About Us
Our Story
Next Stage Customs, a nonprofit established in 2021, is a 501(c)(3) organization that provides assistance through scholarships and financial education. Decisions yield consequences, but life should give second chances. The founder of Next Stage is living proof of this.
Years ago, Krystal, founder of Next Stage, made a decision at a young age to become a mother which led to single parenthood. When most of her family and friends proclaimed that she would become another statistic and told her, her life was over, her mother said “NO,” and changed the trajectory of her life by providing her a second chance. Her mother, along with her father, volunteered to raise her child which allowed Krystal to matriculate as a nontraditional student in college and gain the valuable education that led to her second chance.
The education Krystal received from Jackson State University helped build skills, knowledge, and motivation. With her parent’s help, one of Krystal’s many life decisions didn’t cause her to accept less than the dreams she manifested for herself and her child. Although it wasn’t easy, the education she obtained made her transition to adulthood and single parenthood much easier.
Today, Krystal’s second chance has transformed into a tremendous amount of success and the desire to give back is why she founded this charity, Next Stage Customs. Though everyone’s story is different, the one commonality is help, and that is what Next Stage Customs strives to provide. Regardless of the story, help will be given. Next Stage was created to provide nontraditional students with a desire to reach the Next Stage in their lives with a helping hand. Providing second chances and opportunities for those that find themselves in need is the mission of Next Stage.
Our Mission
To provide educational resources to the community so everyone has the opportunity for growth and safety.
Our Values
Inclusion - We believe that recognition and support of ALL individuals attempting to better themselves in any way is critical.
Growth - Promote a growth mindset outside of what one thinks is possible by showing there is more than one way up.
Investment - Our investment in one future will yield multitudes of returns, paying it forward, to others and our community as a whole. Investment in yourself will yield a lifetime of accomplishment.