Chapter 3 Soar is Celebrating Greatness in Young People all across Ireland
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Soar is an incubator for young people to safely break the rules that are limiting and which do not permit personal expansion and meaning. Soar helps young people break down these barriers because the world they’ve reached their teenage years in may not be big enough to hold their dreams. We exist to ensure the latent potential of young people is not lost. 2
CEO Letter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 04 Meet our Operations Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06 Meet our Facilitators in Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 08 The F.I.T’s Journey so far. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Soar’s Culture. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Our Programs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Our 10 Step Workshop Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 What Teachers Say about Soar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 What Young People are Talking About. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 What Young People say About our Workshops. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Why it Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Child Protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Our Community Programs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Meet the Youth Crew. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Parent’s Letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Letter from our Board. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Highlights of 2015. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Epic events of 2015. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Training and Development. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Our Corporate Partners. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Research and Impact. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Our 2015 Objectives. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Our vision for 2016. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Financial Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Thank You. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
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...It was a year where we reconnected with the calling we first heard and once again put absolute faith in young people to be the sculptors of this movement... 4
It felt like we grew up as an organisation over the last 12 months. Building a youth movement can be interesting. We are all adults for the most part, and as things get bigger, which they did for Soar in 2015, more people get involved. While this is essential these people may not really ‘get’ exactly why the movement started in the first place. The other thing about an organisation growing up is that it becomes more structured. This again is vital, but with structure comes a move away from loose, maverick, fearless energy, the kind that ignites the first supporters to believe in a concept long before any young person has experienced a workshop. This was a year we remembered that young people can and will shape and lead Soar. It was a year where we re-connected with the calling we first heard and once again, committed to putting absolute faith in young people to be the sculptors of this movement.
Soar creates environments where young people are centre stage and get to understand their influences and decide what they want their futures to look like. These environments do not exist in our society today. Young people are yearning to connect to themselves and each other but are doing so online, in the corners of fields drinking cans and on streets all over Ireland. We, the elders of our society are just not part of these conversations because young people won’t tell us about their lives. They believe it will make us uncomfortable and we will judge them so they hide their worlds away from us. This is one of the chief reasons Soar programs can be challenging for adults. We have found this many times over but we will always serve young people’s needs before adult sensibilities. This takes great courage at times. It is the encouragement of young people that keeps us passionate to champion youth needs. In the end, Soar is about creating environments that normalise human struggle and celebrate the ability of the human spirit to take these struggles and perform alchemy where dreams are realised and potential is unlocked. Many adults are confronted by the work of Soar. This is natural and right. At times, when I hear about the lives young people are living I too am confronted and at 34, I am old enough to be their Dad! But the thing is, we must look beyond the discomfort and create a space where they can be truly authentic and not have to carry in silence their private worries, fears, concerns or feel ashamed of their stories or challenges. They can celebrate these in a way
that frees them up to live lives true to themselves and not in a way others expect of them. We must find within ourselves the courage necessary to meet young people where they are at rather than where we’d like them to be out of our own discomfort. It is difficult to be a teenager in this world. Will we make it easier by believing in their resilience and their ability to thrive? Will we believe in them when they don’t believe in themselves? Will we be willing to face our own fears to help them overcome theirs? Are we open to letting young people teach us what we may have forgotten about life and about ourselves? Will we allow them to guide us back to ourselves? If we are not willing to take on this challenge many of our young people will continue to find escape from their pain in drugs, drink, porn, self-harm, suicide, and hopelessness. However, if we do rise to the task of going on this journey with our young people we will create a society of empowered, empathetic and passionate young people that will one day run our corporations and schools, lead our governments and social services and become mothers and fathers to children of their own. What a beautiful future to aspire to. Thank you for continuing to believe that together, we can create something that will change the course of history. Tony Griffin Co-Founder and CEO 5
Co-Founder & CEO Operations | Relationships | Finance
Primary School Programs | Communications | Events
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Our small but agile Operations Team work hard to keep the Soar engine running smoothly throughout the year. They are madly passionate about the management of the leadership, finance and funding, development, research, child protection, communications and logistics of Soar.
Co-Founder & Programs
Research | Finance | Logistics Head of Child Protection & Well-being
Head Heart Breaker
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Facilitator in Training
Facilitator in Training
Facilitator in Training
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Our F.I.T (Facilitators in Training) team are the heartbeat and driving force behind all Soar workshops. They are out on the road daily meeting thousands of young people and igniting them with their humour, attitudes and stories from their own personal journeys.
