A day in the life of a SOAR365 Supported Employment participant.
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![Discussing Disability Podcast – August 2025 [AUDIO]](https://soar365.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Will-Froude-Podcast-Cover-Image.png)
Discussing Disability Podcast – August 2025 [AUDIO]
In this inspiring episode of Discussing Disability, host Nate Wise talks with Trent McFadden, Assistant Vice President of SOAR365’s Ability One program, and Will Froude, a U.S. Army veteran and small engine mechanic on SOAR365’s Bellwood team.
Aidan’s Journey With CMV: Early Intervention Leads to Success
When Aidan was born, he failed his newborn hearing screening and was diagnosed with congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV). His mother quickly began reading everything she could on the illness and its impact on infants.
Jacob’s Journey From Custodian to Crew Leader
Jacob Hoffman knew his career wasn’t going where he had hoped and, in 2015, he decided to make a change. It didn’t take long before he found work at SOAR365, and it changed his life forever.
Jumping In Together: How One DSP Creates Confidence and Connection
Direct Support Professional Will Spratley helps Adult Day Support participants develop new skills in the pool…and in life!
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.
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.
DSCR’s Renovated Visitor Control Center Prioritizes Service, Security
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.
How SOAR365 Helped David Find Confidence, Community — and a Career
“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.
A Healthy Partnership: Walgreens & SOAR365
Ask Myles if he likes working at Walgreens, and his response is enthusiastic: “Well, yeah! I do!” It’s his very first job. “I am proud!” he says, beaming.