SOAR’s Success and Why It Matters

We at ARS firmly believe that income – and the process of earning income – is a foundational element of sustainable independence and wellness. Gainful employment for those physically able to work can be directly linked to resiliency.

This is because we believe that “Choices Matter.” What a person does matters. The ability to change one’s circumstances by changing one’s effort or commitment is an important ingredient to the recipe for hope. If you can’t change your circumstances, or if what you do does not matter, what’s the point?

This is why ARS has a team of supportive employment specialists. These dedicated case managers (all of whom are Washington State Peer Certified Counselors and CCAR Recovery Coaches) work with individuals to secure and keep gainful employment. Whether its interview-skill or resume building, job searching, preferred placement, or training, our specialists sole objective is partner with the suffering to secure and keep employment.

But some among us physically cannot work. And the process of securing social security or disability income is, quite literally, the difference between life and death.

ARS is fortunate to offer SOAR Navigation for those in this precarious position. We’ve provided these services for three years after we secured a Washington State Healthcare Authority contract through a competitive grant process. SOAR Navigation is nationally certified case management for individuals navigating the often-complex SSI/SSDI landscape.

Julia Reardon, our SOAR Program Director, is a nationally certified SOAR Navigator. This means she’s completed the national certification course in Colorado, as well as the requisite testing and training. Ms. Reardon also holds a CCAR Certification as a Recovery Professional and Facilitator. She’s a Washington State Certified Peer, as well.

ARS’ success rate for SOAR applications is 100% - consistently outperforming the national averages.

Not only is ARS more successful in securing needed benefits, our SOAR Division also led Washington State in applications submitted. ARS accounted for just over 16% of the total applications submitted from the 83 other SOAR-accredited agencies last quarter.

National funding for SOAR is ending. And regardless of political persuasion (we are a-political), most can admit that SSI/SSDI is needed for some and often too complex for most to navigate. This is why ARS is going to continue to provide SOAR Navigation to the Snohomish County’s vulnerable. ARS will bear this cost because it’s a tangible way we can be near and care for the brokenhearted.

If you need assistance or would like to support our SOAR efforts, give us a call or email.