SOAR
The following program policy instructions were updated on 12/18/2025:
Program Operations Manual System
SI 00830 TN 277 – Unearned Income
Summary: Policies on developing income treatment of awards and settlements can be complex. In this transmittal, we are making updates to clarify the current policy. The updates include additional details and cross references to related policies and provide examples of common award and settlement arrangements.
WHAT IS SOAR?
SSI/SSI Outreach, Access, and Recovery (SOAR) is a model for helping people experiencing or at risk of homeless to apply for Social Security disability benefits. In the state of Illinois, the SOAR process is supported by SHPA and Parkwyn Training & Consulting.
WHY SOAR?
For individuals with disabling health conditions that impact their ability to work, the income provided by SSI/SSDI can be life changing. However, the SSI/SSDI application process is complex and poses many barriers for those experiencing or at risk of homelessness who have a severe mental illness. SOAR is a model of application assistance that addresses these barriers and has been proven to reduce application processing time and increase approval rates.
WHAT IS PARKWYN TRAINING & CONSULTING?
Parkwyn Training and Consulting was established by Abby Kirkman and Suzy Sodergren (formerly of the SOAR TA Center) to support the SOAR model and timely access to Social Security disability benefits. Our goal is to help states and communities maximize income and advocate for services that support individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
SOAR-trained caseworkers are encouraged to reach out to Abby or Suzy for support with SOAR-assisted applications. PTC also offers ongoing training and technical assistance, including regularly scheduled in-person and virtual SOAR trainings. If you’re interested in becoming SOAR-trained, please contact us and check the SHPA website for upcoming opportunities.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Abby Kirkman: abby@parkwynconsulting.com
Suzy Sodergren: suzy@parkwynconsulting.com
ILLINOIS SOAR EVENTS
SOAR PLUS! TRAININGS
During these 2-day trainings, providers will learn the critical components of the SOAR model and be guided step-by-step through the process of completing and submitting a SOAR-assisted SSI/SSDI applications. Through group discussions and hands-on exercises, trainees will practice completing SSA forms, learn how to effectively describe an applicant’s functional impairments, explore best practices for collaborating with community partners (e.g., SSA and DDS), and problem-solve around real-world challenges. Communities will also select two supplemental topics in advance, ensuring that content is tailored to local needs and priorities.
Who Should Attend?
SOAR Plus! Trainings are intended for providers who will be completing SOAR-assisted SSI/SSDI applications. For those seeking a broader overview of the SSI/SSDI application process, we recommend attending the Understanding Social Security Disability Benefits training.
Application is Required
Participation in each event is limited, and potential attendees must apply (see links below). Please note that applying does not guarantee attendance.
EVENT / DESCRIPTION
DATES / LOCATIONS
APPLICATION LINK
In-person SOAR Plus!
Travel and accommodations are the responsibility of the attendee/agency.
- February 10th – 11th: Champaign
- April 30th – May 1st: Chicago
- June 2nd – 3rd: Peoria
Virtual SOAR Plus!
Via Zoom Platform.
- January 13th – 14th
- March 10th – 11th
- March 31st – April 1st
- May 4th & 6th
OTHER EVENTS
No Registration is required for these events. Please use the acess links at the time of event.
EVENT / DESCRIPTION
DATES / LOCATIONS
APPLICATION LINK
SOAR 101 Webinar
This 1-hour webinar will provide an overview of the SOAR model and how angencies and communities can become involved!
- January 6th: 10a – 11a
- March 3rd: 10a – 11a
- May 19th: 10a – 11a
Understanding Social Security Disability Benefits Training
This 2-hour training is intended for those who are interested in learning the basics of the SSI/SSDI application process. The training will provide an overview of the Social Security Disability programs, SSA’s definition of disability, the application forms, and how to effectively communicate with SSA and DDS. This training is ideal for those who are supporting SSI/SSDI applicants but not completing the full SOAR process.
- February 9th: 1p – 3p
- April 8th: 1p – 3p
Illinois SOAR Provider Support Calls
These hour-long calls will be open to all SOAR-trained providers across the state. These sessions offer a dedicated space to ask questions and receive guidance on completing SOAR-assisted SSI/SSDI applications.
First Monday of each month, 1-2 p.m.
- January 5
- February 2
- March 2
- April 6
- May 4
- June 1