By Paulette Dodson

Next Step Ministries was founded in 1998 after a Kernersville woman was murdered by her husband. In response to her death, community leaders came together to form an organization in the area to assist victims of domestic abuse.

Domestic violence affects our neighbors and friends, both women and men from all walks of life. According to statistics 1 in 3 women and 1 in 7 men will suffer from some type of abuse in their lifetime. Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury among women.

Next Step Ministries’ mission is to provide a temporary safe place for the victims of domestic violence and to help them acquire the tools they need to be survivors.

In addition to providing a safe haven, Next Step Ministries provides clients with food, clothing, transportation, counseling, support groups, assistance with protective orders, and assistance finding permanent housing. Clients are given the opportunity to participate in nutrition and wellness classes, job skills and budgeting classes, and children’s activities.

Next Step Ministries’ services are made possible by financial donations, material donations for the safe house, fundraisers, grants, and Thrift Store sales.

Next Step Ministries’ Thrift Store is located at 955 HWY 66 S in Kernersville. It is open Monday-Saturday 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. with the exception of Thursday when it is open until 6 p.m. The store receives donations Tuesday-Saturday 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Volunteers serve an important role in helping staff both at the Safe House and Thrift Store. For more information on volunteering with Next Step Ministries, about the services provided, or to make a donation, please contact Paulette Dodson, Executive Director, at (336) 413-7054. Next Step Ministries’ information can also be found on the website NextStepDV.org or on Facebook.

Next Step Ministries has had many success stories throughout the years. Recently, a client wrote, “At Next Step Ministries, I became a domestic violence victor rather than a domestic violence victim. I regained the confidence necessary to continue my goals and dreams. They shined light onto a very dark portion of my life. I realized that although I was shattered by the occurrences that forced me to leave my abuser/husband; I was not broken. I left behind things, but I still had my most valuable possession—my life. I am so grateful and thankful to the extraordinary staff and Next Step Ministries, Inc.”