Transforming Lives of Special Needs Families in Kansas City & Beyond
Twenty-eight percent of Americans have special needs. SOAR exists to transform lives by providing exceptional care, respite, and community support for special needs families.
Every special needs family wonders:
Will my child be able to provide for themselves?
Who will care for my child when I'm gone?
Who will care for me as a parent or caregiver?
SOAR is the answer and we're here to help answer these questions together.
The SOAR Difference: A Holistic Approach
What makes SOAR unique is that every program addresses all three questions simultaneously:
Building Community - Through 2,500+ volunteers and 800+ churches, SOAR creates a web of relationships that support both individuals with special needs and their caregivers.
"Just Be A Friend" Philosophy - SOAR's core value emphasizes authentic relationships over specialized training, creating genuine connections that last.
Radical Inclusion - By welcoming everyone regardless of diagnosis severity and providing full medical and behavioral support teams, SOAR ensures no family is turned away.
Faith Community Integration - SOAR's church consulting work ensures that families can participate fully in their faith communities, addressing spiritual needs alongside practical ones.
Mobile Capability - With the SOAR Truck and 24-foot trailer, SOAR can bring programs to families wherever they are, expanding reach and access.
❊ Our Programs
How SOAR Supports You
For Families
Respite Care
Monthly SOARly Needed R&R events give families a much-needed break
Summer Day Camp
The nation's largest disability day camp (ages 3+)
Holiday Events
Inclusive sensory friendly events for the whole family
Social Clubs
Community building for teens and adults
For Organizations
Free Consultation
Start or strengthen your disability ministry
Organization/Employee Training
Equip your organization & staff with best-practices for individuals with disabilities
Sensory Room Design Services
Created for your unique needs and budget
Ministry Resources
Training, coaching, and partnership opportunities
❊ Our Impact
By the Numbers
800+ Churches
assisted worldwide
Nation’s largest
disability day camp
26
Countries
served globally
1500+
Families
assisted annually
"Be A Friend" - Our Philosophy
At SOAR, we believe everyone deserves a place where they belong. Our culture is simple: "Be A Friend." We're dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities find the very best version of themselves.
Founded by Dr. Stephen "Doc" Hunsley, a former pediatrician and parent of a child with special needs, SOAR has grown from serving 3 families to supporting hundreds of families across Kansas City and beyond.
Our Vision for the Future:
48-hour weekend respite programs
Adult job training and employment opportunities
Housing and assisted living for adults with special needs
Expanding to serve 1000+ churches nationwide
❊ Testimonials
Stories From Our Community
Our son has been participating in SOAR activities for the past decade. There must be hundreds of volunteers who give their time to put on a magical camp for children and adults with disabilities that just want to be included. We are forever grateful.
— Carrie W., SOAR Parent
SOAR does amazing work for so many families. A wonderful fashion show where the models (all special needs) have an amazing time and you see the joy it gives everyone. A great local non-profit deserving of our time and money.
— Judy L., Donor
SOAR is an invaluable connection for families with children or adults living with special needs. The intentional focus on individual needs is such a blessing.
— Holly P., Parent
Upcoming Events
Volunteer
No experience necessary. Simply "Be A Friend."
Donate
Help us serve more families with disabilities.
Pray
Join us daily at 5:10pm to pray for SOAR families.
PSSSSSSSSSST
If you’ve made it this far, you deserve a treat! We want to share our best kept secret with you… US!
If you’ve had a great experience with SOAR, please leave us a review on Google to get the secret out.