Facilitator in Training
Facilitator in Training
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An Insight into the journey the Soar Facilitators in Training (F.I.Ts) went on in 2015.
Each month in 2015 presented new and exciting challenges for the facilitators in Training (F.I.Ts). No day working with The Soar Foundation is the same, but one thing is for certain, we are constantly learning and growing in our roles.
Mentorship The year began with each F.I.T being paired up with their own personal mentor. The idea behind this was to give the facilitators a form of support and guidance in their lives. Each mentor was picked based on their passion for Soar’s work and their own professional and life experience. Here are the six mentors who are generously lending their knowledge and expertise for the benefit of the F.I.T’s development. Siobhan Earley Player Development and Marketing Manager at the GPA Susan Dargan Executive Vice President and Head of State Street Global Services in Ireland Cliona Diggins Director at Psyched and Soar board member Ian Kingston Director at Essential Training David Lane Managing Director at Ecclesiastical Insurance, Ireland Tony Garry Recently retired CEO at The Davy Group
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F.I.Ts begin running workshops independently 2015 really saw us coming into our own in school workshops. The hours spent in training rooms were reflected in the growth of our facilitation skills week by week. As our knowledge and skill levels grew so too did our confidence. In January, under the guidance of Co-Founders Tony and Karl, the F.I.Ts began running workshops independently. This was a pivotal moment in Soar’s growth, as previously all workshops had been delivered by Tony and Karl. With more hands on deck, Soar could run more workshops and therefore, reach more young people around Ireland. The more comfortable we became in delivering the workshop content, the more we brought our own personalities and unique flavour to our roles; our own unique way of saying things, our individual ways of interacting and connecting with teenagers and the co-facilitators in workshops.
Training and Development It was a fruitful year in light of training and development. Workshops were created both inside and outside of Soar spaces and personal development played a central role. In August 2015, Tom Harkin, a dear friend of Soar and a highly experienced Facilitation Trainer, spent two
months working with the F.I.Ts and the wider team. Tom generously shared with us his knowledge of facilitation and the human condition. We put a microscope to our own vulnerabilities, challenged our belief systems, ideas of self-worth and things that block us from fulfilling our full potential. To inspire teenagers to embrace their own life’s journey, we must embark on one of our own. This rollercoaster was overwhelming at times but through these training settings, we grew to understand each other more intimately and a strong sense of trust and unity was cultivated. When supporting and connecting with many types of teenagers, it is important to expose ourselves to a variety of trainings, not only facilitation. We attended a safeTALK course educating us on the subject of suicide prevention, an equality workshop gave us a fascinating insight into disabilities and a diversity workshop allowed us to explore gender and cultural diversity. In late summer we were lucky enough to experience a week long acting course with New York based acting coach Lucille Rivin. This helped us to push our comfort zones, expose our vulnerabilities and tap in to a range of human emotions. In November, a mindfulness course was also made available to us to practice the art of being present in both our personal and professional lives.
Transitioning from parttime to full-time As the school term finished in May, we took on some new roles for the summer months. Various projects
were delegated depending on each facilitator’s strengths and interests. A greater understanding was gained by the F.I.Ts into what needs to happen in order to keep this organisation humming on a daily basis. From working in the office over the summer months, there stemmed a real sense of family and cohesion with the team as a whole going back into schools in September. As the summer drew to a close it was time to get back into the schools again. Trojan work on the funding side of the organisation allowed Soar to continue to employ the F.I.Ts as full-time employees. Aside from our two workshops per week, we now contribute two days a week to the operations side of the organisation and one day to Learning and Development. Each of us adopt projects which are most suitable to our skill sets and interests, such as operations, marketing, child welfare, administration, event planning, scheduling and well-being.
Looking back at the year In 2015, we laughed, we cried, we grew together and we were there to support each other at every step of the way along the journey. Whilst great strides were made in 2015, we welcome what 2016 has to offer. Our jobs may be challenging at times, but having the opportunity to visit many corners of the country to help empower young people‌we consider ourselves to be very fortunate. Ronan Conway Facilitator in Training 13
This past year with Soar has been more challenging
than I could ever have imagined. Every school I go to, I meet young people that shock me with their wisdom, and because of them I am a much bigger person than the one who started this journey. I am very grateful. Clodagh Facilitator in Training
A letter from Diarmuid I took a step back from my Soar journey in February 2015. I was a facilitator in training, going out to schools at the coalface of the Soar experience, learning my trade. I acknowledged in myself a desire to pursue the work at almost all costs, but very much in keeping with the Soar philosophy, I was also forced to acknowledge my own shortcomings, a deep seated dis-ease that has consumed much of my life for the last eight years. Standing in front of sixty young people that are looking for answers, hoping to be noticed, begging to be listened to, their genius to be understood, is no place for someone with compromised energy levels. Despite what I can only hope is my value to Soar, a value they have mirrored every step of the way, I have taken a step back to go in for my own self first, in order to build and strengthen, thus creating the ideal conditions in myself to carry on Soar work in those beautiful young people’s lives. Soar also represents a career for me I hope, so stepping back was a big decision to make.
