Learning a trade, returning to college or earning an advanced degree can begin a new chapter in recovery. The Next Step helps make these opportunities possible – a mission SolutionPoint Behavioral Health is proud to support.
On Saturday, October 10, 2026, four SolutionPoint team members joined more than 500 attendees at The Next Step’s annual Scholarship Gala at the Sheraton Westport Chalet Hotel in St. Louis. Scholarship recipients, families and supporters gathered to celebrate achievements and fund educational opportunities for people in recovery.
Donors gave generously. According to figures shared by SolutionPoint CEO Mike Neatherton, contributions totaled $569,000 in the room. Including raffle sales and sponsorships, the total exceeded $900,000 – enough to fund an expected minimum of 200 scholarships.
Founded in 2005, The Next Step is a nonprofit that helps people active in a 12-step recovery program who demonstrate financial need pursue academic or vocational education. Scholarships cover tuition and books, with payments made directly to educational institutions. Eligible programs range from technical training and certifications to undergraduate and doctoral degrees.
For SolutionPoint, the gala is a tradition built on personal connections, a substantial St. Louis alumni community, and longstanding professional relationships. The organization purchases several tables and invites alumni and their families to reconnect and celebrate life beyond treatment.
Neatherton said, “To see how well our alumni are doing is heartwarming for us.”
These connections made the evening especially meaningful for the team. Watching former clients laugh, spend time with their families, and move forward offered a personal reminder of why their work matters.
Scholarship recipients’ stories were another highlight. In short videos and personal accounts, they described how returning to school helped them pursue meaningful careers and open new possibilities for themselves and their loved ones. Their stories illustrate the human impact of the funds raised.
The enthusiasm continued during a lively paddle raise, as guests pledged donations at various giving levels. Mike called the experience moving and fun, crediting Executive Director Darcy Glidewell and the board for their commitment to the mission.
The mission extends beyond individual students. As Mike noted in the interview, a recipient’s progress can benefit their family and community. Supporting education invests in those broader possibilities.
SolutionPoint thanks The Next Step, its leadership, volunteers and donors for making this work possible, and the scholarship recipients for sharing their journeys.
The next annual event is scheduled for Saturday, October 9, 2027. Visit The Next Step’s website to learn more, explore scholarships or support its work.
