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. 🌲🔥

College can be a transformative experience — and with the right support, students with disabilities can thrive academically, socially, and personally. In this episode of Discussing Disability, host Nate Wise talks with Chris Parthenos, Associate Director of VCU’s Student Accessibility and Educational Opportunity (SAEO) office, about how universities can foster equity and belonging for students with disabilities.

Chris shares his own journey of living with chronic pain and transitioning to a career in accessibility services. He outlines the resources and accommodations available at VCU and beyond — from assistive technology to dining and residential adjustments — and how students can advocate for themselves in higher education.

They also discuss trends like online learning, assistive tech advances, and the growing recognition of disability as part of campus diversity. Plus, Chris shares inspiring success stories of students who’ve found confidence and success with the right supports.

💡 Learn more about SAEO at VCU: saeo.vcu.edu
💡 Learn more about SOAR365: soar365.org
📧 Questions or comments? Email us: info@soar365.org

Thanks for listening — and remember: everyone deserves access to a fulfilling education!

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) — a time to celebrate the skills, talents, and contributions of workers with disabilities, and to reaffirm the importance of access to good jobs for all. In this episode of Discussing Disability, host Nate Wise talks with two SOAR365 team members whose stories embody the spirit of inclusion and perseverance.

First, Nate chats with Randy Britt, Director of Commercial Grounds, about how SOAR365 provides competitive, meaningful employment opportunities for people with disabilities, how his team supports workers with diverse needs, and why awareness and intentionality are key to fostering inclusive workplaces.

Then, we hear from Ashley, Operations Supervisor for Commercial Grounds, who shares her personal story of overcoming substance use disorder and finding independence, purpose, and growth through her work at SOAR365.

Together, they highlight how employment can transform lives — and why recognizing and supporting workers with disabilities is important year-round.

💡 Learn more about SOAR365 and how to get involved: soar365.org
📧 Questions or comments? Email us: info@soar365.org

Thanks for listening — and join us in celebrating the contributions of workers with disabilities this month and beyond!

What does it mean to see someone like you competing on the world stage? In this inspiring episode of Discussing Disability, host Nate Wise sits down with Hannah Smith, a wheelchair basketball player, disability advocate, and founder of the See It Be It Project.

Hannah shares her personal journey as an athlete and leader, how she became a passionate advocate for adaptive sports through Sportable, and what it was like to receive the Billie Jean King Youth Leadership Award at the 2024 ESPY Awards. The conversation dives into why representation matters — in sports, media, and daily life — and how the Paralympics empower young people with disabilities to dream big.

Hannah also introduces her See It Be It Project, which spotlights stories of people with disabilities living successful, fulfilling lives, giving hope and visibility to others.

Tune in for a thoughtful discussion about sports, advocacy, and the value of being seen — and don’t forget to catch the Paralympic Games this summer!

💡 Learn more about SOAR365: soar365.org
📧 Questions or comments? Email us: info@soar365.org
📷 Follow the See It Be It Project on Instagram: @seeit.beitproject

Thanks for listening — and here’s to cheering on all athletes at the Paralympics!

Volunteers are the heart of so many nonprofits — and at SOAR365, they make life-changing opportunities possible for individuals with disabilities every day. In this episode of Discussing Disability, host Nate Wise sits down with two special guests to talk about the power of volunteering and how anyone can make a difference.

First, Nate talks with Liz Harris, SOAR365’s Manager of Volunteer Engagement, about the vital roles volunteers play — from one-time beautification projects to ongoing, hands-on support in programs. Liz shares how the organization welcomes volunteers of all abilities, provides inclusion training, and helps people overcome hesitation about working in the disability community.

Then, you’ll hear from Hannah Smith, a VCU student and SOAR365 volunteer, about what inspired her to get involved and how the experience has brought her joy, connection, and perspective.

Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or just curious about getting started, this episode offers insights, encouragement, and practical advice to help you find your place and make a meaningful impact.

💡 Learn more about volunteering at SOAR365: soar365.org
📧 Questions or comments? Email us: info@soar365.org

Thanks for listening — and thanks to all the volunteers who make our mission possible!