I’ve watched the organiSation grow from strength to strength, observed the shifts from something rooted in theory and boundless enthusiasm, to something else, something just more rooted. Jealousy and the fear of missing out have reared their heads. Shame usually not far behind for even entertaining such thoughts towards an organisation brimming with what are fast becoming family. They may even notice it, but they don’t judge it. It’s met with a kindness and openness that says ‘That’s okay. That’s part of learning. There’s no need for shame. Wear it and work through it and come out the other side of it stronger for the experience. And then share it if you want.’ Soar will still be meeting the kids when I return in March. And next March. And the March after that. Because a march it is. Diarmuid Lyng
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This year has been a real maturing process for us and has positioned us well in defining a solid foundation on which we build our cultural identity.
With Babs, our Head of Child Protection and Well-being (and her sidekick dog, Samson) joining the team early in the year, it enabled us to really put our own internal framework in place to create the kind of work environment that our team can thrive in and where visitors can feel invigorated and inspired. The process of bringing our Youth Crew on board was also a huge step for us. It was inspiring to witness this group of incredible young people grow and contribute to the essential energy of our movement. This has been a defining moment where the next generation, empowered by our work, are bringing that youthful energy that is the cornerstone of all Soar’s activities. Since Soar began, we have been mining for learning and harvesting the best knowledge we could find and adapting it to meet the needs of the young people in Ireland. In 2015 we discovered that the learning can be massively diminished if we don’t allow time for reflection and integration. In order to assist in this process we offered a mindfulness course to our team during the year and we now include reflection as one of our key functioning pillars. Soar continues to break new ground and the young people we encounter everyday serve to remind us of the valuable role they have to play in society today. 2016 is going to be very exciting from a cultural perspective because you will witness Soar’s presence penetrating mainstream culture in a much more dynamic way. It will be organic and driven by young people, supported by a creative community of adults who haven’t forgotten what it feels like to be young. We are really seeing the birth of a culture that is growing strong and quickly and this will be felt by even more people in this great little country of ours this year. This is a defining year for Soar as we focus on contributing to the next 100 years of our history. I am already excited about writing this piece again in twelve months’ time. Karl Swan Co-Founder
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Soar programs ignite hope and self-belief so that young people can become the authors of their own destinies rather than victims of a script written outside their control. The aim of a Soar workshop is to create a safe space for authentic self-expression so that young people can develop a greater level of personal empowerment and inspiration to live a great life true to who they are.
Aim of a Soar program At Soar we train young people to have conversations with other young people where they can find their own path. We create temporary environments inside and outside of the school system, free of adult sensibilities. Within these environments young people can examine the social rules and beliefs they have been living by (for example; I will be judged if I speak my mind, I am not good looking enough, I am not a sporty kid or a popular kid, no one will ever really see me for who I am etc.) and deconstruct these to decide if they want to continue living by them or that they are disempowering. In this environment young people also get to construct new beliefs and behaviours that can maximise and realise their full potential. Within the programs the ultimate objectives are increased self-awareness and behavioural change so each young person can live the life that is congruent with their personal quest. For if you don’t have awareness how can you be empowered?
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Soar’s Primary School Program Our 6th Class workshops use themes from popular children’s media such as movies and music to create a safe, fun and engaging environment that encourages group discussion around having a dream in life, setting goals to achieve that dream, dealing with setbacks and having the courage to be yourself as you transition on to secondary school. This program’s aim is to develop the 6th class student’s emotional literacy in preparation for the often difficult transition to secondary school.
