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At SOAR365, our mission of creating life-fulfilling opportunities for individuals with disabilities is greatly supported by the generosity of our donors. We recently had the opportunity to speak with Christie Fargis, owner of Christie Fargis Landscape Design and a long-time supporter of SOAR365 alongside her husband, Steve. Read the Q&A below to learn more about their journey together as donors and advocates for our mission.
“Pia produces her own music. She writes all of the lyrics. It’s astounding!” says her SOAR365 employment specialist (or “job coach”) Lizzie Graham. Job coaches like Lizzie know our participants often have undiscovered talents or interests. Sometimes these skills can be overlooked due to their disability.
Volunteer efforts are critically important to SOAR365’s mission. In 2024, 1,135 volunteers donated 10,664 hours of service to SOAR365. That’s equivalent to $427,876!
SOAR365’s 2024 Annual Report highlights a year of growth, impact, and forward momentum. The report showcases powerful stories of individuals with disabilities achieving greater independence, along with strategic investments in programs, staff, and infrastructure.
Brad Franklin, Chesterfield County and the “Chesterfield: Behind the Mic” podcast welcomed SOAR365 Communications & Public Relations Manager Nate Wise to talk about all things SOAR365.
![Discussing Disability Podcast – June 2025 [AUDIO]](https://soar365.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/June-DD-Podcast-Cover-Image.png)
For our June 2025 episode, we talked with Dr. Sarah Kranz-Ciment, Founder and Executive Director of the Friendship Circle of Virginia. The discussion covered tons of information about Friendship Circle of Virginia, as well as their upcoming event – the 4th Annual Disability Inclusions Day at the Diamond.
The redesigned DSCR Visitor Center stands as a testament to the installation’s commitment to continuous improvement and the community. By prioritizing both customer experience and enhanced security measures, the project has successfully created a welcoming, efficient, and secure space for visitors and personnel alike.
SOAR365 received a prestigious Capital Award for Feature Stories and was named a finalist in the Publications category for its 2023 Annual Report at the 78th Annual Virginia Public Relations Awards, hosted by the Public Relations Society of America’s Richmond Chapter.
“My college degree was nothing compared to this,” says David, proudly. He’s talking about winning SOAR365’s “Supported Employment Participant of the Year” award — a moment that made him feel proud, seen, and a little emotional. The award wasn’t just a surprise. It was proof of how far he’s come, thanks to his hard work, his family’s support, and help from SOAR365’s Employment Services team.
SOAR365’s Summer Series invites families, individuals, and community members to join us on June 11 and July 16 for exciting activities, music, and food. Whether you’re looking for friendship, fun or fresh air, this is the place for you.
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