This story originally appeared in the 2025 SOAR365 Annual Report. Click here to view a digital version of the report.
Respite gives participants confidence and connection, while caregivers get a much-needed break.
If you’re ever lucky enough to meet Zach, one of the first things you’ll notice is his bright smile and cheerful energy. “He’s friendly and very outgoing,” says his mom, Jessicah. “He loves being around people, doing activities, and going outside. Especially to parks or the beach.”
Zach is mostly nonverbal, but that doesn’t stop him from communicating. He uses gestures, note cards, and his iPad to share his thoughts. His favorite phrase? “Good boy!”— something he says proudly with a grin.
Zach’s story with SOAR365 began years ago when he was just 10 years old and attended Summer Camp at Camp Baker. “That’s how we first discovered SOAR365,” Jessicah explains. “He had such a great experience at camp that when he graduated high school this past May, it just made sense to come back.”
After finishing school at St. Joseph’s Villa in May 2025, Zach was ready for the next step. Jessicah wanted a program that would help him grow, stay active, and be part of a community—not just a place to “sit around.” She explored several options, but SOAR365 stood out. “It’s a good fit,” she says. “The staff are caring, it focuses on skill building, and Zach feels comfortable there.”
In June, Zach began attending SOAR365’s Adult Day Support program at Camp Baker. Soon after, he also started participating in the Respite program on some weekends. For Jessicah, this combination has been life-changing. “It really is a lifesaver,” she says. “Everyone needs a break sometimes. As a single mom, it gives me peace of mind knowing Zach is safe, happy, and surrounded by people who care about him.”
That trust is what SOAR365’s Respite program is all about. It’s one of the only overnight out of home respite options in Central Virginia for people with disabilities. Families can relax knowing their loved one is enjoying fun, meaningful activities while being supported by trained staff.
At SOAR365’s Respite program, weekends are filled with hands-on, meaningful activities. Participants take part in everything from community outings – like bowling, visiting the pumpkin patch, or shopping at local stores – to creative projects such as art, music or theater activities.
Jerri, one of the Direct Support Professionals (DSP) who works with Zach in both programs, has watched him blossom in this setting. “When I first met him, he was a little reserved,” she says. “Now he’s more social. He goes up to his peers, gives a thumbs up, and says ‘good boy.’ Even without being able to say a lot, he has his own way of connecting.”
Zach loves going on community outings, especially to the store or the swimming pool. “He’s fascinated by balloons,” Jerri adds with a laugh. “He matches the color of his balloon to his shirt every morning.”
But behind the laughter, Jerri sees something deeper: growth and confidence. “I get emotional seeing our individuals open up and try new things,” she says. “Zach communicates more now. He’s learning how to greet people in the community, say hi to a cashier, or ask for something he wants.”
At home, Jessicah notices the same progress. She and Zach create a daily schedule together using index cards and a whiteboard. “He loves checking things off,” she says. “It helps him understand his day, and he’s learned to handle changes better.”
For Jessicah, SOAR365 has provided more than just care—it’s given her son opportunities to grow and thrive. “He hasn’t had any self-injurious behaviors since he started,” she says proudly. “He’s happier, calmer, and more independent.”
Jerri agrees. “SOAR365 is like a family,” she says. “We’re here with these individuals every day. We care for them; we celebrate with them. Seeing them succeed means everything.”
For Zach and his mom, that family feeling makes all the difference. “I’m so thankful,” Jessicah says. “There’s no other place like this.”
To learn more about SOAR365’s Respite program, click here. And to keep up to date on all things SOAR365, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.