Pathways to Support: SSI/SSDI Outreach That Works

Have you heard about SOAR?

It stands for SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access and Recovery, and it is a culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, community-based program designed to increase access to Social Security disability benefits. It’s an essential resource for individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness who have behavioral health and/or co-occurring disorders.

SOAR and access to SSI/SSDI benefits can be a key step on the road to recovery by providing a stable source of income for people with disabilities. It works across the lifespan, with diverse populations and within complex systems. It also builds a community infrastructure that supports case workers to better navigate the Social Security disability process.

In this webinar, you will hear from some of the leaders behind SOAR and discover the essential elements for implementing a successful SOAR program.

Kristin Lupfer, M.S.W.

Vice President for Housing and Income Supports

Policy Research Associates, Inc.

Kristin Lupfer, M.S.W., is the Project Director for SAMHSA’s SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access, and Recovery (SOAR) Technical Assistance Center. Ms. Lupfer oversees all aspects of the SOAR TA Center, virtual TA, SOAR Online Courses development, staff supervision, new materials development, and technical assistance to SOAR states on strategic planning, collaborations, funding, sustainability, and implementation.

Abigail Kirkman, M.A.

Assistant Director

SAMHSA SOAR (SSI/SSDI, Outreach, Access, and Recovery) Technical Assistance Center

Abigail Kirkman, M.A. is the Assistant Director of the SAMHSA SOAR (SSI/SSDI, Outreach, Access, and Recovery) Technical Assistance Center and also serves as the SOAR Online Course Coordinator for two comprehensive curricula that train participants in the SOAR model. She works closely with federal partners, statewide representatives, and local communities to coordinate SOAR implementation and sustainability successfully.

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Panelists