SOAR365 earned a Capital Award in the Editorials/Op-Ed Columns category at the 79th Annual Virginia Public Relations Awards, hosted by PRSA Richmond on April 30, 2026. The organization was also named a finalist in the Commonwealth Award – Internal Communications category, marking another strong year of recognition for its communications work. 

The Capital Award-winning entry, “Generosity Is More Than a Season, It’s a Commitment to Opportunity,” was written by President and CEO John Walker and published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch. The op-ed emphasized the importance of year-round generosity while raising awareness about employment barriers faced by people with disabilities and offering clear, actionable ways businesses and community members can take action.

SOAR365’s finalist recognition in the Commonwealth Award – Internal Communications category was for “Information & Inclusion: SOAR365’s Digital Signage Transformation.” This initiative showcased an innovative approach to internal communications, using a network of strategically placed digital displays to increase access to information, celebrate employees and participants, and strengthen connection across the organization.  

This year’s recognition continues a strong track record of communications excellence at SOAR365. It marks the fifth consecutive year the organization has earned at least one Virginia Public Relations Award and the third straight year winning a Capital Award. 

In recent years, SOAR365’s work has been recognized across a wide range of categories, including The Update newsletter, National Disability Employment Awareness Month campaigns, Annual Reports, SummerFest, the Ladybug Fund Winetasting & Silent Auction, and a website redesign—demonstrating the organization’s commitment to strategic, mission-driven storytelling. 

The Virginia Public Relations Awards recognize the best work in public relations and communications across the Commonwealth. In the Editorials/Op-Ed Columns category, SOAR365’s submission was selected as the top entry among finalists from across Virginia.  

SOAR365 remains committed to using strategic communications to elevate its mission, amplify the voices of those it serves, and drive meaningful impact across Central Virginia.

To learn more about SOAR365, visit soar365.org and follow SOAR365 on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. For more about PRSA, visit prsarichmond.org.