Respite & Summer Camp give families time to recharge
Moving Up
Youth Services graduates take on new adventures
A Perfect Match
Timothy finds joy working with animals 2
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Recycling with Purpose SOAR365 turns paper into impact— and diapers
Ladybug Turns 25: Celebrating a quarter century of raising glasses and raising funds for SOAR365’s programs
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Ryan Downs, Andrew Romano, Meg Downs, David Downs and Kara Romano
A Lifeline for Families, A Launchpad for Independence
SOAR365’s Respite and Summer Camp programs transform the lives of both caregivers and their loved ones with disabilities.
What makes SOAR365’s Respite program so special? It not only offers an essential break for caregivers, but also fun and adventure for their loved ones with disabilities.
“Sam loves going there!” says his mom, Rachell. “He gets excited. He’s very social, and he likes people that are really expressive and gregarious. The staff are always super happy around him.”
Sam is a familiar friendly face at SOAR365. He’s been coming to Summer Camp and Respite for years, and he recently graduated from our Youth Services program to Adult Day Support. While Sam will still be with SOAR365 and living at home, it’s a moving milestone.
“We want Sam to have a fulfilling life,” say his parents, Rachell and Jon. “We want him to be happy. We know he can’t just pick up and do whatever he wants whenever he wants, like most people can.”
SOAR365’s Respite program helps give Sam more independence. There, he gets to try out new activities and enjoy time with friends. He especially loves music and swimming in the pool. On days he can get in, “he has a blast!” says Rachell.
Sam has an ileostomy, a g-tube and a seizure disorder; he’s also more prone to getting sick. Knowing there are nurses on staff at Camp Baker gives Rachell and Jon peace of mind so they can take a much-needed break. Without occasional respite, caregivers are at risk of stress-related burnout and health issues themselves.
DID YOU KNOW?
SOAR365 Is a Top Workplace
SOAR365 has been named a Top Workplace in Richmond for the fourth year in a row! “We know employee feedback is essential to becoming an employer of choice,” says John Walker, President & CEO of SOAR365. “By attracting and retaining the best people, we can achieve our goal of being best-in-class in everything that we do.”
“We are just thankful for it because it has given us a lifeline,” says Rachell. “Just being able to feel comfortable and to know that he’s being taken care of and they know him.” Rachell says that respite allows her to “focus, relax and enjoy” vacations and other self-care activities. Once she’s filled her cup, she’s ready to go back to the job she loves most – being Sam’s loving mom.
For the fourth year in a row, we were named a RICHMOND TIMES-DISPATCH TOP WORKPLACE.
ABOVE: Campers love to sing and dance at the Talent Show! RIGHT: Sam pets a bearded dragon.
Proud Moments in PARK365: SOAR365 Youth Services Graduates Shine
Celebrating the next steps in our participants’ lives
Four of our Youth Services participants graduated to Adult Day Support this May! SOAR365 held a special graduation ceremony on May 20th in PARK365. Family and friends cheered on their loved ones as they celebrated with cupcakes and certificates.
In honor of this major milestone, our staff wanted to share a little bit about each of our graduates:
SAM
“As Sam transitions out of our Youth Services, we celebrate the joy he’s brought to the program. His love for music and sensory items, his playful energy, and the way he lights up around friends will be remembered with a smile.”
DEAN
“Dean loves dancing to old school music. We’ve seen incredible growth in his independence and transitions, a true reflection of his hard work and vibrant spirit. He also enjoys spending time with his family in the Outer Banks.”
JOSEPH
“Joseph’s kind heart and clear communication have made a lasting impact. His love for music, swimming, the outdoors, and time with friends was always matched by his eagerness to help others and spread joy.”
GAVIN
“Gavin has been with SOAR365 for many years. His love for people and joy in connecting with friends has made him a special presence in our program. He loves going out in the community and having friends read to him.”
“It’s been such an honor to get know each of our graduates,” says Jaime McClure, Director of Day Support, Case Management & Respite Services. “I can’t wait to see what new challenges they take on this year in Adult Day Support!”
Our Youth Services graduates pose with their DSPs and case manager, proudly showing off their certificates.
Ladybug 2025 Recap
The 25th Ladybug Fund Winetasting & Silent Auction was a night to remember!
On Saturday, April 5th, guests enjoyed delicious food, fine wines, lively music, and a fun silent auction. All proceeds support children and youth with disabilities.
The Ladybug Fund started in 2000 when a group of parents wanted to increase funding for SOAR365’s Pediatric Therapy program.
Since then, the event has raised nearly $3 million. This year alone, it brought in $294,000 to help support SOAR365 programs.
“This event provides much-needed funding, continuing SOAR365’s mission to create life-fulfilling opportunities for individuals with disabilities,” says SOAR365 Board Vice Chair and Ladybug Co-Chair, Tom Cricchi.
