The Melnick Family
Meet Carter! He’s one of our incredible clients in our Extension Program who has a love for music, bowling, grocery shopping, and recently discovered an interest in arts and crafts! But behind his personality lies a story of resilience and the unwavering support of his family and Next Step Ministries.
We recently spoke with Dana Melnick, Carter’s mom, who shared their family’s journey navigating a challenging season of uncertainty—and how Next Step Ministries became a lifeline.
Can you tell us a little about your experience with Next Step Ministries and the impact it’s had on your family?
Dana: I can’t say enough good things about Next Step Ministries, and especially Roslynn. She has been a key encourager for us, especially through this last year.
Can you share your Next Step Ministries journey?
Dana: We first joined Next Step Ministries while Carter was still in school. We attended during the summer, and it was such a blessing to keep him in a routine. It was a great experience for him. But our real journey started last year when Carter began having these unexplained medical episodes.
Every doctor we saw had a different diagnosis, but no one had a solution. Most agreed it wasn’t behavioral, but we felt like we went to a million doctors trying to figure it out. These episodes were frightening. It was as if Carter wasn’t even there during them, and afterward, he’d be heartbroken. He didn’t want to hurt anyone or anything.
At first, the episodes were rare—"once every other blue moon," as we used to say—but they started increasing in frequency and intensity. He became more aggressive, and after he finished school, the episodes escalated even more.
How did Next Step Ministries help during that period?
Dana: Honestly, they stood in the fight with us. There was a point where we knew any other program would have asked us to leave because of the episodes. But Next Step Ministries didn’t give up on us.
We had an authentic conversation with the Program Director, and instead of shutting the door on Carter, she saw him for who he was before the episodes started. She fought for him—and for us—to find the answers we were so desperate for. That determination and commitment were a lifeline for our family.
Roslynn and the entire team supported us through every step. They provided a consistent routine for Carter and gave us breathing room as parents. When the stress felt crushing, Roslynn was always there to listen and encourage.
That’s such a testament to the heart of the program. Were you able to find answers for Carter’s episodes?
Dana: After countless doctor visits, it turned out that the medications he was on—the dosages, interactions, and sheer number of them—were causing the episodes. The doctors recommended hospitalizing him to detox, but no facility would take him. We had to manage it on our own, and it was one of the hardest things we’ve ever done.
But we couldn’t have done it without the support of Next Step Ministries. They provided stability when everything else felt chaotic.
How is Carter doing now?
Dana: He’s doing so much better. He still loves being at Next Step Ministries. His favorite activities are bowling, music, and grocery shopping. He’s also developing a growing interest in arts and crafts, which is exciting to see.
What is the need for programs like Next Step Ministries?
Dana: The need is enormous. Programs like Next Step Ministries provide essential care and support that you just can’t find everywhere. There are so many families like ours searching for quality programs, and unfortunately, there just aren’t enough.
There are long waiting lists because the demand far outweighs the available spots. We need more programs like Next Step Ministries! Places that truly care about their clients, offer enriching activities, and provide peace of mind for families. They make all the difference in the world.
What would you say to other parents who are just starting this journey and looking for a program for their loved ones?
Dana: First, trust your gut. Pay attention to how the staff engages with the clients and families. Look for empathy and care—it matters more than qualifications or experience. A degree is helpful, but if someone doesn’t have the heart for this work, it shows.
Also, cleanliness is so important. It’s a reflection of how the staff cares about the program and the people in it.
Most of all, find a place that gives you peace of mind. You need to know your loved one will be taken care of until you come back.
Is there anything else you’d like people to know from a parent’s perspective?
Dana: Just how much gratitude I have. There’s no way I can fully express it. Next Step Ministries is more than a program—it’s a lifeline for families like ours. We love them and are so thankful for everything they’ve done for Carter and for us.
It’s a blessing to have them in our corner. The peace of mind they’ve given us is truly priceless—knowing Carter is cared for and supported allows us to breathe again. There’s no way to put a value on that.