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.
Helping the Military
Every day at the Defense Supply Center of Richmond (DSCR) Visitor Center, SOAR365 employees play an important role in keeping military operations running smoothly. Leroy Stanford, a supervisor at DSCR, explains, “We help people get access to the base, making sure only those who should be there get in.”
SOAR365 employees process military and dependent ID cards, ensure security, and help people enter the base efficiently. Across the country, the AbilityOne Program employs more than 39,000 people with disabilities, including 2,500 military veterans. Many of these workers help the Department of Defense by providing essential products and services. Their hard work allows military personnel to focus on their missions without distractions.
In addition to working at visitor centers, AbilityOne employees support military bases by maintaining vehicles, cleaning buildings, preparing food, and taking care of the grounds.
Providing Great Customer Service
SOAR365 employees take pride in offering excellent service at the Visitor Center. Stanford compares their efficiency to a fast-food chain known for great service: “I tell people all the time, we’re going to be the Chick-fil-A of ID card offices. Fast, friendly, and always done right.”
Visitors often say they’ve never had a better experience at a visitor center. Customers can fill out surveys to provide feedback, which helps employees keep improving their service. Their dedication creates a strong bond of trust between SOAR365 employees and the military community.
Helping Employees Gain Independence
SOAR365 and AbilityOne don’t just help the military—they also help employees with disabilities become financially independent. A 2024 study found that for every dollar spent on this program, the economy benefits by an average of $2.66, and as much as $4.40. These jobs pay competitive wages, allowing employees to support themselves and contribute to the economy as taxpayers.
Stanford has seen firsthand how these jobs change lives. “Some of our employees have moved into their own apartments, bought cars, and no longer just window shop. They can actually buy things with the money they’ve earned. It’s about independence, dignity, and being part of society.”
Skilled and Professional Employees
SOAR365 employees meet the same high standards as other federal contractors. Each person is placed in a job that matches their skills and strengths, ensuring smooth operations.
Stanford, who uses a wheelchair, believes in focusing on abilities: “Everybody can do something, but not everybody can do everything. We focus on putting people where they can best succeed.”
By emphasizing skills and expertise, SOAR365 ensures its employees provide valuable contributions to military operations. Their work meets strict quality standards, proving they are a reliable part of the federal workforce.
Creating Opportunities and Growth
SOAR365 shows how the right opportunities can change lives. The AbilityOne Program gives people with disabilities meaningful jobs, allowing them to help build a stronger country. Stanford sums it up well: “Not all of us have served in the military, but we can serve those who do. That’s a blessing in itself.”
Through hard work, excellent service, and economic impact, SOAR365 employees prove that ability—not disability—defines their contributions. Their work strengthens the military, improves customer experiences, and helps create a better society for everyone.
To learn more about SOAR365’s Business Solutions department, click here. And to learn more about the impactful work being done as part of SourceAmerica’s AbilityOne program, click here.