High Adventure Summer Camps for Youth with Learning & Attention Issues
soarnc.org
SOAR is an accredited summer camp, boarding school, and gap year program serving youth & young adults with learning & attention issues in locations across the country. Created in 1977 by an adult with learning disabilities, SOAR provides fun and successful experiences so that participants may gain a greater awareness of their own strengths and build self-confidence. Campers, students, and gappers are challenged in a variety of adventure activities and stretched beyond their comfort zone with lessons learned from these experiences related back to other aspects of their lives. Through these incredible outdoor adventures, participants make new friendships, build self-confidence, and develop life skills. Join us on the journey to success!
LOCATIONS
North Carolina Wyoming Florida California New York Belize Costa Rica Caribbean SOAR is an authorized permittee of the National Park Service & the National Forest Service.
SOARNC.ORG | 828-456-3435
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in its programs. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights
ADVENTURE
Outdoor adventure gives campers an opportunity to discover strengths in a new environment, away from distractions. After each activity, campers reflect on the challenges and successes they’ve experienced and how each activity relates back to their life at school and at home. Outdoor adventure challenges campers to step out of their comfort zone and push past their self-perceived limits. This creates multiple opportunities for campers to experience success in areas they never have before, building their confidence and creating excitement for the great outdoors.
FEATURED in OUTSIDE MAGAZINE
“ADHD is Fuel for Adventure” Read the full article at outsideonline.com/adhd SOARNC.ORG | 828-456-3435
BELONGING
SOAR offers a supportive environment where campers can be themselves and be celebrated for their strengths. We also strive to create an encouraging environment among campers. Rather than competing with one another, campers set personal goals and are supported by our staff & their team to reach these goals. Camp offers a fresh start for many campers to meet new people and develop new friendships. With a 1:4 staff to camper ratio, we are able to guide campers through social interactions as they get to know one another and begin to form friendships.
ACTIVITIES Archery Backpacking Canoeing Caving Fishing High Ropes Course Horseback Riding Kayaking Llama Trekking Mountain Biking Riflery Rock Climbing Sailing SCUBA Diving Snorkeling Surfing Whitewater Rafting Search Courses at soarnc.org/soar-courses SOARNC.ORG | 828-456-3435
*Activities vary by course & location.
CONFIDENCE
Campers begin to see themselves differently as they face fears, overcome challenges, and experience success! Through each activity, campers are pushed beyond their comfort zone with support and encouragement. By giving each camper daily roles & responsibilities, their leadership skills begin to flourish resulting in increased self-confidence. Spending time away from home also gives campers the opportunity to thrive independently and develop self-reliance. Self-confidence and independence can have a big impact on campers’ attitudes at home, school, and in peer relationships.
TESTIMONIALS “SOAR really understands the challenges (social, emotional and learning) that our kids face and these challenges are dealt with head-on in a nurturing and safe environment that promotes confidence and success.”
“I truly believe that his communication skills have increased thanks to you all. No doubt he feels much more self confident."
“We are so grateful for your program. Our child came back a grounded more responsible young lady. She proved to herself she could do it! We are so proud of her!”
SOARNC.ORG | 828-456-3435
FUN
Our goal each summer is for every camper to have a fun summer camp experience, just like any other camp! So many of the experiences that allow campers to grow and learn are wrapped up in fun activities such as rock climbing, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, kayaking, surfing, snorkeling, and more! At SOAR, campers get to experience the great outdoors first hand. Instead of remaining at one site throughout camp, campers are on the move, traveling to amazing locations for new and exciting adventures. Along the way, our staff strive to keep campers engaged and active, facilitating games and discussion to keep spirits high.
OTHER SOAR PROGRAMS
The Academy at SOAR is an accredited boarding school for grades 7-12 that offers a unique combination of academics, adventure, and life skills development to help prepare students academically, socially, and emotionally for adulthood. Learn more at soarnc.org/academy
The Gap Year at SOAR is for young adults ages 18-24 who have graduated from high school but are unsure of the next step toward their future. The Gap Year at SOAR provides a structured environment for young adults to explore areas of interest & strengths as they take a step back to consider their future and the steps to get there.
SOARNC.ORG | 828-456-3435
Learn more at soarnc.org/gapyear
SUCCESS
For campers who face challenges at school, difficulty navigating relationships, have poor self-confidence, or who seem to be overwhelmed by obstacles, SOAR is a true breath of fresh air. We focus on the unique strengths and abilities of each camper and find ways to help them further develop these areas. By providing outdoor activities that build self-confidence and self-reliance, campers begin to realize their incredible strengths. With support and encouragement, campers are pushed past their self-perceived limits to experience success!
TESTIMONIALS “He gained so much confidence and was made to feel important and strong. He rates it as one of the top things he has ever done in his life - and we agree!”
“Everyone at SOAR does an amazing job helping the kids find their voice, gain confidence and learn valuable life skills all while having fun and experiencing some really cool activities. We can’t say enough about this remarkable program.”
“SOAR is the first place we have found that strives to challenge kids with ADHD & LD to reach their potential in a safe, nurturing and exciting environment."
SOARNC.ORG | 828-456-3435
LIFE SKILLS
Life skills development is incorporated into each day at camp. From organization to problem solving, campers are given opportunities to practice these skills through roles & responsibilities each day. We are always there to support and mentor campers in these areas by utilizing teachable moments and reminding campers of their responsibilities. Campers are also expected to keep their belongings clean & organized, participate in daily hygiene routines, and work toward a specific personal-growth goal.
APPLY TO CAMP ENROLLMENT:
Visit soarnc.org to submit your camper application. All applications are reviewed by Admissions. A non-refundable deposit will be charged upon acceptance. Please review our Financial Policies prior to submitting your application. Once your camper is enrolled, you will receive a confirmation email with instructions to complete required paperwork prior to camp.
MULTIPLE COURSES:
Summer courses may be combined for a longer adventure. For an additional fee, campers can stay between courses at either our Balsam Base in North Carolina or Eagle View Ranch in Wyoming.
FINANCIAL AID:
Partial scholarships are available for our summer courses. Applicants are encouraged to apply for financial aid early, as this fund is limited. Contact us at 828-456-3435 to learn more.
SOARNC.ORG | 828-456-3435 SOARNC.ORG | 828-456-3435
soarnc.org
soar po box 388 balsam, nc 28707 (p) 828-456-3435 (f) 801-820-3050
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BALSAM, NC PERMIT #1
Visit soarnc.org for dates & rates and to apply for camp! Connect with us @soaradhd