SOAR’s mission is to provide people with disabilities the opportunity to participate in outdoor accessible activities and help provide them with accessible equipment. There are many benefits to accessing the outdoors: 1) mental, physical & emotional health and wellness, 2) spending quality time with family & friend, and 3) most importantly to view and enjoy all of God’s creation.

Our Story

It is rare that someone can take a “tragedy” as an opportunity to change their life and help others. That is exactly what Brian P. Swift did. In 1979 on the day after Christmas, Brian Swift, at the age of 17, broke his neck playing football leaving him a C5/6 quadriplegic, with permanent paralysis from his chest down. In the process of his rehabilitation, he became aware of the importance of recreation for rehabilitation, not only to improve mobility, but to improve mental well-being. Brian saw this event in his life as a challenge and an opportunity to assist others. This life-changing event developed into his personal crusade.

Brian went back to school and received his bachelor’s degree from Saint Xavier University and his Juris Doctor degree from DePaul College of Law. Brian Swift overcame the challenge of his disability utilizing sports for himself and others by coaching football and basketball for over twenty years. He also continued to hunt & fish