed minimum to the Next Step office by September 17\, 2026\n \n \n I confirm that all information in this registration form is accurate and true.\n Select AllRunner signature(Required)\n \n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Δ URL:https://www.nextstepnet.org/event/run-the-2026-falmouth-road-race/ CATEGORIES:Fundraising ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.nextstepnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/group.png END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR