Southern Oregon Aspire

01/29/2026

When he’s not enjoying country music or cheering on the Oregon Ducks, James is honing his basketball skills for the Special Olympics. Here he is getting some practice shots in before Special Olympics Oregon Special Olympics Oregon-Josephine County practice. 🏀

01/01/2026

Happy New Year from Southern Oregon Aspire! 🎉🥂

As we near the end of 2025, we are full of gratitude for the continued support of our community and for the opportunity to serve our individuals every day, helping them live the life they choose. 2025 was a special year, marking our 50th anniversary, and we look forward to all that 2026 has in store!

12/30/2025

Your generosity keeps essential services within reach.
Give a gift before 2026 👉 https://soaspire.org/forward/

Real change takes more than compassion—it takes resources, accessibility, and dedicated people. Join us in ensuring a more inclusive future.

12/25/2025

Merry Christmas! 🎄

We had a blast celebrating together at our annual Christmas party last week. It’s a day we always look forward to—a wonderful opportunity for our whole team and the individuals we support to come together. ❤️

May your day be filled with laughter and connection.

12/22/2025

When you find your voice, you help others find theirs.

Tracy has been part of Aspire since the beginning. With the right support, he found not only stability but purpose through creativity. The stage became his outlet.

While his journey to the stage was not an easy one, Tracy persevered with the help of a past employee and cinematographer, Josh Kennedy. Together, they made an inspiring short film to pave his path to local theater productions. Where Tracy reminded others that communication goes beyond words—it’s in expression, movement, and connection.

Today, Tracy continues to uplift those around him, proving that meeting needs is just the beginning—thriving is the goal.

Give a gift today 👉 soaspire.org/forward

Your support provides:
🏡 Accessible housing
🦽 Adaptive & mobility equipment
🚐 Accessible transportation
🎒 Supplies that support wellbeing

12/18/2025

Lights, Camera, Barry 🎬

Over a weekend trip in Astoria, Barry visited the Oregon Film Museum and spent time exploring exhibits that connect to his long-standing interest in theater and the performing arts.

While there, he and his housemate Jacob took part in an interactive exhibit that allowed visitors to film their own scenes. Barry chose to recreate a scene from The Goonies, which was filmed in Astoria. He enjoyed having the opportunity to make choices about the setting, equipment, and creative direction, and later shared how excited he was to show the footage to friends and family back home.

12/16/2025

Bobbie’s Trek Forward 🚶‍♀️‍➡️

Bobbie has faced a tough road with her health over the past few years. On a Kroner House trip to Crater Lake, she showed her staff just how far she’s come. What began as a simple restroom stop at Rogue River Gorge turned into an unexpected adventure when Bobbie pointed out a nearby trail and confidently led the group on a short hike, sharing the waterfalls and flowers along the way.

By day’s end, Bobbie had walked 7.5 miles total, something unimaginable just a year ago. As her health improves, so does her confidence and joy. Bobbie’s journey is a powerful reminder that with the right support and encouragement, people don’t just meet goals—they thrive.

Meeting needs is just the beginning—thriving is the goal.
Give a gift today 👉 soaspire.org/forward

Your support provides:
🏡 Accessible housing
🦽 Adaptive & mobility equipment
🚐 Accessible transportation
🎒 Supplies that support wellbeing

12/12/2025

Joe is a huge sports fan and enjoys inviting his friend Vince over to watch games regularly. Recently, he decided to upgrade his personal TV and recliner. After saving up, he treated himself to a new recliner and TV for his room. Now, Joe and Vince are enjoying the new setup. As Joe put it, he’s “living his best life.”

12/11/2025

Jennifer’s Joy of Trying Something New 🚲✨

Jennifer has always loved staying active—walking and hiking—but discovering new hobbies hasn’t always been easy. Having been with Aspire for over a decade, she sometimes has difficulty expressing her interests and desires. It takes patience, encouragement, and trust from staff who know her well to help her explore new experiences.

One afternoon, while staff were helping her housemate get ready for a walk, Jennifer noticed his three-wheeled bike. Curious but hesitant, she quietly said, “Uh, maybe” when asked if she wanted to try. With a little encouragement, she decided to give it a chance—and within moments, she was pedaling down the driveway, her face lit with pure joy.

That first ride gave Jennifer a taste of something new and exciting. With support, she rode up and down the driveway several times, laughing and gaining confidence with each turn. Not only did Jennifer push herself to try something new, this experience also created an opportunity to build friendship and discover common interests with her housemate. This moment is a reminder that joy often begins with one small “yes.” When understanding and opportunity come together, individuals like Jennifer don’t just participate—they thrive.

Meeting needs is just the beginning—thriving is the goal
Give a Gift Today 👉 soaspire.org/forward

Your Generous Gifts Provide:
🏡 Accessible housing
🦽 Adaptive & mobility equipment
🚐 Accessible transportation
🎒 Recreational & personal supplies that support wellbeing

12/05/2025

Time to sign up for Winter sports with Special Olympics Oregon-Josephine County

Click the link below to get registered and to see all of the practice information.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1C5SppG8VJ/