At Soar, we proudly serve as the designated Area Directors of Area 8 in South Carolina within the esteemed Special Olympics network. This designation signifies our deep commitment to upholding the values of inclusion, empowerment, and community that are at the core of the Special Olympics movement.

While our affiliation with Special Olympics provides us with valuable resources, support, and recognition, we recognized the importance of fostering sustainability and tailored programming within our local community. This recognition led us to establish our own non-profit organization, dedicated to ensuring the long-term continuity and growth of programs that directly benefit individuals with intellectual disabilities in our area.

As Area Directors, we bear the responsibility of overseeing and coordinating Special Olympics initiatives within Area 8, ensuring that our programs are inclusive, accessible, and impactful. Our role as local leaders enables us to forge strong partnerships with community organizations, secure funding, and advocate for the needs of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Through strategic planning, community engagement, and dedicated fundraising efforts, we have worked tirelessly to cultivate a sustainable framework for our programs, rooted in the principles of empowerment and inclusion. Our partnership with Special Olympics remains invaluable, providing us with guidance, inspiration, and a shared vision for creating a more inclusive society.

Together with Special Olympics, our community partners, and dedicated volunteers, we are committed to building a future where individuals of all abilities have the opportunity to thrive, succeed, and soar to new heights of achievement and fulfillment.

To participate in Special Olympics programs, athletes must meet the following criteria:

Be at least 8 years old (With the exception of our Young Athletes Program for ages 2-7

Be identified by an agency or medical professional as having one of the following conditions:

Intellectual disability

Cognitive delay as determined by standardized measures such as intelligence quotient or other accepted measures

A closely related developmental disability, which means functional limitations in both general learning and adaptive skillsDescription text goes here

1. Volunteer Opportunities:

SOAR relies on the dedication and enthusiasm of volunteers to support our programs and events. Volunteers play a crucial role in coaching, mentoring athletes, assisting with events, and providing administrative support. If you're interested in volunteering with SOAR, please visit our Volunteer page for more information on current opportunities and how to get started.

2. Become a Unified Partner:

Unified Partners are individuals without intellectual disabilities who train and compete alongside athletes as teammates. If you're passionate about sports and inclusion, consider becoming a Unified Partner and joining one of our teams. It's a rewarding experience that fosters friendship, teamwork, and mutual respect.

3. Donate to Support Our Mission:

Your generous donations help us sustain and expand our programs, ensuring that individuals with intellectual disabilities have access to sports, recreation, and social activities. Whether you're able to make a one-time donation or contribute regularly, your support makes a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. Visit our Donate page to learn more about how you can make a donation to SOAR.

4. Spread the Word:

Help us raise awareness about SOAR and our mission to promote inclusion, empowerment, and community engagement. Share our website, social media posts, and Donate pageupcoming events with your friends, family, and colleagues. By spreading the word, you can help us reach more individuals and expand our impact.

5. Attend Our Events:

Join us at our upcoming events, fundraisers, and community activities. Your participation not only helps us raise funds and awareness but also provides an opportunity to connect with other supporters, athletes, and volunteers. Check our Events page for information on upcoming events and how you can get involved.

6. Partner with Us:

If you represent a business, organization, or community group that shares our values and goals, consider partnering with SOAR. Together, we can collaborate on projects, initiatives, and events that promote inclusion, diversity, and social responsibility. Contact us to explore partnership opportunities.

Still Have Questions?

If you have any other questions about how to get involved with SOAR or would like more information, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're always happy to hear from you and welcome your support in any capacity.

At SOAR, we are dedicated to providing inclusive and accessible programs for individuals of all abilities without imposing financial barriers to participation. We firmly believe that everyone should have the opportunity to engage in sports, recreation, and social activities, regardless of their financial circumstances.

Program Fees:

We are proud to offer our programs to athletes free of charge. We do not impose any participation fees, ensuring that all individuals have equal access to our services and opportunities for growth and development.

Financial Support:

SOAR operates entirely through the generosity of donors, grants, and community support. By relying on donations and grants, we are able to cover the costs associated with running our programs, including equipment, facility rentals, transportation, and other essential expenses.

Occasional Costs:

While the vast majority of our programs are offered at no cost to participants, there may be rare occasions where additional expenses arise. For example, if we organize overnight trips or special events that require extra resources, there may be a small accompanying cost. However, we always strive to keep these costs to a minimum and provide advance notice whenever possible.

Parent/Guardian Participation:

In cases where parents or guardians accompany athletes to events or trips, we may request that they cover their own expenses. This helps us ensure that our resources are directed towards supporting our athletes and maintaining the accessibility of our programs for all participants.

Join Us:

We invite you to join us in our mission to create a more inclusive and supportive community through the power of sports, recreation, and social activities. Whether you're interested in participating, volunteering, donating, or spreading the word, there are numerous ways you can get involved and make a positive impact with SOAR.

At SOAR, we offer a diverse range of Special Olympics sports designed to cater to various interests, abilities, and skill levels. Whether you're passionate about team sports, individual competitions, or recreational activities, we have something for everyone. Here is a list of the Special Olympics sports currently offered by SOAR:

Basketball

Kayaking

Pickleball

Swimming

Track and Field

Bocce

Bowling

Golf

Tennis

Powerlifting

Equestrian

Cornhole

Young Athletes (Play Program for ages 2-7 with and without intellectual disabilities)

Unified Sports (where athletes with and without intellectual disabilities compete together as teammates)

This is just a sampling of the sports available through SOAR. We are continually exploring new opportunities and expanding our offerings to meet the interests and needs of our participants. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or new to sports, there's something for everyone at SOAR.

Join us and discover the joy of sports, teamwork, and inclusion in our welcoming and supportive community!

