In this special National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) episode of Discussing Disability, host Nate Wise sits down with Shane Kanady, Vice President of Workforce Development at SourceAmerica, to talk about the power of meaningful work. Shane shares how SourceAmerica connects federal contracts with nonprofit agencies like SOAR365 through the Ability One Program, creating tens of thousands of job opportunities for people with disabilities nationwide.

Together, they explore what makes disability employment so transformative—for individuals, families, employers, and communities—and discuss national events like the Grassroots Advocacy Conference that give employees a platform to share their stories directly with policymakers. Shane also highlights how technology and inclusion are shaping the future of work, why awareness months like NDEAM matter, and how all of us can help open more doors to opportunity.

In this inspiring episode of Discussing Disability, host Nate Wise talks with Trent McFadden, Assistant Vice President of SOAR365’s Ability One program, and Will Froude, a U.S. Army veteran and small engine mechanic on SOAR365’s Bellwood team. Together, they explore how the Ability One program—powered by a partnership with SourceAmerica—creates meaningful job opportunities for people with disabilities and veterans. Will shares his 20-year military career, the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, and how he found purpose and camaraderie at SOAR365. You’ll also hear about the unique supports and accommodations that help employees succeed, the impact of recognition, and why stories like Will’s matter to funders, policymakers, and the community.

This month on Discussing Disability, host Nate Wise sits down with Dr. Sarah Kranz-Ciment, founder and executive director of Friendship Circle of Virginia, to explore how her organization is building a more inclusive Richmond — one friendship at a time.

Learn how Friendship Circle connects people with and without disabilities through meaningful relationships, creative programs, and community-wide events. Sarah shares how the organization has grown over the last 12 years, the impact of its innovative programs like Friends at Home, Birthday Circle, and the Disability Expo, and how inclusion transforms individuals and communities alike.

We also spotlight Disability Inclusion Day at the Diamond, coming up on June 29 — a Richmond Flying Squirrels game designed to be fully accessible, sensory-friendly, and welcoming for everyone.

Find out how you can attend this free event, support Friendship Circle’s mission, and help create a community where everyone belongs.

💡 Reserve your free tickets for Inclusion Day: inclusiondayrva.com
🌐 Learn more about Friendship Circle of Virginia: friendshipcircleva.org
📧 Comments or questions? Email us: info@soar365.org

Because inclusion benefits everyone — and it starts with a single friendship. ⚾✨