About SOAR
John Willson, MS, LRT/CTRS (Licensed Recreational Therapist/Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist)
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John Willson, MS, LRT/CTRS, is Executive Director for SOAR, the world’s premier adventure program serving youth with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and LD (Learning Disabilities). SOAR’s outdoor adventure-based programs provide academic instruction, experiential education, and life skills development for youth and young adults ages 8-25. SOAR stands for Success-Oriented, Achievements Realized. With a passion for fostering resilience and nurturing strengths in neurodiverse communities, John is a respected advocate among those who serve individuals with learning differences and attention challenges. Learn more at soarnc.org.
BROADCAST BIO
Tune in to meet John Willson, Executive Director for SOAR, the world’s premier ADHD and Learning Difference adventure program. SOAR’s outdoor adventure-based programs provide academic instruction, experiential education, and life skills development for youth and young adults ages 8-25. SOAR stands for Success-Oriented, Achievements Realized. With a passion for fostering resilience and nurturing strengths in neurodiverse communities, John is a respected advocate among those who serve individuals with learning differences and attention challenges. Learn more at soarnc.org. Welcome John. Tell us about how you came to be involved with SOAR and your work with the organization.
IN-DEPTH BIO
John Willson, MS, LRT/CTRS (Licensed Recreational Therapist/Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist) is Executive Director for SOAR, the world’s premier ADHD and Learning Difference adventure program. SOAR’s outdoor adventure-based programs provide academic instruction, experiential education, and life skills development for youth and young adults ages 8-25. SOAR stands for Success-Oriented, Achievements Realized. With a passion for fostering resilience and nurturing strengths in neurodiverse communities, John is a respected advocate among those who serve individuals with learning differences and attention challenges, making him a perfect go-to source for press who seek his counsel, including Outside Magazine, Attitude Magazine, Attention Magazine, and numerous television, podcast, and radio shows.
John has spent over 30 years working in youth programs with an emphasis on individuals diagnosed with learning and attention challenges. He has led hundreds of adventure courses throughout North America, Costa Rica, and Belize. At SOAR he oversees the nonprofit organization’s residential boarding school, adventure summer camp, and GAP (Gateway Adventure Program), a gap-year program serving young adults with ADHD and other learning disabilities.
Along with his responsibilities at SOAR, John is currently on the national board for CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention Deficiency / Hyperactivity Disorder), and is the Past President of the Learning Disabilities Association (LDA) of North Carolina. He actively presents to teachers, parents, and professionals at local, state, and national conferences. In addition, he has been an adjunct professor at Western Carolina University and Mars Hill College teaching Outdoor Recreation, Therapeutic Recreation, and leadership courses. His certifications include Wilderness First Responder, PADI Rescue Diver, Lifeguard, North Carolina Licensed Recreation Therapist, and Nationally Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist.
John received a B.A. in Sociology in 1990 from Texas State University and an M.S. in Outdoor Therapeutic Recreation Administration from Aurora University in 1993.
John is more than a spokesperson for SOAR; he's a driving force behind the organization's mission to empower neurodiverse communities. With a rich background in education and community development, John's journey has been marked by a relentless commitment to fostering resilience and nurturing strengths in individuals with unique abilities.
Having dedicated years to understanding the intricate needs of neurodiverse populations, John brings a depth of expertise to his role. His work extends beyond mere advocacy; it's a passion rooted in tangible impact. Through his tireless efforts, John has become a respected figure in the field, recognized for his ability to bridge the gap between theory and practice.
As a spokesperson for SOAR, John leverages his platform to amplify the voices of those often marginalized and sheds light on the importance of success-oriented growth and achievement within neurodiverse communities. Whether engaging with educators, policymakers, or the broader public, John's message remains clear: Every individual, regardless of their abilities, deserves the opportunity to soar.
John's affiliation with SOAR is not just professional; it's also personal. He is an adult thriving with ADHD and the proud parent of two magnificent, creative, children living with learning and attention challenges. Learn more at soarnc.org.
J.D. Jones
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J.D. Jones is business director for SOAR, the world’s premier ADHD and Learning Difference adventure program. SOAR’s outdoor adventure-based programs provide academic instruction, experiential education, and life skills development for youth and young adults ages 8-25. With a background in finance and strategic planning, J.D. is dedicated to ensuring SOAR’s fiscal health and sustainability to support the organization's mission of empowering neurodiverse communities. As a member of the Investments Committee, J.D. Jones plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of SOAR and maximizing its impact. Learn more at soarnc.org.
BROADCAST BIO
Tune in to meet J.D. Jones, business director for SOAR, the world’s premier ADHD and Learning Difference adventure program. SOAR’s outdoor adventure-based programs provide academic instruction, experiential education, and life skills development for youth and young adults ages 8-25. Learn more at soarnc.org. Join us as we delve into J.D.'s role supporting SOAR's mission of empowering neurodiverse communities. Welcome, J.D. You have a long history with SOAR, starting when you were in high school. Tell us about SOAR and your role in the nonprofit organization.
IN-DEPTH BIO
J.D. Jones is business director for SOAR, the world’s premier ADHD and Learning Difference adventure program offering accredited ADHD Summer Camp Courses, The Academy at SOAR private boarding school, and GAP (Gateway Adventure Program). SOAR’s outdoor adventure-based programs provide academic instruction, experiential education, and life skills development for youth and young adults ages 8-25.
J.D. has a long history with SOAR and has watched the program grow into what it is today. Frequently joining his father on multiple programs since 1993, J.D. joined the SOAR team while in High School as a Wrangler for summer programs in WY and served as a Sea-Doo activity specialist and Rescue Diver in FL. Participating in all of these adventures enabled J.D. to experience and fall in love with almost all of the outdoor activities SOAR has to offer. After receiving his bachelor’s degree from West Point, J.D. served in the U.S. Army for eight years. After service, he began getting his MBA at Colorado State University while simultaneously acting as a consultant for SOAR. J.D. joined the SOAR Board of Directors Investments Committee soon after. Upon graduation from CSU, J.D. joined the SOAR Team as a full-time member at its NC base where he started June 2021. J.D. and his beautiful wife Lucee have a 3-year-old son and are excited about this next great adventure!
J.D. is a pivotal member of the SOAR Board of Directors Investments Committee, bringing a robust background in finance and strategic planning to his role. With a career spanning years of experience in investment management, his expertise is instrumental in steering SOAR towards financial sustainability and growth.
As a strategic thinker and meticulous planner, J.D.'s contributions extend beyond mere financial oversight; he plays a crucial role in shaping SOAR's long-term vision and goals. His commitment to excellence and prudent stewardship ensures that SOAR's resources are maximized to their fullest potential, ultimately driving greater impact in empowering neurodiverse communities.
J.D.'s dedication to SOAR's mission is palpable in every decision he makes. Through his leadership on the Investments Committee, J.D. navigates complex financial landscapes with ease, identifying opportunities for growth and implementing sound investment strategies that support SOAR's initiatives.
Beyond his financial acumen, J.D.'s passion for making a difference is evident in his unwavering commitment to the organization's mission. His strategic guidance and astute financial management not only safeguard SOAR's financial health but also position the organization for long-term success.
In essence, J.D. Jones epitomizes the values of stewardship, integrity, and dedication that define SOAR's ethos. Through his invaluable contributions to the Investments Committee, J.D. ensures that SOAR remains steadfast in its mission to empower and uplift neurodiverse communities, now and in the future. Learn more at soarnc.org.