SOAR
Foundation for Blind Children’s SOAR Program is a 9-month transition program that supports blind and visually impaired young adults as they navigate finding their first job, internship, or volunteer opportunity as they prepare for their future career. Along with our Teen-to-Work and College Prep programs, SOAR builds the tools and skills needed to live independently and to be successful in the workforce.
SOAR stands for Success, Opportunity, Advocacy, and Responsibility. The commitment for a student in the SOAR Program is September through May. Students will be required to attend a combination of 1:1 check-ins and small group workshops (virtually or in-person), which will help the student grow in all areas of life. The key areas of growth are: growth in confidence, real-world experiences, and creating a plan for the future.
FBC is thankful for the continued collaboration and partnership with Arizona Rehabilitation Services Administration to provide a program like SOAR for Vocational Rehabilitation Clients.
What to Expect in SOAR
September – December
- Monthly workshops and check-ins covering a variety of topics such as Job Readiness, Networking, Advocacy, Disability Rights in Life, Education, and Employment.
- Virtual check-ins with FBC SOAR Instructor.
January – May
- Implementing skills learned in the fall to secure a job, internship, or volunteer experience.
- Virtual and In-person check-ins throughout the month with an FBC SOAR Instructor working through concepts such as:
- Plan of Action for College, Trade School, or beyond.
- Orientation & Adjustment.
- Overall Career Readiness
What to Expect in SOAR
September – December
- Monthly workshops and check-ins covering a variety of topics such as Job Readiness, Networking, Advocacy, Disability Rights in Life, Education, and Employment.
- Virtual check-ins with FBC SOAR Instructor.
January – May
- Implementing skills learned in the fall to secure a job, internship, or volunteer experience.
- Virtual and In-person check-ins throughout the month with an FBC SOAR Instructor working through concepts such as:
- Plan of Action for College, Trade School, or beyond.
- Orientation & Adjustment.
- Overall Career Readiness
Ideal Candidates
- Young adults ages 14 – 22.
- Individuals who are committed and have a growth mindset.
- Willing to work with a SOAR instructor towards getting their first job, internship, or consistent volunteer experience.
- Enrolled and in good standing with Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services and have a current Individual Plan for Employment (IPE).
Enrollment
- To be eligible to apply to SOAR, you must be an active client with Vocational Rehabilitation Services.
- If you are interested to apply, you can submit your information below. You will receive a link to apply online from Melanie Audet, and then will be contacted for an interview to determine your enrollment status.
- The SOAR Program for 2023-2024 has already begun and is full.
- The application window for the August 2024 – May 2025 school year opens March 1st, 2024, and the deadline to apply is May 30th, 2024.
If you have any questions, or would like to request information for how to enroll with Vocational Rehabilitation Services, please contact Melanie Audet.
For more information about SOAR, please contact our
Manager Transition Services | Melanie Audet
Direct: 520-344-3486
Or email us using the form below.
