In this edition of Stories from PARK365, we share the story of Kathryn Shapiro, whose first-born son was born prematurely and required Pediatric Therapy services at SOAR365 and is now thriving and playing at PARK365!
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Jumping In Together: Creating Confidence and Connection
Direct Support Professional Will Spratley helps Adult Day Support participants develop new skills in the pool…and in life!
A Mother’s Work Sparks a Lifelong Passion for Service
Sometimes a childhood memory lasts a lifetime – and impacts decisions many years later. That’s what happened for Mike Beall, Executive Vice President at Davenport & Company.
New Team Helps Employees with Disabilities Succeed at Work and in Life
Chase Prince has worked with SOAR365 as a Production Worker at AmerisourceBergen for several years. As someone who struggles with processing delays, his time at work is often marked with challenges related to decision-making, multitasking, time management, and more.
To address challenges like these, Business Solutions created a new team to support employees with disabilities, led by FaithAnn Zamparelli, Manager of Internal Employee Supports. The team’s goal is to help employees with disabilities find success in the workplace while also providing support with their life goals.
Understanding Virginia’s Blue Envelope Program
The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has started a new initiative called the Blue Envelope Program. It is made to help drivers with autism spectrum disorder feel safer and less stressed if they are pulled over by police or are in a car accident.
Brandon’s Birthday Wish Comes True at His “Happy Place”
For his birthday wish, Brandon just wanted to catch a fish—and thanks to SOAR365’s accessible Summer Camp and caring staff, his wish came true. Now a longtime camper, Brandon has grown in confidence, made lifelong friends, and found a place where he’s safe, supported, and celebrated just as he is.
SOAR365 Welcomes New Members to Board of Directors
Beginning on July 1, 2025, SOAR365 is excited to welcome four new members to its Board of Directors, as well as two longstanding members into new roles.
Why I Give to SOAR365: Christie & Steve Fargis
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.
From Music to Marketing: How Pia Discovered Her Creative Career Path Through SOAR365
“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.
Volunteers Are Critical to SOAR365’s Mission
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!