A special thank you to the event’s 40 sponsors and our silent auction donors. Your generosity is greatly appreciated!
THANK YOU TO THE 2025 LADYBUG FUND WINETASTING & SILENT AUCTION VINEYARD SPONSORS:
T HE REINHART FOUNDATION
VCU Women’s Volleyball Shines at Gold & Glitter Ball
On Wednesday, April 16th, the Adult Day Support program at Saunders held a “Gold & Glitter Ball” prom. Wearing their finest clothes, participants enjoyed a day filled with music, dancing and laughter.
The prom committee—participants Drew, Portia, Pamela, Rebecca, and Laura—worked hard to make the event sparkle. They also had the support of special guests: the VCU Women’s Volleyball Team.
“Our team had the incredible opportunity to help make the Gold & Glitter Ball memorable,” said Kalina Pylinska, a senior on the team. “We truly enjoyed every moment.”
The VCU athletes jumped right in! You could find them dancing, posing for photos, assisting with arts and crafts, helping with make-up, and escorting participants down the gold carpet.
“This organization has meant a great deal to me personally and as a longterm partner to our volleyball program,” says Tim Doyle, VCU Head Volleyball Coach. “A special shoutout to the SOAR365 staff for helping us ‘level up’ our game this spring! It is a sincere honor to collaborate and put on such a spectacular event for participants.”
LEFT TO RIGHT: Ladybug Founder & Co-Chair, Thom Horsey, chats with Dr. Joe and April Niamtu, who generously donated $10,000 to SOAR365.
Longtime Board Members Take on New Leadership Roles
Building on years of dedication, Tom Cricchi and Rohana Meade provide trusted guidance for SOAR365’s next chapter.
TOM CRICCHI Board Chair
“Having served on the Board of Directors for nearly 10 years, I continue to be inspired by SOAR365’s exceptional impact. Our comprehensive services for people with disabilities in Central Virginia are recognized as best-in-class, so as the incoming Chair of the Board I will focus on advancing donor development and fundraising - both critical to sustaining our success.”
ROHANA MEADE Board Vice Chair
“I’m honored to take on the role of Vice Chair of the SOAR365 Board for the upcoming year. Advocating for individuals with disabilities in our community is a true passion of mine. I’m committed to advancing SOAR365’s mission by helping foster greater inclusion, opportunity, and visibility for the people we serve. Together, we can create a community where every individual’s potential is not only recognized—but championed.”
Welcoming New Members to the SOAR365 Board of Directors
Fresh faces bring years of expertise—and a lot of heart—to guide us in fulfilling our mission.
KEYANNA CONNER
Managing Director, Deloitte Consulting LLP
“The organization’s dedication to inclusivity, as evidenced by its commitment to a person-centered approach, deeply resonates with me. I am particularly impressed by SOAR365’s significant growth in pediatric therapy and supported employment, demonstrating its effectiveness in serving a large and growing number of children and adults. The opportunity to contribute to such a vital and expanding organization is incredibly exciting.”
“I am honored to join a group of dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to support members of our community living with disabilities. I’m deeply inspired by the mission of the organization and look forward to finding meaningful ways in which I can contribute.”
ROBERT F. REDMOND, JR.
Partner, McGuireWoods
“My family has benefitted from SOAR365’s great work for the past 18 years—since my Down Syndrome daughter Maura began receiving therapy. I have always been impressed by the skill and joy of the staff and leadership. As my daughter moves into the next phase of her life, I look forward to helping SOAR365 expand, improve and elevate the lives and opportunities of those with disabilities.”
MARK TRIPODI Chief Operating Officer
At Home Harmony
“SOAR365’s life changing programs and services support a community with real needs. The organization’s strong sense of mission, fiscal responsibility, and commitment to excellence make it as compelling an organization as I’ve found. I can think of no better place to invest my time and energy.”
Finding the right job for each participant with disabilities is a great feeling! SOAR365 Employment Specialist
Erik Schmidt and participant Timothy Glasgow are all smiles, even while working hard.
Timothy Finds Purpose and Community at RVA Goats and Honey
For Timothy Glasgow, working at RVA Goats and Honey combines his love for animals and hands-on work.
Timothy, who has a disability, found the job through SOAR365’s Supported Employment program. For nearly a year, he’s been responsible for feeding and caring for a variety of animals, including goats, pigs, sheep, and donkeys. He makes sure that their stalls are clean, working hard to maintain a healthy and organized environment for the animals.
“Timothy’s really fallen into the job quite quickly,” says Mike, a team member at RVA Goats and Honey. “He’s become selfsufficient in his work and efficient in how he does it. I think he’s overcome whatever limitations he thought he had.”
Erik Schmidt, Timothy’s SOAR365 job coach, has been there every step of the way. First, he took the time to get to know Timothy, including his strengths, weaknesses, goals and interests. Next, Erik worked hard to find a job that would be a great fit for Timothy, helping him navigate the application process.
