About

Committed Leaders and Community Collaborators

NextStep at Endeavor Academy has built a team of highly qualified and dedicated professionals to implement our unique data-driven approach to maximizing the full potential of our Transition Academy participants.

The Endeavor Forward, Inc. Board of Directors is steeped in local leadership, professional experience, and commitment to Marianna and Jackson County.

Team & Non-Profit Board

NextStep at Endeavor Academy Team

Tammy Dasher, BCBA, Program Director
Jordan Lewis, Transition Coach
Susie Barber, Instructor
Edwina Hall, Office Manager

Endeavor Forward, Inc. Board of Directors

Jim King, President
Jackie Kendall, Vice-President
Margaret Watkins, Secretary/Treasurer
Marvin Couch
Arlene Davis
Annie Dowd
Sam Everett
Steve File
Kristy Halley
Randy Smith

About Endeavor Park

As a community-integrated program, NextStep is located within the planned Endeavor Park community in Marianna, Florida. NextStep at Endeavor Academy prepares individuals with autism for transition beyond secondary school by providing instruction in employment and independent living skills.

Future phases include residential living opportunities and community-wide engagement.

Testimonials

"NextStep at Endeavor Academy has my strong support for the essential work they do for individuals with autism. My son is currently enrolled in their program, and the transformation we have witnessed in him is nothing short of life changing. Before NextStep, we worried about his future. Like many parents of children with autism, our greatest fear has been: What happens to our child if we are no longer here? NextStep has alleviated that fear. Through their structured curriculum, job coaching, and life skills training, our son has gained the confidence and ability to handle daily responsibilities on his own."

- Father of a current Transition Academy Participant

"As the parent of a young adult with disabilities, I have seen firsthand the incredible impact that NextStep has on its students and their families. The dedicated staff, well-designed curriculum, and forward-thinking approach to independent living make NextStep a model program that deserves recognition and support. From the moment we stepped onto the campus, we were impressed—not only by the facilities but by the kindness and dedication of the teachers and staff. The program’s comprehensive approach to teaching life skills has given my daughter knowledge and confidence that she carries with her in everyday life."

- Mother of a current Short Course participant

"The transformation I have witnessed in my son during the two-year program and since graduation has been truly remarkable. My family and I have been extremely impressed by the substantial progress and newfound confidence that NextStep has fostered in my son. Unlike other organizations, NextStep was instrumental in securing employment for my son and providing intensive job coaching, which they continue to provide even after graduation. Seeing my son gain confidence, feel valued, maintain a good job, communicate more effectively, socialize more, and smile more often has been beyond our expectations."

- Mother of a 2024 Transition Academy graduate

About

Committed Leaders and Community Collaborators

Team & Non-Profit Board

NextStep at Endeavor Academy Team

Endeavor Forward, Inc. Board of Directors

About Endeavor Park

Current Openings

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Testimonials