To register for Special Olympics programs, follow these simple steps:

Explore Programs: Review our program offerings and determine which ones interest you.

Contact Jim Lewis: Reach out to Jim Lewis to check availability and reserve your spot.

Complete Forms: Fill out the athlete release form, health history form, and Special Olympics physical.

Submit Forms: Return the completed forms to Jim Lewis before attending your first event.

That's it! You're ready to participate in SOAR programs and join our inclusive community.

Still have questions? Contact Jim Lewis for assistance.

At SOAR, we offer a wide range of activities and events designed to promote inclusion, empowerment, and community engagement for individuals of all abilities. Our programs cater to diverse interests and preferences, providing something for everyone. Here are some examples of the types of activities and events you can expect to find at SOAR:

Sports Programs:

Engage in a variety of sports and athletic activities tailored to different skill levels and interests. From basketball and soccer to swimming and track and field, our sports programs offer opportunities for individuals to develop physical fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

Recreational Activities:

Enjoy a variety of recreational activities that promote fun, creativity, and social interaction. Whether it's arts and crafts, dance and movement, or outdoor adventures, our recreational programs provide opportunities for individuals to explore new interests and hobbies in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Social Events:

Participate in social events and gatherings that foster friendship, camaraderie, and community connection. From BBQs to sports parties and special celebrations, our social events provide opportunities for individuals to come together, build relationships, and create lasting memories.

Competitions and Special Events:

Take part in competitions, tournaments, and special events that showcase the talents and achievements of our participants. Whether it's a local sports competition, a regional tournament, or a statewide event, our competitions and special events offer opportunities for individuals to test their skills, challenge themselves, and celebrate their accomplishments.

Community Engagement Activities:

Get involved in community service projects, volunteer opportunities, and advocacy initiatives that promote positive change and make a difference in the lives of others. From volunteering at local events to participating in advocacy campaigns, our community engagement activities empower individuals to contribute to their communities and create a more inclusive society.

And More:

In addition to these activities, we are always exploring new opportunities and expanding our offerings to meet the evolving needs and interests of our participants. Whether you're interested in sports, recreation, social events, or community engagement, there's something for everyone at SOAR.

Join us and discover the joy of being part of our inclusive community, where everyone is welcome, valued, and celebrated!

SOAR programs are meticulously crafted to offer participants engaging experiences while ensuring their safety and well-being. Here's an overview of our program structures:

Adult Programs:

Our adult programs typically span 8 weeks, with practices held once a week. These sessions provide ample time for participants to refine their skills, build camaraderie, and prepare for competitions. Additionally, to maintain safety standards, we conduct stretching exercises at the beginning and end of each practice to minimize the risk of injuries. Furthermore, all athletes are required to complete necessary paperwork to ensure they are covered by our insurance, providing an added layer of protection for everyone involved.

Youth Programs:

In collaboration with the Beaufort and Jasper County school districts, our youth programs are primarily integrated into the school day. These programs offer students opportunities to participate in sports, recreation, and social activities as part of their regular curriculum. Our partnership ensures seamless integration, maximizing participation and engagement among students.

Year-Round Programming:

SOAR is committed to providing year-round programming for both adults and youth. Our diverse offerings include sports seasons, clinics, workshops, and special events designed to keep participants active and involved throughout the year.

Safety Measures:

The safety of our participants is paramount. To uphold safety standards, we conduct stretching exercises at the beginning and end of each adult practice session. Additionally, all athletes are required to complete necessary paperwork, ensuring they are covered by our insurance policy while at practice or at an event. This precautionary measure provides peace of mind for both participants and organizers.

Join Us:

Join us at SOAR and experience the structured, inclusive, and safe environment of our programs. Whether you're an adult honing your skills once a week or a youth participant engaging in activities during the school day, there's something for everyone in our programs.

At SOAR, we appreciate and rely on the support of our community members to help us fulfill our mission of promoting inclusion, empowerment, and community engagement for individuals of all abilities. If you're unable to volunteer or participate directly in our programs, there are still several meaningful ways you can support SOAR:

1. Make a Donation:

Consider making a financial contribution to SOAR to help us sustain and expand our programs. Your donation will directly support the costs associated with equipment, facility rentals, transportation, and other essential expenses, ensuring that individuals with intellectual disabilities have access to sports, recreation, and social activities.

2. Spread the Word:

Help us raise awareness about SOAR and our mission by sharing our website, social media posts, and upcoming events with your friends, family, and colleagues. By spreading the word, you can help us reach more individuals and expand our impact in the community.

3. Attend Fundraising Events:

Support SOAR by attending our fundraising events, such as charity galas, benefit concerts, or community festivals. Your participation not only helps us raise funds but also provides an opportunity to connect with other supporters and learn more about our organization's impact.

4. Volunteer Skills or Services:

If you have specialized skills or services that could benefit SOAR, consider volunteering your expertise. Whether it's graphic design, marketing, event planning, or legal advice, your professional support can make a significant difference in helping us achieve our goals.

5. Shop or Dine for a Cause:

Look for businesses or restaurants that support SOAR through cause-related marketing initiatives. By shopping at participating stores or dining at partner restaurants, you can contribute a portion of your purchase to our organization, supporting our programs while engaging in everyday activities.

6. Corporate Matching Gifts:

Check if your employer offers a matching gift program for charitable donations. Your company may match your donation to SOAR, doubling or even tripling the impact of your contribution.

7. Join Our Advocacy Efforts:

Participate in our advocacy efforts to promote inclusion, accessibility, and equality for individuals with intellectual disabilities. By raising awareness and advocating for policy changes, you can help create a more inclusive and equitable society.

Your support, in whatever form it takes, makes a difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Thank you for considering ways to support SOAR and contribute to our shared vision of a more inclusive community!