Today, you can still find Erik and Timothy rolling up their sleeves together! On the job site, Erik continues to provide crucial instruction, support,
and encouragement to ensure Timothy’s success.
At RVA Goats and Honey, Timothy has gained more than work experience and financial independence. He’s also developed life skills, including improved patience and prioritization.
“Timothy is more than just a worker to us, and for him, it’s more than just a job,” Mike noted. “He puts his whole heart into this.”
SOAR365’s Supported Employment team took the time to understand Timothy’s needs. Today, he has a career path that brings him joy, stability and a deep sense of accomplishment.
THANK YOU TO THE RICHARD S. REYNOLDS FOUNDATION FOR THEIR GIFT OF $50,000 FOR EMPLOYMENT SERVICES
“SOAR365 is an absolute crown jewel in the metro Richmond non-profit community, creating meaningful opportunities for those individuals with disabilities! Kudos to SOAR365’s dedicated volunteers and staff for the incredible impacts made in our community on a daily basis!”
SARGE REYNOLDS, PRESIDENT| RICHARD S. REYNOLDS FOUNDATION
Turning Paper into Diapers: SOAR365’s Recycling Program Makes It Happen at DSCR
Recycling at the Defense Supply Center Richmond (DSCR) is doing more than helping the planet. It’s making a real difference in people’s lives.
Each week, SOAR365 team members collect paper, cardboard, plastic and aluminum from buildings at DSCR. They sort the items, shred them and pack them into large bales. The plastic and aluminum are sent to other companies to be reused. Meanwhile, the paper and cardboard go to International Paper, where they are turned into new things, like diapers.
Sean Ingram works in the recycling center. He does many jobs, like sorting and weighing materials, and he also drives a forklift to load pallets of recycled materials onto trucks. “It feels good knowing all this work is helping make something important, like diapers,” Sean said. “We’re making a difference.” Sean has worked for SOAR365 for 20 years and takes great pride in keeping the recycling center clean and organized.
In 2024, SOAR365 recycled over 86 tons of material. That’s about as heavy as 14 elephants! For this amazing work, they won a Recycling Excellence Award from International Paper.
And 2025 is off to a strong start—by spring, SOAR365 had already recycled more than 23 tons. That number keeps growing.
Mark Biggs is part of the Janitorial & Custodial team. “I go building to building picking up everything: paper, cardboard, bottles, cans and more,” he said. “When I found out we recycled over 86 tons last year, I was blown away. We’re doing something big here.”
Recycling is just one of the ways SOAR365 helps at DSCR. SOAR365’s Business Solutions division provides jobs to nearly 100 people with disabilities. At DSCR, they not only help with recycling, but also work in landscaping, cleaning, and at the visitor center. These jobs help people earn money, learn new skills, and feel proud of their work.
While Mark does not have a disability, he often trains and works with employees who do. “I make sure everyone feels safe and supported,” he said. “We work together, and we look out for each other.
Mark’s journey with SOAR365 began 15 years ago when he was hired as a “Floater,” helping whenever and wherever he was needed most. He eventually earned a promotion to Crew Leader thanks to his hard work and skill. But for him, recognition isn’t as important as the real purpose of his work. “We want to show everyone that SOAR365 cares about making a difference for our coworkers, customers and community.”
By combining environmentalism and disability employment, SOAR365 is helping change materials and mindsets, showing that everyone has the power to make a lasting impact.
Mark Biggs stands beside stacked bundles of crushed aluminum cans, ready to be recycled.
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A little voice sings, “Let’s go to the Sam!” Four-year-old CaiaJade is excited to visit her long-time friend and physical therapist, Sam Cipolla, at SOAR365. She lovingly calls the glass building at our Saunders location “the Sam museum”—home to Central Virginia’s largest early intervention program.
CaiaJade began therapy at just seven months old, even before being diagnosed with cerebral palsy. With Sam’s help, she worked on everything from holding a spoon to taking her first steps. “Sam helped us with the gait trainer so she could learn to walk. She has so many resources,” says CaiaJade’s mom, Chanae.
At age three, CaiaJade aged out of early intervention, but Chanae didn’t want her to lose the therapist she loved. The family chose to continue with Sam in outpatient therapy and soon added occupational therapist Megan Pesci to CaiaJade’s team as well. Together, they help her build skills like walking, dressing and picking up toys.
Today, CaiaJade is full of energy, laughter—and independence. “At one time, doctors said she wouldn’t walk,” says Chanae, through tears. “To see her now is
amazing. I have Sam and SOAR365 to thank.”
With developmental disabilities on the rise in Virginia, SOAR365’s Pediatric Therapy program matters more than ever—and brings hope to families like CaiaJade’s every day.