Soar’s Secondary School and Out of School Programs For many years now there has been a national conversation where it is popularly agreed that our young people need to be heard, that they are struggling and that fresh approaches to connect with and engage them are required. It became apparent to us as we travelled from school to school that emotional well-being was a missing piece in our primary and secondary education. Soar moved beyond the conversation to create something for young people driven by young people that permitted brave and authentic conversations to thrive, where emotional resilience could be nurtured to face life’s challenges and prepare young people to live great lives true to themselves. Soar’s secondary school program is aimed primarily at Transition Year students but is in demand from all other years in many of the secondary schools we work with. The program is made up of a 6 stage process:
But what actually happens in a Soar program? The first thing we do is create a safe space. We then provide what we call a ‘Hook’ which is an emotive stimulus – this could be a movie clip, an exercise or a challenge that is youth relevant and reveals the underlying beliefs of the individuals and the dynamic of the group. We then deconstruct or breakdown how the group arrived at its dynamic and what experiences have shaped how the young people see themselves and each-other. We create an honest exploration of how the dynamic and individual beliefs and behaviours show up on a daily basis in their lives.
As a first step in creating a greater awareness of the possibilities and potential in their lives, we look at what the future could be like without any beliefs or negative behaviours blocking them from accessing their greatest potential. They then share their experience of life and get the opportunity to tell their story and be heard. This in turn allows the group to relate to one another through these shared experiences. They also realise that they have already gained wisdom from living life and explore alternatives and positive choices that are in line with their own potential and unique journey. This stage of the workshop is the motivation to effect change in their lives if they feel it is required. Knowledge and wisdom are most powerful when put in to action so we create an opportunity for them to action their new choices within the safety of the workshop. This is in order for them to experience the results and practice new behaviours. (e.g. acknowledging their own unique strengths, acknowledging friendships and apologising to one another) The final stage is vital to all Soar workshops. In this stage the young person looks at how they will transition these behaviours and new self-empowering beliefs back in to their lives outside the safety of a Soar workshop.
What happens after a Soar workshop? This is a regular question we receive. There is a myth that Soar comes in to a school and provides an inspirational, potentially life-changing experience and then disappear. This is not the case. When the Soar program is delivered in a school there are a series of stages that ensure the young person can build on the workshop experience.
Continuing Engagement 1. Young people are directed to counselling and support services if required 2. The School books a follow up workshop 3. Young people attend Soar’s out of school program 4. Young people come to Soar for work experience 5. Young people choose to train to be Soar facilitators in the future
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Before the workshop A school contacts Soar to book a workshop. Our bookings team respond with a full information document on our programs and a booking form for the school to complete.
The bookings team liaises with the school to confirm a date.
Approximately a week before the workshop, our Child Protection and Well-being team contact the school to discuss the workshop logistics and the group dynamic.
On the day
We run the workshop!
As part of the workshop closure we signpost the young people to further support services if they require any additional care.
After the workshop
Soar facilitators run a debrief session to assess the workshop and record any learnings.
Our Child Protection and Well-being team complete a debrief call with the school to offer continued support to the young people and the care team within the school.
The young people provide feedback on their experience of the workshop through a survey. A follow up workshop is then booked by the school if required.
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We always hope that what we are doing can help impact and shape young people’s lives and help them grow. It’s one thing aspiring to empower young people, it’s another actually doing it. Too often we, as adults, take the easy option with young people and keep the status quo. I’m not surprised at what Soar showed me can happen, but I’m gripped by how they went about discovering it. Soar’s facilitators never give up. Neither should we. Donal Howley Teacher, Dublin
What teachers say about Soar
Soar’s work allows students to examine their group dynamic, share their struggles and express their admiration for each other. While the workshop can appear very hip and cool to begin with they reach a point where the student’s humanity is laid bare in front of each other in a way that is very profound. The team are able to create a space where a special conversation can happen. The workshops sink a well that we will draw from for the rest of the student’s school journey, providing us with a reference point in challenging situations. They also empower the students to make decisions about the school culture they want and provide them with some tools to forge it. Eóin MacMaoilir Transition Year Guidance Counsellor, Dublin 21
Listening to what Young People want to talk about‌
Bullying Depression Anxiety Fal Sexuality Alcohol problems Fa Taking slagging too far Gender ideation Peer Pressure How fam especially in small town Movin in a new school Not feeling abl judged Exam pressure Panic att and ignoring you the next Grief who are suicidal Feeling your f Worrying about self-image Fea confidence Media influence Fam hard to talk about feelings/pr 22
Because of the safe, structured environments we create within our workshops, young people, often for the first time ever, will feel comfortable in exploring challenges and worries that they have been harbouring or dealing with on their own. Every day we meet young people who are acknowledging and actively overcoming, through this exploration, these factors that can keep them feeling trapped and alone. Here are some of the individual and societal issues young people discussed in our workshops between February and December 2015.
