Q: What is SOAR?
A: SOAR is a mission and discipleship program designed to inspire and equip participants to serve Jesus by working alongside local communities and ministries.
Q: Who can participate in SOAR?
A: SOAR is a multi-generational program but the majority of groups at SOAR are youth groups. SOAR is for everyone looking to explore missions in their local region. SOAR is a team-based program so everyone will need to come with a team if you don’t have a team connect with your church to see if they are interested.
Q: How do I prepare my team for SOAR?
A: Preparation includes building relationships within your team, coordinating fundraising, completing criminal record checks for leaders, and organizing logistics like transportation. Establishing a prayer team is also critical for your success.
Q: What is the cost of participating?
A: $350 CAD per participant covers meals, lodging, and program sessions. Travel expenses, personal items, and additional ministry supplies are not included. The funds are considered a donation that helps to cover the costs of SOAR. If the cost is prohibitive please contact the program coordinator.
SOAR EX program costs are $175/person.
Q: How do we fundraise for SOAR?
A: Fundraising can be done individually or as a team. Options include hosting events like pie auctions or connecting with supporters through letters. Encourage your team to pray and reflect on why they are participating.
Q: What should we bring to SOAR?
A: Pack light, including a sleeping bag, pillow, personal items, warm clothing, and a Bible. Avoid excessive electronics or jewelry, and ensure all medications are in original labeled containers.
Q: What does a typical day look like during SOAR?
A: Each day includes team time, ministry work, worship, and daily debriefing. Orientation occurs at the start, followed by ministry partnerships and a final debrief before heading home.
Q: What are the housing arrangements?
A: Participants are housed in group settings, such as church floors. Leaders should ensure everyone is respectful of shared spaces.
Q: How do we handle cross-cultural interactions?
A: SOAR emphasizes cultural sensitivity and understanding. Leaders should model a posture of humility, curiosity, and interdependency when interacting with diverse communities.
Q: How do we debrief effectively?
A: Daily and post-SOAR debriefs are crucial for processing experiences. Use guided questions to help participants reflect on their emotions, learnings, and how they encountered God during the program.
Q: What is expected of us after returning home?
A: Teams should share their experiences with their church, engage in ongoing prayer and reflection, and consider how to continue living missionally. Mentorship and follow-up meetings are also encouraged.
Q: How do we stay connected to the ministries we partnered with?
A: Maintaining healthy relationships with ministry partners is vital. Continue praying for them, and explore ways to support their work long-term.
Q: Who do we contact for more information?
A: Reach out to the SOAR Coordinator for questions or concerns. Contact details are available in your registration materials.
Q: How does SOAR handle emergencies?
A: Each participant must submit emergency contact information and health forms. Leaders are responsible for ensuring all necessary documentation is complete.
Q: What support is available for team leaders?
A: Leaders are provided with resources on mentorship, cultural awareness, and administrative preparation. SOAR staff are also available to guide and support you throughout the program.
There will be a leader lounge open during the rest times at the main host site. This space will be for you to take a break from your group, get a snack, take a nap and debrief and pray with one of the SOAR leaders.