Outdoor recreation and leisure activities are important for all people, yet individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities often have unique challenges.

Specialized Outdoor Adaptive Recreation (SOAR) is a project that creates recreational opportunities for people with disabilities.  With modified equipment, the residents at J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center have the opportunity to take part in activities such as water skiing, water tubing, pontoon rides, Jet Ski rides, and snow skiing.  The SOAR program has been serving residents of all abilities since 1999.  

A NONPROFIT FOUNDATION SUPPORTING THE RESIDENTS & PROGRAMS OF THE J. IVERSON RIDDLE DEVELOPMENTAL CENTER

Recent Projects

Assure the Future

Project Spotlight:  SOAR Program

Leadership

Board of Directors​

Jim Richardson, Chair

Waits Gordon, Secretary/Treasurer

Devonna Ijames

Kathy Johnson

Steve Purcell

Marsha Riddle

Michelle Settlemyre

Beth Walker

Rod Willcox

Go Baby Go
The Burke Women's Fund provided seed money for the Family, Infant and Preschool Program to start the first Go Baby Go chapter in North Carolina.

Volunteens
The Huffman-Cornwell Foundation awarded $1,500 for the 2019 Volunteen Program, a summer volunteer program for local area teens to engage with center residents. 

Americorps
The Mull Foundation funded training for the 8-10 Americorps members who will work directly with residents for 11 months and earn scholarships.  

The Labyrinth at the Chapel​​

Grace Episcopal Church funded the completion of the labyrinth at the Chapel.

Trips 
Trips to Carolina Panthers games, the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, a Backstreet Boys concert and even a week at a cabin in the mountains were all made possible thanks to the Assure the Future Board of Directors Discretionary Fund.