In order to submit SOAR applications in North Carolina, all providers must have completed the in-person two-day Stepping Stones to Recovery training. The training is provided by the North Carolina Coalition to End Homelessness (NCCEH) and is based on SAMHSA’s Stepping Stones to Recovery training curriculum. Trainings are held on a quarterly basis around the state.

Please note that the national SOAR training has developed an online SOAR training. However, the two-day in-person training is required even if an individual has successfully completed the on-line curriculum.

The in-person training provides crucial state specific material, including forms and contact information, and gives details of policies and procedures that need to be followed when submitting SOAR claims. Prior to commencing the on-line curriculum, it is strongly recommended that individuals first contact Emily Carmody, NC SOAR State Lead for North Carolina, at soar@ncceh.org or 919-755-4393 to discuss training needs and expectations. 

Two-Day SOAR Trainings

SOAR’s Stepping Stones to Recovery Training
A Case Manager’s Training Curriculum for Assisting Adults Who Are Homeless with
Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income Applications

Training Highlights:

  • An in-depth, step-by-step explanation of the SSI/SSDI application and disability determination process

  • Strategies for working with homeless persons with serious mental illness and co-occurring disorders – only a fraction of this population receives the benefits to which they are entitled

  • Exercises and worksheets for practical application tools

  • Samples and explanations of SSA and DDS paperwork and necessary reports

Those who wish to attend a SOAR training need to be aware of the time commitment required by SOAR after the training. Completing a SOAR application requires caseworkers to go above and beyond simply filling out applications for SSI/SSDI benefits. In fact, the average SOAR application takes 35-40 hours to complete. 

Those interested in the training must submit an application to ensure that their supervisors are aware of the required time commitment and will support their staff in completing at least one SOAR application within 3 months of the training. NCCEH gives priority to individuals who are currently working directly with individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in North Carolina. 

Application Process:

Please complete the appropriate training application form by clicking on the training you would like to attend on our calendar of events. Please note, completing an application does not guarantee you a spot in the training. Your application will be reviewed and SOAR staff will notify you regarding approval and further details.

Next SOAR Two-Day Training: 

Stay Tuned for the Next SOAR Training

Please email soar@ncceh.org if you are interested in receiving an email once the next training is scheduled.

 

NCCEH holds SOAR Caseworker trainings quarterly around the state. If you are interested in hosting a SOAR caseworker training in your community, please email us for more information.