Job Readiness & Training – Next Step Program

The Next Step Program offers free certification training, externships, and employment opportunities for community members aged 17-24 with a high school diploma or GED. Primarily focused on healthcare, students can become nationally certified as Clinical Medical Assistants, Phlebotomy Technicians, Dental Assistants, Certified Nursing Assistants, Sterile Processing Technicians, and more.

Please note that these trainings can become unavailable, change, or become fully booked due to funding and high demand. Interested individuals should complete the interest form to get started.

Contact

Alyssa Aura, Intake & Enrollment Specialist | Email: auraa@congreso.net

Eligibility Requirements

• Residency: Must be a Philadelphia resident
• Age: Must be 17-24 years old
• Education: Must have a high school diploma or GED certificate
• Identification: Must have a valid and unexpired Pennsylvania state ID or driver’s license, Social Security card, and birth certificate (only original documents accepted)
• Immunizations & Clearances: These tests can be completed during enrollment

All students are subject to an evaluation, comprehensive testing, and professional development prior to official training.

Outcomes

The efficacy of the Next Step team’s training and supportive network is evident in the accomplishments of our students. Most recently, out of a class of 12, students in the Next Step Program Medical Assistance/Phlebotomy training showed a 92% pass rate on the Medical Assistant exam and an 83% pass rate on the Phlebotomy exam. In the following class group of seven, 100% of the students passed their Phlebotomy exam and 71% passed their Medical Assistance exam.