This column was written by SOAR365 President & CEO John Walker and originally appeared in the Richmond Times-Dispatch. Click here to view the post on their website.

The holidays are a time of gratitude. Spending time with family and friends warms our hearts and reminds us of the true power of giving.

But compassion and generosity aren’t just part of the holiday season — they’re a way of life. At SOAR365, we know they can guide strong communities all year long. When people invest their time, talent and resources in others, real opportunities are created.

Every day, SOAR365 helps people with disabilities to live full, meaningful lives. From early intervention pediatric therapy to job training and employment, our programs help people of all ages reach their potential while strengthening our local community.

One of the most impactful ways to create opportunities is through employment. Meaningful work isn’t just a paycheck. For adults with disabilities, it represents dignity, independence and fulfillment.

Throughout our long history serving Central Virginia, we have seen how employment transforms lives. Thanks to our Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) program, students with disabilities as young as 14 years old can begin exploring careers and gaining important skills to prepare for the workforce. The need is great — currently, 650 students in the Richmond area alone are waiting to receive these services.

After graduation, our Supported Employment program helps adults with disabilities overcome barriers by providing job coaching, skills training, and ongoing support. In 2025, nearly 250 people participated in these programs, designed to help them find jobs that match their strengths and ambitions — jobs that allow them to contribute to their communities and build confidence every day.

Myles is a great example. When he first came to SOAR365, he wasn’t sure anyone would recognize his abilities. Through our Pre-ETS and Supported Employment programs, he explored career options, completed an internship, and received personalized training and coaching. Today, Myles works at a Walgreens fulfillment center. The job has provided far more than just a paycheck — it’s increased his independence and self-confidence. “I am proud of my work!” says Myles. His story is one of many that shows the power of giving people the chance to succeed.

But we can’t do this work alone. Local corporate and foundation support has played a critical role in expanding the reach and impact of Supported Employment. Their generosity is creating life-changing opportunities across our region and charting a course to help more than 500 people with disabilities secure meaningful employment by 2030.

There are three ways partners can make a meaningful impact:

1. Hire people with disabilities through SOAR365’s Supported Employment program. Our team helps identify roles that match candidates’ strengths and supports both the employer and employee for long-term success.

2. Offer learning opportunities for students in SOAR365’s Pre-ETS program. Internships and work-based learning experiences allow youth with disabilities to explore career options and build needed skills.

3. Create an inclusive culture. Disability awareness training, inclusive policies, adaptive technology, and equitable hiring practices open doors for skilled, dedicated workers.

Organizations that partner with SOAR365 don’t just fill positions — they gain committed employees who bring unique perspectives and strengthen workplace culture.

Every dollar invested in SOAR365 translates into real-world outcomes: an adult finding meaningful employment, or a family receiving support that helps them thrive. These aren’t just numbers. They are stories of resilience, hope, and progress happening right here in Richmond.

As we enter the giving season, I invite you to make generosity a habit that extends beyond the holidays. Volunteer. Donate. And if you’re a business leader, consider partnering with SOAR365 to open doors for people with disabilities. When we invest in others consistently and with purpose, we don’t just change their lives — we build a stronger community for all of us.

Learn more about how you can support SOAR365 and our Employment Services at soar365.org.