lling out with friends amily members being sick r fluidity Anger Suicidal mily can keep us trapped, ng to Ireland and starting le to express yourself Being tacks People saying hi one day f and Loss Supporting friends family are disappointed in you ar of failure Lack of selfmilies separating Finding it roblems These issues were recorded anonymously by Soar facilitators at workshops throughout Ireland 23
…And what they have to say about our workshops... I learned that I can speak by myself with everyone looking at me, I always found it tough. But I did it
I shouldn’t let fear stop me doing what I want
I AM AMAZING
I learned that every one of us has our own story
I learned that It was like seeing the group 3D, whereas before I as a group we in only saw them in 2D. are very good It was very helpful because at smiling to I finally understood that cover up our it’s your life and nobody else own problems can run your life but you.
You are the most important I learned that we are all unique thing in your life, live for you and you will be happy and free and lovely It showed me that I should follow my dreams
I learned that everyone has gone through hard times and I am not alone in bad times. My whole year is really supportive, amazing group of people 24
It was like a weight being lifted off my shoulder
A dream is made big so you can grow into it
The greatest testament of the work that Soar does can be found in the voices of the young people we work with and within the hundreds of emails and messages we receive. After each workshop we ask young people to provide their feedback on what they have experienced. While we never intend to teach young people anything, we do aim to provide a place for them to find their own answers through their personal experiences and through the experiences of those around them. Here are some of the insights, opinions and learnings, collected from those who participated in our workshops.
I’d say it was I learned that we are a group the catalyst of strong amazing people for all us to that are full of love consider all the possibility I learned that I was always afraid to be of acceptance myself. And I am amazing and unique. The Soar workshop doesn’t I learned that I should bring some walls that are just change your opinion blocking people out, down. of yourself, it changes your Show the real me. opinion of the world
I learned that I need to learn to appreciate ALL of me It was incredible I have never felt so comfortable and at ease to talk about my problems and the team helped me come to terms with them
I learnt that I don’t have to be THE best, I just have to be MY best
It was such an inspirational insightful I now know my dream thanks to and a great bonding experience. All those Soar and I can involved were so caring, gentle and funny get that dream by believing in myself Instead of waiting for a better and aiming for what time like when I’m older, get I want to be out and make it happen now This feedback was recorded anonymously from secondary schools throughout Ireland. 25
Spaces and environments like the ones Soar specialises in providing, do not exist anywhere else in the places where young people hang out. They are bored with the bullshit that says you need to wear a mask to fit in and be popular and to feel good about yourself. Soar strips things right back so that they can talk about life and we ensure that it is safe to do so. The facilitators we train are aged 18-29 and young people feel that they are of the same tribe as them. They wear the same clothes, speak the same native tongue and just ‘get it’. These facilitators have gone through 3 years of in-depth training to hold these workshops. Soar facilitators are not counsellors or psychologists and do not purport to be. They have no religious doctrine to teach. Young people like this. Soar facilitators are trained in facilitation techniques so that it is the young people in each workshop who are centre stage and we never tell them how to think, feel or act. They are fed up with adults doing this to them so we encourage them to think for themselves and arrive at their own truth about their world. Our facilitators are also trained 26
in how to ‘spot’ young people in difficulty and work with the school and our own Head of Child Protection and Wellbeing to ensure these young people get what they need. The narrative of the workshop is based on the Hero’s Journey so it is universal and can be related to by every young person regardless of where they are on their own personal journey. Also our ability to appeal to young people stems from our use of media within popular culture. Soar’s artistic use of contemporary youth culture engages young people at a deep level ensuring that they are receptive to learning that can positively benefit them and their futures.
