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Step Ahead Enterprises is a CARF-accredited agency providing Qualified Residential Treatment Programs (QRTPs) for boys and girls in Arizona’s foster care system. We contract with the Arizona Department of Child Safety to provide safe, structured, and supportive homes for youth who have experienced trauma and need consistent care. We operate five homes throughout Arizona’s East Valley, serving youth ages 11–18: Taylor House, Kate’s Place, Pearle’s Place, Hudson Home, and Nevada Home.
Our trauma-informed approach emphasizes respectful relationships, clear expectations, and an understanding of each youth’s experiences. We work with youth and their support teams to develop individualized service plans based on their strengths, needs, and goals. Our staff provide daily guidance and encouragement to help youth build confidence, practice healthy coping skills, and develop a sense of belonging. We support school participation, progress toward graduation, and planning for further education or employment. Through everyday responsibilities, independent living skills, athletics, creative activities, and community involvement, youth gain practical experience that helps prepare them for their future. We recognize that progress looks different for every youth and set goals that reflect their abilities and circumstances. Planning for a successful transition begins during placement. We coordinate with each youth’s team and provide aftercare support following discharge to help maintain progress and continuity of care. To learn more about Step Ahead, explore employment opportunities, or discuss ways to support the youth we serve, please contact us.
Blake Johnston is the Chief Executive Officer of Step Ahead Enterprises. He brings 10 years of experience in child welfare and became CEO on May 1, 2026. Blake also served nearly 10 years as a firefighter with the City of Chandler, where teamwork, accountability, and service to others were central to his work. Blake’s commitment to child welfare is driven by his desire to see youth in foster care succeed against difficult odds. He believes every young person deserves people who recognize their potential and support their goals. At Step Ahead, his focus is on providing consistent care, meaningful opportunities, and practical guidance that help youth build confidence, develop independence, and pursue a successful future.As a father of four, hockey player, and youth hockey coach, Blake values perseverance, teamwork, and the growth that comes through encouragement and clear expectations. He brings those values to his leadership, recognizing that progress takes time and that setbacks are part of learning. His goal is to help Step Ahead’s youth experience stability, recognize their strengths, and build lives they can be proud of.
