Navigating Pathways to Next

This resource guide is designed for community-based organizations (CBOs) that are incorporating navigation and postsecondary transition coaching into their programming for high-school-aged youth and young adults. Whether you’re exploring the possibility of adding these services or looking to strengthen existing supports, this guide provides practical tools, training opportunities, rich examples, and proven strategies to help you get started.

The staff in CBOs, who often have long-standing relationships with youth and families, are ideally positioned to develop these navigator functions. They can provide the continuity of support, personalized attention, and culturally grounded guidance that adapts to a young person’s evolving needs—before, during, and after transitions.

The resources compiled here were developed or recommended by leading national organizations with decades of experience in youth development and postsecondary success programming. From free online courses to comprehensive toolkits, these materials will help you understand the navigator role and develop staff skills and knowledge on the path toward building sustainable support systems that meet young people where they are and guide them toward their goals.

This guide was developed by Knowledge to Power Catalysts for the Partnership for Student Success. It may be updated from time to time by the Partnership for Student Success as new research and resources become available.