Here Now Next: Where Mentorship Meets Everyday Life
- Here and Now
- Sep 8
- 3 min read
Four years ago, a simple question sparked what would become Here Now Next (HNN): How can we better support young people with spinal cord injuries and mobility disabilities as they transition out of pediatric care?
That question, first raised by providers at Seattle Children’s Hospital to H&NP’s cofounder Kenny Salvini, has now blossomed into a fully funded, multi-year mentoring program designed to meet that exact need. And at the helm of this new chapter is Matt Clark, the program’s first coordinator.
Why Here Now Next?
Figuring out school, jobs, friendships, and independence is hard enough. For young adults with disabilities, it can be even more isolating—often being the only wheelchair user in a classroom or feeling the pressure to stay home because accessibility feels too daunting.
“Life is a hell of a lot bigger than just being online at home,” Matt explains. “But hearing that from your parents isn’t the same as hearing it from someone who’s lived it. That’s the heart of Here Now Next—mentors and peers showing each other what’s possible.”
HNN looks to complement programs like summer camps and adaptive sports, which run for a limited time each year, by providing a steady opportunity to connect year-round. For this first pilot year, the programNow were all working on it same time right maps doing at it will bring together young adults (ages 18–25) with mentors who share lived experience. They’ll meet monthly—in person and virtually—to swap stories, ask questions, and build real friendships that can last beyond a single season.
Meet Matt Clark
Originally from Pennsylvania, Matt moved to Seattle in 2017 and quickly found a home in H&NP. “Some spaces can unintentionally send the message that life with a disability is limiting,” he explains. “But H&NP is different. Even the tagline, Do Life, is a reminder that we can live fully and joyfully."
Matt brings to this role a background in video production and disability advocacy—two passions that have fueled his love of creativity and storytelling. Outside of work, he’s searching for his go-to dance spot, enjoys good food, and shares life with his partner, Laura. Laura has also become part of the H&NP family, using her nonprofit background to help secure funding and support the vision of HNN.
From the earliest pilot days, Matt has been working alongside core volunteers Todd Stabelfeldt and Jess Piraino to shape what the program would become. “We’ve been training, testing, and mushing together the best models of peer mentorship to fit what we’re trying to do here,” he says.
Now, as Youth Mentor Coordinator, Matt is helping to develop, oversee, and support the HNN mentorship program. He will be coordinating monthly gatherings, guiding mentor/mentee matches, and making sure participants have what they need to thrive. His responsibilities include regular check-ins with mentors, mentees, and families, co-facilitate mentor training, and keeping accessibility and inclusion at the center of every event. He also works with H&NP leadership and community partners—including hospitals, schools, and rehab centers—to strengthen outreach and continue refining the program.
What The Program Offers
For mentees (18–25): A chance to connect with peers and mentors who “get it.” Participants receive travel and participation stipends so transportation is never a barrier.
For mentors: An opportunity to share their lived experiences and model the many paths to independence and community life. Stipends are provided for their time as well.
For both: Regular gatherings—starting with the program launch on Monday, October 20, at Magnuson Park—to build meaningful, lasting relationships.
Defining Success
In its first year, Here Now Next is focusing on supporting a small, powerful cohort: 8 mentees paired with mentors who bring diverse life experiences. For Matt, success isn’t just about hitting numbers—it’s about the magic that happens when people find their people.
“We’ve all had someone who showed us what was possible,” he says. “If you didn’t, this is your chance to find that. And if you did, this is your chance to be that for someone else.”
Join Us
Here Now Next is now accepting applications for both mentees and mentors. Whether you’re a young adult looking for guidance, or someone ready to share your journey, there’s a place for you here.
Because thriving starts with finding your people.
Ready to learn more? Visit our Events page to see upcoming meetings and community events (including our Resource Expo that is coming up this September!).
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