Direct Support Professional Will Spratley helps Adult Day Support participants develop new skills in the pool…and in life!

Community outings are a favorite activity in SOAR365’s Adult Day Support program. Twice a week, our Camp Baker participants look forward to visiting the Manchester YMCA.

There, they can work out, play basketball, or go for a swim. “We let them choose what they want to do,” says Will Spratley, Direct Support Professional (DSP). “I try to mingle with everyone to make sure they’re enjoying themselves.”

But Will does more than mingle – he jumps in the pool himself!

Some of our participants have never been in a pool before. Others are overcoming fears or challenges that made swimming feel out of reach. But when they discovered that Will could swim—and that he was willing to get in with them—everything changed.

“It was game on!” says Jaime McClure, Director of Day Support, Case Management & Respite. One young woman told Jaime that she’s so eager to swim, she packs her swimsuit and towel every single day, just in case.

“Will is not required to get into the water, but he does,” says Jaime. By doing so, “he is able to build trust, be fully present, and encourage our participants to try new things.”

“Every Tuesday and Thursday, I’ve got someone asking me, ‘When are we going to get in the pool?’” Will says with a laugh.

His approach is gentle, patient and supportive. Will says having someone in the pool with our participants—explaining life jackets and demonstrating techniques— “eases them in and makes them more comfortable.” The goal isn’t just teaching swimming and safety; it’s helping participants build confidence.

Adult Day Support participants love going new places and making new friends. “Being recognized by other people in the community is so huge for them,” says Will. Participants enjoy splashing with other pool patrons and lifeguards, and Will’s guidance sets them up for social success. He helps participants understand the rules of the pool and holds them accountable. “In the real world, you’re going to have to get used to the consequences for things that you do,” Will explains.

The experience is empowering. “They learn ‘I know this skill’ or ‘I can do this’ without needing so much assistance. It gives them a sense of independence,” says Will. Caregivers often tell Will “how much they have enjoyed me helping their family member get out in the community or the positive changes they see in them at home,” he says.

Jaime agrees that Will has made quite a splash: “He’s created so much enthusiasm. It’s made a huge difference!”