The Update: Volunteering

SOAR365 Volunteers are the Best!

Last month, we celebrated National Volunteer Appreciation Week from April 17 to April 22. It was a great week filled with balloons, gifts and lots of thank you cheers – all to recognize our volunteers for the work they do throughout the entire year to contribute to SOAR365’s mission.

We couldn’t achieve all that we do without the many ways you help us. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you.

UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES

RSVP for an upcoming General Volunteer Orientation

Apply to Volunteer with Adult Programs, Children & Youth, Weekend Respite, or Art on Wheels classes!

Apply to Volunteer with Summer Camps or Children & Youth Summer Session!

Find out more about 2023 fall internships!

5/13/23: Join our Spring Family Work Day!

CONTACT

Michelle Thomson

VP, Community

Engagement

804-665-1234

Lauren Adkins

Coordinator

Volunteer Engagement

804-750-0921

EMAIL:

volunteer@soar365.org

Matt Davis is Looking Toward the Future

In his work as a benefits consultant with McGriff Insurance Services, Matt Davis is enthusiastic about helping his clients select the best policy to help them access the benefits they need. Similarly, he finds his volunteer work at SOAR365 rewarding because he sees how individuals with disabilities are connected with programs and services that help them enjoy more fulfilling lives.

“I'm learning as I go,” he says, “and the more I learn, the better I understand and appreciate the importance that fundraising plays in SOAR365’s ability to provide and maintain critical human services.”

Dr. Ming Han Cha Connects with the SOAR365 Community

It’s no secret that a doctor’s life can be demanding, hectic and stressful – particularly during the early stages of medical practice. But Dr. Ming Han Cha, a physician who is beginning his career as an Internal Medicine Specialist at Southside Regional Medical Center in Petersburg, has found time to volunteer at SOAR365 and says the experience is both meaningful and rewarding.

“I realized that I have not encountered many persons living with disabilities, even while in medical training,” said Ming. “With that in mind, SOAR365 appears to be an ideal volunteer opportunity that allows me to better understand this community and its needs. I also hope to build meaningful connections along the way, as I believe human connection is an important ingredient of a fulfilling life.”

From the Desk of Laura Faison

This Saturday, May 6, the Next Generation Council is hosting its fourth annual Leadership Workshop. This virtual and free workshop is a great opportunity for emerging leaders to gain valuable knowledge on trending leadership skills while connecting with area leaders and colleagues.

This year we’re excited to introduce some stimulating new topics, including values-based leadership, diversity and inclusion, and a “fireside chat” discussing lived experiences with NGC members. The NGC is committed to the leadership development of its members and we believe leadership potential is within everyone, regardless of ability or experience. This workshop allows individuals from all backgrounds to participate and learn as they prepare for their next (or first!) leadership role.

Ladybug Fund Winetasting & Silent Auction Sets Fundraising Record!

Thanks to enthusiastic volunteers and generous supporters, last month’s SOAR365 Ladybug Fund Winetasting & Silent Auction exceeded its goal and raised more than $226,000 in support of our children’s programs serving the community. A record number of volunteers – more than 100 – made this achievement possible, as they secured silent auction items, helped set up for the event, greeted guests, coordinated mobile bidding, served beverages, and returned furniture to its proper place so the Saunders office would be ready to welcome program participants on Monday.

“Over the years, this popular event has raised more than $2.23 million for children and youth enrolled in SOAR365 activities,” noted John Walker, SOAR365 President & CEO. “None of this would be possible without the energy, commitment and passion of our volunteers.”

Thank you Shannon and Hank Carter for co-chairing Ladybug for the past two years.

See Pictures from Ladybug!

Useful Volunteer Links & Resources

Find Out More About SOAR365 Volunteer Opportunities

SOAR365 aspires to deliver best-in-class services for the individuals and families we serve through the integration of strategically cultivated and passionately committed volunteers into every program and department of the organization. By building and embracing a culture of excellence in which the needs of program participants, staff, and volunteers are exceeded, SOAR365 will be recognized as a leader in volunteer engagement in the Richmond region.