S.O.A.R.I.N.G. benefit breakfast is April 28

by Devin Weeks Staff Writer
| April 25, 2018 1:00 AM

COEUR d’ALENE — A local nonprofit continues to aim high when it comes to helping at-risk youth.

S.O.A.R.I.N.G. (Special Opportunities Affirm Recognition in Noteworthy Goals) is hosting a benefit breakfast this weekend to support its unique program, which rewards kids with scenic airplane rides for completing six-week aviation and goal-setting courses. The program uses aviation as a metaphor for life as well as an incentive to overcome challenges and achieve life goals. It helps the kids understand that although parts of their lives are out of their control, they do have control over some things.

"We have a high number of positive response rates," said Bob Clark, who serves as the treasurer of S.O.A.R.I.N.G.'s board of directors. "It's made a huge difference for some of these kids."

S.O.A.R.I.N.G. is a volunteer organization that has been changing lives for 25 years.

The program targets youths ages 7-17 who have experienced health, emotional, social, economic or other types of adversity in their lives. Licensed therapists and counselors work with the kids to help set them on the right path. When they complete their goal-setting courses, they are celebrated with a graduation event with friends, family and flight.

"We're looking for kids who are headed for trouble," Clark said. "This is a proactive program."

During the breakfast, people will have the chance to meet S.O.A.R.I.N.G. graduates and their families. Guests will also have an opportunity to win their own private scenic airplane ride.

Raffle tickets for the scenic flights are $5, or five for $20, and can be purchased by calling Clark at 208-277-6811.

The S.O.A.R.I.N.G. benefit will be Saturday, April 28 from 9 a.m. to noon at Le Peep, 1884 W. Bellerive Lane in Riverstone. Attendees will have the option to donate a portion of their meal cost to the program. Funds raised will help cover the course and flight expenses — $500 per child — so the program can remain free for families.

Info: www.soaringyouth.org or www.youtube.com/watch?v=lpYw2VTyLwM