About SOAR

SOAR is dedicated to creating accessible, outdoor, recreational opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities, like:

  • Camping

  • Fishing

  • Hiking

  • Hunting

  • Four-Wheeling

  • Biking

By supporting SOAR, you can help provide meaningful outdoor experiences for children and adults with disabilities, giving them the opportunity to explore and enjoy nature.

In 1979, at age 17, Brian P. Swift became a C5/6 quadriplegic after a football injury. Through rehabilitation, he discovered the critical role outdoor recreation plays in both physical and mental well-being. Rather than letting his injury define him, Brian turned it into a mission to help others.

He earned degrees from Saint Xavier University and DePaul College of Law, coached football and basketball for over 20 years, and continued his love for outdoor activities like hunting and fishing. As a father, husband, and advocate, Brian developed his personal philosophy: Commitment, Integrity, and Attitude (CIA).

SOAR exists to empower people with disabilities to live active, fulfilling lives. With community support, we aim to make the outdoors accessible to all—because everyone deserves the chance to explore, play, and connect with nature.

Meet Our Team

  • Brian P. Swift

    FOUNDER & PRESIDENT

    After 20 years in the corporate world, Brian developed a dream to help and inspire others with disabilities to get outdoors and exercise more.

  • Monica Swift

    DIRECTOR

    While teaching full time, a mother of three, and acting as caregiver to her husband, she finds time to act as director of SOAR and support Brian’s dream.

  • Joe Sadlier

    VICE PRESIDENT

    After graduating from college, Joe started his own plastic lumber company that ran successfully for many years. He then sold his company, purchased a farm and became an eco-farmer.

  • Maribeth O'Connell

    BOARD MEMBER

  • Samantha Tunney

    DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

  • Mike Conroy

    DIRECTOR OF VETERAN AFFAIRS

Our Partners