By combining environmentalism and disability employment, SOAR365 is helping change materials and mindsets, showing that everyone has the power to make a lasting impact.

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By combining environmentalism and disability employment, SOAR365 is helping change materials and mindsets, showing that everyone has the power to make a lasting impact.
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.
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.
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 is a member of SourceAmerica’s AbilityOne Program, a federal initiative that helps people with disabilities find jobs. This program doesn’t just create employment opportunities—it also benefits the U.S. military.
Randi Dixon, a member of the Janitorial & Custodial team, has maintained employment with SOAR365 for more than 11 years now. “I was still in school when I first heard about SOAR365,” says Randi. “It was a big experience for me to start working; I was finally being paid, I was respected by everyone, and I love the people I work with.”
Our Landscaping & Grounds Maintenance team serves the Defense Supply Center Richmond and Fort Gregg-Adams— and they never have a slow day. From mowing to leaf blowing, and from planting flowers to shoveling snow, the crew of 22 full-time employees is busy year-round.
Deborah Foster loves managing this team, which includes 17 employees with disabilities. “I appreciate everything our employees do, and I am so proud of how much they achieve,” says Deb.
James started training for his job in Landscaping & Grounds Maintenance at an early age, thanks to his dad’s landscaping business. “I’ve been cutting grass since I was five,” he says proudly.
Even so, it can be hard for people with disabilities, like James, to find a supportive work environment.
The Next Move Program’s Capable Portrait Campaign is back for an eighth year! The exhibit opening will be held on June 20 at The Virginia Home.
Brandon is the first of three models from SOAR365 who are being featured in this year’s campaign.
Weldon Hall is a man of many talents. His first experience working for SOAR365 was in facilities maintenance at Camp Baker. He enjoyed the job but left after two-and-a-half years to start his own business. “One guy in a truck doing home renovations and remodels,” he explains with a smile.
While the work let him use a wide range of skills, something was missing.
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