Building Careers Without Limits: Inside DBVI’s Work Across Virginia

Building Careers Without Limits: Inside DBVI’s Work Across Virginia

In the April 2026 episode of Discussing Disability, host Nate Wise sits down with Cindy Roberts, Director of Business and Corporate Initiatives at the Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired (DBVI), to explore how the organization is empowering individuals who are blind, vision impaired, or deaf-blind to achieve independence and meaningful careers. Cindy shares an inside look at DBVI’s wide-reaching services—from residential training and assistive technology to employment programs and entrepreneurial opportunities across Virginia. The conversation highlights an innovative new Career Skills Lab made possible through a partnership with CVS Health and Aetna Better Health of Virginia, offering hands-on training, certifications, and real-world work experience. The episode also dives into the power of partnerships, including DBVI’s collaboration with SOAR365, and how a “dual customer approach” helps connect job seekers with employers to create lasting, successful employment outcomes. Listeners will hear a powerful success story and gain practical advice on how businesses—and individuals—can play a role in building more inclusive workplaces and communities. Whether you’re an employer, advocate, or community member, this episode offers insight into how opportunity, support, and collaboration can unlock potential and change lives.

Bonus Episode: All Things SOAR365 on Richmond Perspectives (Mix 98.1 FM)

In this bonus episode of Discussing Disability, we’re sharing Nate Wise’s recent appearance on the Richmond Perspectives community program on 98.1 FM, which aired on March 8. Nate, Communications & PR Manager at SOAR365, joins host Rebecca Wilde to talk about the organization’s mission to create life-fulfilling opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The conversation covers SOAR365’s wide range of programs—from pediatric therapy and adult day support to supported employment and volunteer opportunities—along with a preview of the 2026 summer camp season at Camp Baker in Chesterfield County. Learn how SOAR365 supports individuals with disabilities and their families throughout the Richmond region, why inclusive spaces like Park365 matter, and how you can get involved through volunteering, donations, or summer camp. Originally aired March 8 on Mix 98.1 FM.

A Decade of Impact and What’s Next: John Walker on 10 Years of Leadership at SOAR365

On this episode of Discussing Disability, we sit down with John Walker, President and CEO of SOAR365, to reflect on a milestone moment—his 10th year leading the organization—and to look ahead to what 2026 has in store. John shares how his journey from the for-profit world to nonprofit leadership became the most meaningful chapter of his career, and how a clear vision helped guide SOAR365 through a decade of growth, innovation, and expanded impact. From serving more individuals with disabilities than ever before to fostering a workplace culture recognized as one of the best in Greater Richmond, this conversation highlights the people, mission moments, and values that define SOAR365. We also explore the role of PARK365 as a community symbol of inclusion, the challenges facing disability services today, and how SOAR365 is preparing for a future rooted in sustainability, partnership, and opportunity. Whether you’re a family member, staff member, donor, or community supporter, this episode offers a thoughtful look back—and an inspiring look forward—at what it means to build a more inclusive, opportunity-rich future.

How SourceAmerica and the Ability One Program Empower People with Disabilities to Thrive at Work

In this special National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) episode of Discussing Disability, host Nate Wise sits down with Shane Kanady, Vice President of Workforce Development at SourceAmerica, to talk about the power of meaningful work. Shane shares how SourceAmerica connects federal contracts with nonprofit agencies like SOAR365 through the Ability One Program, creating tens of thousands of job opportunities for people with disabilities nationwide. Together, they explore what makes disability employment so transformative—for individuals, families, employers, and communities—and discuss national events like the Grassroots Advocacy Conference that give employees a platform to share their stories directly with policymakers. Shane also highlights how technology and inclusion are shaping the future of work, why awareness months like NDEAM matter, and how all of us can help open more doors to opportunity.

A Veteran’s Journey with SOAR365 and the Ability One Program

In this inspiring episode of Discussing Disability, host Nate Wise talks with Trent McFadden, Assistant Vice President of SOAR365’s Ability One program, and Will Froude, a U.S. Army veteran and small engine mechanic on SOAR365’s Bellwood team. Together, they explore how the Ability One program—powered by a partnership with SourceAmerica—creates meaningful job opportunities for people with disabilities and veterans. Will shares his 20-year military career, the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, and how he found purpose and camaraderie at SOAR365. You’ll also hear about the unique supports and accommodations that help employees succeed, the impact of recognition, and why stories like Will’s matter to funders, policymakers, and the community.