The trip from Ethiopia to America is a very long journey. When he and his family settled in Richmond, Va., in 2005, Belay Meherte immediately started looking for employment. Unfortunately, in addition to the challenges of bridging language and cultural divides, Belay faced the struggle of working with a disability. Then he found SOAR365.

At SOAR365, Belay found an employer who saw his irrepressible energy, joyful spirit, and dedicated work ethic. Belay joined SOAR365’s Mobile Crew and, in the subsequent years, carved out a solid place in the squad. Today, Belay is an indispensable team member in SOAR365’s effort to clean more 600 miles of Henrico County roads every month.

“Personal growth is Belay’s hallmark. Since he has been with SOAR365, he has made steady progress,” explained Randy Britt, Director of Commercial Grounds. Belay has always had incredible drive and strong relationship skills, but through the supports at SOAR365, he’s strengthened his teamwork skills, his behavior and his attention to detail.

Belay did not allow a disability to stop him. “In fact,” explains Randy, “the arc of his personal and occupational growth demonstrates that Belay is larger than the challenges he faces. Having a purpose, teammates, expectations – in short – having a job allowed Belay to develop his skills and garner the deep satisfaction in serving both the environment and his fellow human beings.”

In 2021, SOAR365’s Mobile Crew removed more than 300,000 pounds of trash from Henrico County roads and public property – and Belay was a key force in that accomplishment. Randy adds, “The world works better because Belay works in it.” And everyone else at SOAR365 couldn’t agree more.

To find out how to join Belay’s team or see how our Business Solutions crews can help companies and municipalities in Richmond, visit the Business Solutions section of our website.