SOAR
TRAINING DISCLAIMER
Please note: SOAR is not a referral program. While we may recommend agencies that can assist with the application process, applicants are responsible for following each agency’s established intake procedures.
- SOAR trainings are intended to help agencies build internal capacity to support SSI/SSDI applications.
- Agencies are strongly encouraged to incorporate SOAR practices into their existing staff roles and service delivery model.
- We cannot direct your clients to another agency solely because your agency does not currently provide SOAR services.
- Agencies are expected to work within their own internal networks, partnerships, and referral processes to support clients appropriately.
WHAT IS SOAR?
SSI/SSI Outreach, Access, and Recovery (SOAR) is a model for helping people experiencing or at risk of homelessness to apply for Social Security disability benefits. In the state of Illinois, the SOAR process is supported by SHPA’s IL SOAR State Lead Alivia Perteet and trainings provided by 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.
HOW TO ACCESS TRAININGS
Trainings for the SOAR model are done through Parkwyn Training and Consulting, 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 Alivia Perteet for support with SOAR-assisted applications. PTC also offers ongoing training and technical assistance, including regularly scheduled in-person and virtual SOAR training.
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
REGISTRATION LINK
In-person SOAR Plus!
In person SOAR Plus! is an instructor-led, interactive, 2-day training that takes attendees step‑by‑step through the process of completing and submitting SOAR-assisted SSI/SSDI applications. Hands‑on activities, group discussions, and dedicated time for Q&As reinforce key concepts.
Follow-up connection and support bridge the gap between training and implementation, empowering providers to complete SOAR-assisted applications and navigate challenges with confidence!
- Springfield/Southern: March 25-26, 2027
- Chicago: April 27-28, 2027
Virtual SOAR Plus!
Virtual SOAR Plus! is an instructor-led, interactive, 2-day training that takes attendees step‑by‑step through the process of completing and submitting SOAR-assisted SSI/SSDI applications. Hands‑on activities, group discussions, and dedicated time for Q&As reinforce key concepts.
Follow-up connection and support bridge the gap between training and implementation, empowering providers to complete SOAR-assisted applications and navigate challenges with confidence!
- September 23 & 25, 2026: 9a – 4p
- December 3 & 4, 2026: 9a – 4p
- February 10 & 11, 2027: 9a – 4p
- March 17 & 18, 2027: 9a – 4p
- May 11 & 12, 2027: 9a – 4p
- June 21 & 22, 2027: 9a – 4p
OTHER EVENTS
EVENT / DESCRIPTION
DATES / LOCATIONS
APPLICATION LINK
SOAR Refresher Training
This 3-hour training is intended for providers who have completed the SOAR Online Course or attended an Illinois SOAR Plus! Training. Participants will review the core components of the SOAR process, including key SSA forms and processes such as establishing a protective filing date, understanding the SSA Blue Book Listings, and developing a strong Functional Assessment Statement (FAST). The session includes ample time for discussion and Q&A, along with practical strategies for overcoming common barriers in SOAR-assisted applications.
- August 10th: 1p – 4p
- November 10th: 1p – 4p
- February 8th: 9a – 12p
- April 6th: 9a – 4p
Understanding Social Security Disability Benefits Training
This 2-hour session is designed for those that will not be completing SSI/SSDI applications but still need a solid working knowledge of the Social Security Administration’s disability determination process and the SOAR model. This session is ideal for supervisors and others who support or refer to SOAR-trained providers.
- October 5th: 9a – 11a
- January 13th: 9a – 11a
- April 12th: 1p – 3p
Illinois SOAR Provider Support Calls
These one-hour sessions are designed for providers who have completed SOAR training. PTC will begin each call with updates on the SOAR process, along with any new information or resources from the Social Security Administration. The remainder of the session will be open-format and give participants space to ask questions related to completing SOAR-assisted applications.
- August 24th: 1p – 2p
- October 19th: 2p – 3p
- December 7th: 1p – 2p
- February 1st: 11a – 12p
- April 5th: 11a – 12p
- June 7th: 1p – 2p
Register once and attend as many calls as you can!