How So Kids SOAR & Nicole Barnhart Are Empowering Youth with Disabilities

Nicole Barnhart

Nicole Barnhart was born with a rare heart defect and had to undergo open-heart surgery at just 9-days-old. She spent her childhood in and out of hospitals, undergoing multiple surgeries and procedures. Despite her challenges, Nicole was a determined and resilient child. She loved sports and played basketball, volleyball, and softball.

Nicole's passion for sports led her to pursue a career in coaching. She is now the head coach of the women's basketball team at the University of Oregon. Nicole is also a motivational speaker and author. She shares her story to inspire others to overcome their challenges and achieve their dreams.

So Kids SOAR

So Kids SOAR is a non-profit organization that provides sports and recreational opportunities for children with disabilities. The organization was founded in 2005 by Nicole Barnhart and her husband, David. So Kids SOAR offers a variety of programs, including:

• Adaptive sports
• Recreational activities
• Educational programs
• Family support

So Kids SOAR is committed to providing children with disabilities with the opportunity to participate in sports and recreation. The organization believes that sports can help children develop physically, socially, and emotionally.

The Benefits of Sports for Children with Disabilities

There are many benefits to sports for children with disabilities. These benefits include:

• Improved physical health
• Increased social interaction
• Enhanced self-esteem
• Greater independence
• Improved quality of life

Sports can help children with disabilities develop physically. They can improve their strength, coordination, and balance. Sports can also help children with disabilities develop socially. They can learn how to work together as a team and how to interact with other children.

Sports can also help children with disabilities develop emotionally. They can learn how to overcome challenges and how to persevere. Sports can also help children with disabilities develop a greater sense of self-esteem. They can learn that they are capable of achieving anything they set their minds to.

How to Get Involved with So Kids SOAR

There are many ways to get involved with So Kids SOAR. You can:

• Donate money
• Volunteer your time
• Spread the word about the organization
• Attend events
• Become a sponsor

So Kids SOAR is a great organization that is making a difference in the lives of children with disabilities. You can help the organization continue its important work by getting involved.

Conclusion

Nicole Barnhart and So Kids SOAR are both inspiring examples of how people can overcome challenges and make a difference in the world. Nicole's story is a reminder that anything is possible if you set your mind to it. So Kids SOAR is a reminder that we can all make a difference in the lives of others, no matter how big or small.