For more than two years, Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing has partnered with SOAR365 to give nursing students hands-on experience while supporting adults with disabilities.
Bon Secours nursing students complete a semester of service with staff and Adult Day Support program participants at SOAR365’s Staples Mill and Saunders locations. Nursing students participate in daily activities, crafts, and more. They also lead health-focused lessons, teaching participants about topics such as proper handwashing, white coat syndrome, and other wellness practices.
At the Staples Mill location, the in-person clinical experience is led by Kiara Cabrera, MSN-Ed, RN, a nursing instructor at Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing. Cabrera oversees eight nursing students who volunteer while completing their clinical hours.
“Community nursing is a passion of mine, and this partnership allows me to combine teaching with community engagement,” Cabrera shared. “This course gives students the chance to take what they learn in the classroom and apply it directly in the community.”
Bon Secours Memorial College of Nursing offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and the students who work with SOAR365 are Junior II students in their third semester, enrolled in the Population and Global Health Practicum. This course focuses on working with communities that need extra healthcare support and helps students learn how to provide respectful care for people from different backgrounds. The class combines online learning with real-world community experiences like those experienced by volunteering at SOAR365.
“Students care for individuals in their daily environment, using the skills they’ve learned to provide whole-person care,” Cabrera explained. “They build meaningful relationships with participants and really look forward to coming back each week.”
Students strengthen communication skills, build confidence in making care decisions, and gain a broader understanding of community-based care.
“This experience gives students a new perspective on caring for individuals with disabilities and other populations that may need additional healthcare support,” Cabrera said. “They build skills they will carry with them throughout their careers.”
Cabrera shares her appreciation for the Staples Mill leadership and team members who actively support student learning and participation. “The SOAR365 staff create a safe, welcoming environment where everyone can learn and grow,” she said. “It’s clear that participants truly thrive here.”
Interested in volunteering with SOAR365? Learn more by exploring our website or contact Liz Harris Baker, Director of Volunteer Engagement, at (804) 665-1210 or [email protected]. SOAR365 offers fun and rewarding opportunities for individuals or groups to give back!