Helping students plan and prepare 

for their next step

We get high schoolers ready for life after graduation — the life that’s best for them.

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Proudly serving high school students in north county san diego

A whopping 75% of high school grads say they don’t feel ready to make college and career choices.

Not on our watch.


While students learn a lot in school, “Adulthood 101” and “Informed Life Choices” simply aren’t part of the standard curriculum. Project Next is here to fill the gap. 


We offer students at San Marcos, Mission Hills, Twin Oaks, Escondido and Escondido Charter High Schools the resources and support they need to confidently identify and get ready for their next move—the one they’re excited to pursue.

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The clarity, confidence, and connections to build their best tomorrow 

We help students navigate it all through a wide range of programs and services.

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Strengths Finding

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Career Coaching

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Job Shadowing

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Networking Opportunities

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Financial Aid Help

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Interview Practice

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Job Search Support

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Professional Dress

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Personal Finance Skills

VIEW ALL PROGRAMS & SERVICES

Led by former San Diego school counselors 


Our team brings a rare understanding of the needs of both students *and* schools.

Project Next Executive Director Lisa Stout and her team share a combined 30 years of experience as high school counselors. They’re well equipped to bridge the gap between the resources schools have and the support students need to plan the next chapter of their lives.

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"Project Next has helped me grow not only as a professional, but as a person. I have gained experience through networking, fundraising events, and leadership lessons from Project Next. My time with this organization has introduced me to amazing peers and mentors who have answered all my questions and helped guide me through a challenging year. Project Next has prepared me for my future two - ten years from now."


- Samara A.


"Being involved with Project Next has changed my high school career and will have a definite impact on my future. This program has allowed me to gain confidence and find my true voice. Before, I was never able to speak publicly or talk to professionals, but now with the skills I acquired from Connect to Careers, Networking hours and the Project Next staff, I am able to speak proud and confident. With what I have learned, I can spread the resources and information that Project Next and the Future Center holds, helping my peers seek their goals and pursue what they are passionate for. Truthfully, being a part of this astounding program has made such a great impact on the person I am today within this year, and will continue to be a driving force in my future plans."


- Cassidy B.

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A woman with curly hair is wearing a black shirt and smiling.

"As someone who is first generation, it is difficult to research and find information about my future on my own, along with the lack of guidance on where I'm headed or want to go. However, Thanks to Project Next, not only have I refined my speech and gained confidence on what to say in interviews but I also now have guidance and the ability to conduct research on what I want to do from their helpful programs and events."


- Janice M.

how we're funded


We are deeply grateful to each of our generous supporters. Together, we’ve empowered thousands of students to take control of their futures with confidence and purpose. Your belief in our mission has allowed us to provide life-changing opportunities, opening doors for young people who might otherwise never have realized their full potential.



Thanks to your partnership, we’ve been able to expand our reach, serve more students, and make a lasting impact on the lives of those who need it most. Together, we are shaping a future where every student is prepared and unstoppable.

A heartfelt thank you to our generous donors


Join us in supporting student futures


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Help fund our empowering programs, services, and events.

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Get Involved

Give your time and expertise to support local high schoolers

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Awards and Community Involvement


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