Preparing Teens for What Comes Next with Next Level Labs

At The Austin Foundation, we believe that preparing young people for adulthood means more than helping them graduate — it means giving them the tools to thrive beyond the classroom. As we continue our mission to close the gap between potential and opportunity, we’re proud to introduce our newest after-school program under the Becoming Young Adults initiative, Next Level Labs.

Next Level Labs is a hands-on, after-school program designed to equip high school students with the real-world skills they need to navigate life after graduation — from budgeting and career exploration to confidence-building and decision-making. Developed in response to what we’ve heard directly from students, this program removes traditional barriers to learning and focuses on what matters most — practical, personal growth.

At the core of this effort is Level All, a digital platform that empowers young adults to plan their future across college, trades, entrepreneurship, and more — all in one accessible place. Whether attending in-person sessions or participating online, students gain tools to map out their next steps and earn credentials that support their career or academic goals.

Through mentorship, experiential learning, and ongoing support, Next Level Labs reflects our commitment to ensuring that every student has access to meaningful preparation for adulthood. This is not just about readiness. It’s about empowerment.

As we launch this new chapter of Becoming Young Adults, we remain grateful to our partners, donors, and community supporters who make programs like this possible. Together, we are investing in the future of youth — one confident, capable young adult at a time.

To learn more or support this initiative email us at hello@theaustinfoundation.org or make a direct gift at givebutter.com/nextlevel.