Leave the implementation to us.

 

When it comes to program development and project management, there's only so much you can do yourself. This company is founded on the belief that our skill set (logistics, implementation, process, measurement) will allow you to focus on what you do best, while we take care of the details. What are the next steps? Partner with us and we'll get moving.

 

                                    Lauren Edwards

                                                                         Principal, Owner, Achiever Extraordinaire

I have a Master's Degree in City and Regional Planning from The Ohio State University, and was honored to be in Columbus Business First’s 40 Under 40 class of 2020. I live in Grandview Heights Ohio with my amazing and supportive family. But what I really want you to know is that I am extremely passionate about helping people. Alleviating Poverty is my life’s work, and I get excited (really excited) when I'm moving that mission forward. It keeps me up at night. I also can't stop problem solving! Figuring out details and looking at every angle is a part of who I am. My goal with this firm is to assist partners with whatever pain points they may have so that they can achieve their vision of a better world. If you're breathing more easily then I've done my job. 

“She is consistently supportive and
motivating. Her mind is as quick and as sharp as anyone I have ever worked with, and her ability to juggle many balls simultaneously is consistently impressive.”
— Laura Helland; Wellness Matters Associate at Local Matters

Ryan Edwards

Thinker, Coordinator, Consultant

I have always had a passion for community development and the social service sector. My family, friends, and neighbors are what drive me to serve. As a husband (to Lauren) and a father to three young girls (Ivy, Katie, and Caroline) I am driven to help improve our communities however I can.

Professionally, I have been a Central Ohio leader in city planning, community development, and leadership programming for over 15 years (United Way of Central Ohio, Fifth by Northwest Area Commission, Licking County Planning Commission, Apex Leadership Company). Helping to create thriving communities that meet the needs of residents, while being welcoming, equitable, and inclusive have been the focus of my professional career.

I am excited to bring my extensive experience in community building to the Next Step Business Consulting team (and all of you)!!!


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Bailey McCoy

Project Consultant, Doer of the Things

I have a passion for social impact, and, in addition to Project Consulting, manage the Canal Market District in Newark, Ohio. After graduating from The Ohio State University, I served a year in the AmeriCorps, coordinating a national nutrition program. It was in this role that I met Lauren for the first time. In the years following, I've enjoyed focusing my work on developing an after-school youth program, leading a healthy food access task force, and organizing large community events. Through it all, raising our two lovely children and pursuing diverse experiences keep me motivated!