Embedded Files
Welcome to Soaring Independence!
Soaring Independence is an intellectual and developmental disability agency established in 2015 in Portland, Oregon. Soaring Independence aims to be an organization that supports clients in achieving their personal goals, promoting independence and autonomy while fostering a sense of community and acceptance.
We offer a range of support services, including individualized support focused on personal goal attainment and group support centered on developing social skills and fostering friendships. Our organization provides employment services, home support, and community inclusion support. We facilitate and coordinate various social activities, such as community dances, beach trips, snow and mountain excursions, camping trips, picnics, parades, birthday celebrations, volunteer opportunities, and exploration of novel activities and experiences.
We provide clients with assistance in identifying resources and programs that may include immediate safety support, domestic violence resources, housing assistance, medical aid, food, clothing, and counseling services. We offer employment assistance in partnership with local brokerages, counties, and vocational rehabilitation.
My name is Joan; I am the owner and director of Soaring Independence. My professional background encompasses diverse experience in community engagement, social services, business management, financial services, customer service and analytical support. I possess a strong foundation in management and skill development. I have facilitated training programs in partnership with community organizations. My educational credentials include a bachelor's degree from PSU, supplemented by extensive ongoing professional development. My multifaceted experience enables me to offer expert training to our employees and foster opportunities for personal growth within the industry. At Soaring Independence, we strive to cultivate a culture that encourages advancement and opportunities.
-Testimonials-
"I like how independent they make me feel and that I didn’t think I was capable of. Such as volunteering, they have a discovery program that is really cool. They help with independent goals as well. Such as cooking, shopping, and medical needs."
-Ashly
"Soaring Independence is very nice and they celebrate birthdays, go on trips and they're a very nice company. My care people Kalae, Shelly, Judy and Ariell are very special and very nice to me."
-Charleen
"Hi My name is Tammy I have been with Joan for 5 years she is a the best provider I have ever had she is fun and sweet to be around OK"
-Tammy
Soaring Independence has taught me how to save money, speaking up for myself and go to meet ups and make friends.
"I feel like I have a voice."
"I have friends now."
-Kerry
Soaring Independence has been a lot of fun and I have a lot of good memories. I met my 1st best friend and honorary sister at Soaring (we’ll be friends forever). I also met my boyfriend. Some of my favorite memories are those with Judy. She made me feel safe and we had so much fun together. We both loved going to KFC and she just made everything fun. Soaring Independence has helped me grow in learning how to budget money and be smarter in nutrition.
-Debbie
Soaring Independence has helped me focus on my goals of baking and budgeting. I’ve learned to compare prices. They support me with my bowling, which is a long-time family hobby.
-Elizabeth
"They helped me with cleaning my home and learning how to cook"
" I appreciate all the help from them and I know they care about me and I'm grateful for them"
"I'm very blessed to have soaring independence in my life ... Especially Joan and all my providers Ariell. Kacie. Lisa and Tami"
" I have learned so much. I know how to clean and organize my home and keep it that way. "
" its a great company and I'm glad I get to work with them"
-Tyrone
" I enjoy the whole group."
(Shared with permission from a customer.)
Joan Eastman's name came up through a search for a provider who could provide trauma-informed care, displaying both intense empathy and strong boundaries; a provider who could approach their work with curiosity, patience, and a high level of professionalism. Joan and her team turned out to have these qualities and many more!
Since an initial customer pairing, Joan's agency Soaring Independence has begun working with several other UCP Connections customers. For one customer they have carefully built a relationship of trust in order to fill a role he had been going without, carefully considering his life experiences and past trauma in their approach.
With another customer, we've seen Soaring Independence provide structure and accountability in a ways that's inspired fresh motivation for personal growth. UCP connections continues to be impressed by Joan and her team. The professionalism, the mission-focused supports, and the integrity of their services are so appreciated!
Page updated
Report abuse