We take giant steps for people and organizations.

Does your next step include Adventure? Change is inevitable; our team helps you transform and make your journey great!

Through fun, creativity and a mindful approach, we strive to make the world a better place. Our mission is to help people and organizations connect more deeply with themselves, their dreams and nature.

Meet the fun people at Next Step.

Martha
McCormick

FOUNDER & CONVENER

…collaboration, challenge and creativity are key parts of Martha’s journey, and every next step is an adventure. Join her and the Next Step team to provide a framework for making the world a better place. READ BIO ❯

Shelly
Johnson

OUTREACH & ENERGY GENERATOR

…has been described as Tinkerbell on crack. Like that little sprite she is strong and responsible, and will go to any length. Shelly motivates students of all ages with her energetic approach to solving problems and taking the next step forward. READ BIO ❯

Sara
Lockie

EDUCATOR & INFO MANAGER

… is all about learning. Her passion for education includes people of all ages and abilities, and she is innovative in her approach to involving learners in their progress. Sara has faced life’s toughest challenges and emerged with strength and a positive attitude. She brings a strong background in science and teaching to the Next Step team. READ BIO ❯

Kyla
Cox

ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEM SOLVER

…expresses her creativity most dynamically through her connection with Mother Earth. She is a well-known figure in Des Moines’ sustainability movement. Whether you’re talking about urban gardening, permaculture or conservation Kyla’s name is sure to come up. READ BIO ❯

Some of our clients, and the projects that are taking them to the next step

Iowa High School Athletic Association

Team building, goal setting, and communication skills are just three things Next Step brings to the educational and student services offered by IHSAA.

Iowa Department of Education

From safe schools to service learning and team building, Next Step has served as a resource for the DOE since 2008.

West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce

Through the Leadership Academy, Next Step helps the Chamber give decision makers and service providers a chance to walk a mile in the shoes of those living in poverty.

Explore products & services by Next Step ❯

Jerah Sheets, Iowa Department of Natural Resources

Thanks for a great conversation. You started the meeting with an observation of my noticeable happiness I receive from my passion for my work. Last evening as I sat on my deck watching the sunset and reflecting from the day, your statement was at the top of my list for appreciating the day. A few tears of being overwhelmed with joy may have also transpired.

Jerah Sheets, Iowa DNR

Mary Beth Einhorn, Central Iowa Yoga Retreat Participant

Thank you thank you! I'm just beginning to find my tribe here and this was a boon.

Mary Beth Einhorn, Central Iowa Yoga Retreat Participant

Lisa Evans, Central Iowa Yoga Retreat Participant

The Mindful Movement and Mingling was just so inspired! I've never been to a retreat that did that type of program. The usual sitting around, alone, and slowly meeting one or two people can be pretty isolating. You guys brought us to that place of connectedness in a fun way.

Lisa Evans, Central Iowa Yoga Retreat participant

Kenny Baker, Gilbert High School

Thank you again for coming on Friday. It was an incredible hands-on learning experience for the students. Once the simulation was finished students reflected on their experience and newly gained insights into life near the poverty line.

Kenny Baker, 11th grade - Gilbert High School

Carrie Scheidel, Iowa Department of Education

Next Step was an excellent addition to our Super Power Summit for middle school students. They incorporated hands-on learning activities that involved dirt, art, leadership, and the great outdoors!

Carrie Scheidel, Iowa Department of Education

Therese, Yoga student

Thank you so very much for your love, care, and support on this journey. You truly are a great teacher and healer.

Therese, Yoga student

Joy Linquist, Principal

The STEM Camp at Harding this summer was awesome! Our students were actively engaged in activities, learning, and lots of fun! It was a great experience for students to connect with their school, community, and science!

Joy Linquist, Principal

Next Step has been a solid addition to our student leadership workshops. Their connection with students is thoughtful, purposeful and brings great energy.

Chad Elsberry IHSAA Assistant Director

Poverty simulation was fantastic. Great job forcing us to deal with the everyday complications of living in poverty. It was impossible not to get frustrated. Participants came up with “creative” ways to solve problems or cut corners for a lasting impact on their family, job, or both. I was extremely impressed with the entire process.

Wil Wiemann, 8th Grade Social Studies, Edward Stone Middle School, Burlington, Iowa

Teaching Outdoors

I heard great things about the training and would like to find a time this fall for an early out training for our staff to visit the park as well as hear about the wonderful things offered.

Brian Crook, Principal, Studebaker Elementary School, Des Moines, Iowa

Mindfulness & Movement

It only takes a minute or two and can totally change the classroom atmosphere. One minute they can be going a million miles a minute coming in from lunch and recess, and after a quick breathing technique, they settle down, giggle a little, and then get to work.

Mychele, Kindergarten Teacher