This month on Discussing Disability, host Nate Wise sits down with Dr. Sarah Kranz-Ciment, founder and executive director of Friendship Circle of Virginia, to explore how her organization is building a more inclusive Richmond — one friendship at a time.

Learn how Friendship Circle connects people with and without disabilities through meaningful relationships, creative programs, and community-wide events. Sarah shares how the organization has grown over the last 12 years, the impact of its innovative programs like Friends at Home, Birthday Circle, and the Disability Expo, and how inclusion transforms individuals and communities alike.

We also spotlight Disability Inclusion Day at the Diamond, coming up on June 29 — a Richmond Flying Squirrels game designed to be fully accessible, sensory-friendly, and welcoming for everyone.

Find out how you can attend this free event, support Friendship Circle’s mission, and help create a community where everyone belongs.

💡 Reserve your free tickets for Inclusion Day: inclusiondayrva.com
🌐 Learn more about Friendship Circle of Virginia: friendshipcircleva.org
📧 Comments or questions? Email us: info@soar365.org

Because inclusion benefits everyone — and it starts with a single friendship. ⚾✨

What does it mean to belong? In this episode of Discussing Disability, host Nate Wise sits down with Logan Kleene, a participant in SOAR365’s Adult Day Support program, and his mom Lynda Kleene to share their inspiring story of growth, independence, and connection.

Logan, who has autism, speech and language challenges, and developmental delays, has found a welcoming place at SOAR365 — where he learns new skills, makes friends, and feels at home. Lynda reflects on the family’s journey, what led them to SOAR365, and how the staff’s care, creativity, and dedication have made a real difference in their lives.

You’ll hear about Logan’s favorite activities, his progress toward independence, and the teamwork between his family, SOAR365’s direct support professionals, and case managers. This heartfelt conversation shows just how meaningful it can be to find a supportive community where everyone is valued.

💡 Learn more about Adult Day Support and Supported Employment at SOAR365: soar365.org
📧 Questions or comments? Email us: info@soar365.org

Because everyone deserves a place to grow, thrive, and feel like they belong. 🌟

Summer camp is more than just fun — it’s a place to build memories, friendships, and confidence. In this episode of Discussing Disability, host Nate Wise sits down with Tricia Puryear, SOAR365’s Vice President of Human Services, to explore what makes Camp Baker such a special experience for children and adults with disabilities.

Tricia shares her own professional journey and explains how Camp Baker delivers an inclusive, accessible, and traditional camp experience — complete with swimming, campfires, horseback riding, talent shows, and more. You’ll hear about how staff are trained to meet a wide range of needs, the importance of fostering independence and joy for campers, and how the community can support this one-of-a-kind program.

Whether you’re a parent, volunteer, or advocate, this conversation will inspire you to see what’s possible when everyone has the opportunity to experience camp life.

💡 Learn more or register for camp: soar365.org
💡 Find more camps near you: acacamps.org
📧 Questions or comments? Email us: info@soar365.org

Because everyone deserves to make memories around the campfire. 🌲🔥