SOAR Program

For 18-22 year olds with Asperger’s Syndrome, anxiety disorders, and other related challenges

 

Program Overview

 

NEC offers three unique programs for secondary and post-secondary students through age 22 with moderate intellectual, mental health, and learning disabilities.


Program Description

SOAR is a specially designed transition program for students with Asperger’s Syndrome, anxiety disorders and related diagnoses.

The goal of the program is to assist students in transitioning to college and the world of work and to support students in becoming confident contributing members of society.

The SOAR program is located on the campus of Salem State University. Students will experience the benefits of campus life while learning life and career skills such as travel training, organization, study skills, and social functioning.

The program is geared toward students through age 22 motivated to prepare for the next level of independence on a college campus or in the work force.

Program Components

  • Self advocacy Curriculum (self-awareness, self-disclosure

  • Time Management

  • Physical education (self-calming, self-regulation, yoga, wellness activities)

  • Study skills (test preparation)

  • Class etiquette (how to speak with different levels/ relationships, etc.)

  • Executive functioning supports/skills training

  • Negotiating (Compromising skills teaching brain function, language)

  • Weekly Community Trips

  • Transportation options (Travel training, Rideshare options)

  • Leisure activities

  • Social Skills (dating, roommates, hygiene)

  • Vocational training through paid and unpaid community based internships

  • Use of a variety of technology options

 

Resources

 

Click Here to view student internship photos click here

Click Here To view community trip photos

Click Here To view around the campus photos

 

CONTACTS & REFERRALS

 

For more information about SOAR or to make a referral, we invite you to contact:

Ellen Heald
Program Director

SOAR Program
Salem State University Enterprise Cntr.
121 Loring Avenue
Salem, MA 01970

Phone:
978-740-5913

Email:
eheald@nsedu.org

 

STAFFING