By Reggie Connell, Managing Editor
Apopka's only organization trying to combat homelessness locally made an all-or-nothing plea. The Next Step Foundation, a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting Apopka’s unhoused population, has announced a plan for the coming year: secure a location for a drop-in center and temporary lodging facility, or disband the organization entirely.
This announcement comes amid growing concerns about the City’s lack of a coordinated response to homelessness.
Related: Why doesn't Apopka have a plan to combat homelessness?.
Since its inception, Next Step Foundation has operated without soliciting public funds, relying instead on donations from board members, First Baptist Church of Apopka, the late Fred Brummer, and another philanthropic nonprofit. Despite producing a comprehensive operations manual with the assistance of Sharity, Inc., the foundation has struggled to find a permanent location for its services. But now it needs help from the community and the City.
Related: Apopka faces growing homelessness issues amid strict new Florida laws.
“Every potential property we have pursued in an effort to establish a Community Center was derailed for a number of uncontrollable reasons,” said David Schorejs of Next Step in an emailed statement. “It has been difficult to communicate the need and articulate a plan in such a manner that the community at large would embrace the effort.”
While the foundation has faced challenges, individual efforts within the community have continued to make a difference.
Related: On the frontlines of homelessness.
“The ministry to those in need has never stopped,” Schorejs said. “Individuals have found success because of the difference many of you have made in their lives.”
However, the lack of a coordinated community effort remains a significant hurdle.
The Next Step board currently comprises five members: Michelle Faircloth (President), Monique Morris (Secretary), Tracey Hough (Treasurer), Carlos Medley (Patmos Center), and Schorejs (First Baptist Church of Apopka).
However, Apopka Mayor Bryan Nelson is notably absent from the board. It was rumored that Nelson had departed in November, but he denied those claims at that time.
"Social media is not always correct," he said during the November 20th Apopka City Council meeting, addressing rumors that had been circulating about his resignation from the Next Step Foundation's Board of Directors.
Related: Nelson refutes rumors of resigning from Next Step Foundation Board.
The Apopka Voice contacted Schorejs to confirm Nelson's status on the board, but did not receive a response by the time of publication.
However, the challenges faced by the Next Step Foundation reflect a broader issue than just Nelson's absence from the board. Despite the visible presence of homelessness, the city lacks a comprehensive plan to address the crisis.
The Next Step Foundation has set a clear timeline: if a suitable location for a drop-in center and temporary lodging is not secured within the next year, the board will disband and not renew its nonprofit status. They plan to schedule a community meeting upon achieving a breakthrough or if there is significant community interest.
Related: What is the best way to end homelessness in Apopka? Put housing first and formulate a plan
The foundation has also shared the Apopka Community Resource Directory, which was last updated in 2021, and is seeking assistance. Organizations and ministries are encouraged to verify their listings and make corrections.
Community members are encouraged to contact the Next Step Foundation Board for more information or to offer suggestions. As Apopka grapples with homelessness, organizations like Next Step Foundation highlight the challenges and the potential for community-driven solutions.
To contact Next Step, email Schorejs at dndschorejs@gmail.com.
