THE NEXT GROUND PROJECT
Unlock Your Power. Build the Future
The Next Ground Project, a free pre-apprenticeship program based in the Lower Eastern Shore of maryland.
We believe in second chances — and third ones too. You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to show up, be open to growth, and be ready to build something real.
Who This Program is For
Ideal for youth who are:
Ages 16–24
Lower Eastern Shore
Ready to show up + grow, even if you're not sure of the next step
No resume or transcript needed. Just a willingness to try.
What You’ll Get
All materials covered ($400 value)
Registration fee waived via sponsorship ($100 value)
Weekly meals + supportive learning space
Connections to career coaches, mentors, and certifications
What You’ll Learn (with Roots of Success)
Environmental Literacy & Green Jobs
Money & Budgeting Basics
Career Planning & Resume Building
Leadership, Advocacy, & Community Action
Time Committment: 10 Weeks
Program Contact Information:
Ella Samis
Program Instructor & Youth Advocate
Maryland Climate Corps Member 2025-2026
Grow With Us: Support The Next Ground Project
About The Next Ground Project
The Next Ground Project is Fenix Youth Project’s innovative environmental literacy and workforce development program. It empowers unaccompanied youth under 25 by providing hands-on training and certifications in the green industry while restoring local landscapes through eco-friendly lawn-to-meadow conversions.
Our Mission:
To equip unaccompanied youth with the knowledge and skills to restore the environment while securing meaningful employment and building a better future.
Thank you to our indivdual Program Supporters !
Katherine Harting
Carol A Dunahoo
Howell & Jolley Memorial Chapel
Andrew Bokeno
Debbie Sullivan Krauss Smith
Julie Parsons
Kathryn Culbertson
Lana Foley
Daniel Kent
thank you to our Program sponsors!
The Mathers Family Fund
Salisbury Elks Lodge #817