Originally posted on www.postcrescent.com on 03/03/2015.
By Jim Collar
It’s been striking in my two years of covering social services in the Fox Valley to realize our issues and needs aren’t always so easy to notice.
Quite often, it’s because of the great work happening among agencies and volunteers to make sure those needs are well met.
That sense returned in recent weeks while writing about SOAR Fox Cities. I was familiar with the organization. There was still a lot to learn about the depth of their efforts.
SOAR, formerly the Arc Fox Cities, will begin a month long effort Thursday to bring their new name, story and greater awareness of developmental disabilities to our region. They’ll unveil a new logo and branding during their SOAR to the Stars event at Fox Cities Stadium in Grand Chute.
The organization has been with us since the mid 1950s, though “people still don’t know us,” executive director Sonia Barham said.
In that time, they’ve opened the world to those with developmental disabilities, provided advocacy and given support to families.
It’s easy for those of us unaffected by disability to lose sight of their important community role. Their efforts are bright and clear from one perspective.
We see those with developmental disabilities enjoying the community alongside us. They’re welcomed. They’re afforded dignity like never before. SOAR has played a key role.
Take a moment to get familiar with their work by visiting www.arcfoxcities.com. It’s a great time to contribute. A donor within the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region has offered a $7,500 matching grant.
As the organization celebrates, there’s reason for us to do the same. We’re fortunate to have so many working diligently to meet the needs of neighbors.
Jim Collar: 9209931000, ext. 216, or [email protected]; on Twitter @JimCollar