The Hero’s Journey is a narrative pattern developed by Joseph Campbell that features in films, stories, myths and psychological development. It describes the path of adventure followed by the “Hero�, a person who undertakes a journey on behalf of the betterment of themselves, their community or society as a whole. Our programs are centred on the belief that in life we are all on our own private heroic journey and we will all face both adventure and challenge along the way. 27
Child Protection In 2015, our Child Protection Team focused on developing a number of key areas that would enhance the work already being done by Soar, specifically around the well-being and support of the young people we engage with. These key areas are: Communicating with schools both pre and post workshop. This ensures all young people attending the workshop have access to on-going support. The purpose of the initial contact is to check-in with the school, to get an understanding of the group so that the facilitators are best prepared for what might arise, and to brief the teacher on the upcoming workshop. The purpose of the follow up contact is to share our knowledge and expertise of organisations that provide the curative support that some young people may need. It also acts as a vital support to the guidance counsellors and teachers who work directly with the young people. Attending workshops to support the care team within the school, the young people and our own facilitators. Supporting and signposting young people that contact us post workshop looking for support and help. This contact happens predominantly through email. Connecting young people with the care to match their needs. In the summer of 2015, we focused on building an extensive database of organisations providing curative care, counselling and support for young people both nationally and locally. To date, we have over 400 organisations on this database and we continue to expand it. This enables us, when needed, to connect young people and schools to organisations that suit their needs. We have also begun building relationships with specific organisations so that we are in a better position to advise young people and teachers of the available supports in their
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area. We will continue to connect with these organisations to ensure we are signposting young people to the best and most relevant care. Supporting parents who seek guidance. Supporting the well-being of the Soar team. As part of our well-being framework our Head of Child Protection and Well-being, Babs, meets with each member of the Soar team on a monthly basis. Given the sometimes challenging nature of the work that we do, these check-ins provide an important space for the team to express themselves and discuss anything they wish. These spaces are an integral part of the personal well-being and growth model of Soar. Continuing our education and training in Child Protection and Well-being. We are committed to furthering our knowledge and understanding of all aspects within this area. Babs is currently undertaking a Certificate in Child Protection and Well-being, which is accredited by Maynooth University and delivered by the National Youth Council of Ireland. Working with young people. Soar includes young people in all aspects of the work we do and the Child Protection Team were keen to incorporate this into their work too. All TY students who do work experience with Soar read our Child Protection and Welfare Policy and provide feedback on how it can be improved, so it is relevant to them. Our Youth Crew also link in with the team whenever they need additional support.
In 2015, the Child Protection and Welfare Team organised the following training for staff, volunteers and the board of Soar: • SafeTalk Training (Suicide Awareness) • Equality & Diversity Training • Mindfulness Meditation (6 week course) The Child Protection and Welfare Team attended a variety of learning conferences and events: • Technology, Mental Health and Suicide Prevention in Ireland, Reachout • A manifesto for all young people and children, NYCI • Wellness at Work, Aware & IBEC • Youth Mental Health Fair, St. Patricks Hospital • Child & Youth Poverty, Youth Work Ireland
Meet Babs
Our Head of Child Protection and Well-being After working in sales for many years, Babs took a new path in her career in 2000. For 15 years she worked in the homeless, addiction and youth & community sector. From this, Babs developed a very in-depth knowledge of how child protection and welfare needs arise and how to respond to these needs. In February 2015, Babs officially came on board as Soar’s Head of Child Protection and Well-being. She had been volunteering for two years previously. This has been a massive development for the organisation because we are now able to provide further care and support to the young people and schools that we work with. Babs’ role is diverse and two-fold. She is responsible for overseeing all Child Protection policies and procedures and ensuring the highest standards of Child Protection are implemented across all parts of the organisation. The other element of her role focuses on co-ordinating the well-being and self-care program throughout the organisation now and into the future. Through her very nature Babs brings a glow that radiates throughout our organisation maintaining a culture of love, compassion, respect and understanding. Babs has been the perfect person to step into this role because she brings unconditional warmth, understanding and loving energy to every aspect of her work. She has been a great role model in the approach she takes to caring and supporting both our team and the young people and schools that we work with.
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WAY OF THE WARRIOR
Inspiring Young Men to realise their greatness
In 2008 Soar CEO Tony Griffin met with the leader of the GPA Dessie Farrell with the aim of creating a national movement to empower young men in Ireland by supporting them during times of mental or emotional exhaustion. Seven years later in 2015 that dream became a reality when Soar and the GPA began a collaboration to create a pioneering new program. The aim of this program is to empower the next generation of young Irish men to throw off the limiting shackles of male stereotyping that inhibit them living great lives true to themselves. In January 2015 former Soar Board Member and true Soar believer Ruairi McKiernan began an in-depth, 6 month exploration of the feasibility and proposed model for a young men’s program. In conjunction with the GPA this period of discovery has formed the rationale for a program to be called Way of the Warrior. The youth of Ireland and the country itself, seem to be trembling with an eruption of exciting change. With this in focus, Way of the Warrior will empower the boys of our country to become men, fully equipped emotionally to take full part in the construction of a new and progressive reality that honours their own desire to be themselves while building on the work done by their elders.
The Challenge If the statistics around male suicide are anything to go by, there is an urgent need to support men in Ireland. 31
Content
According to the National Office for Suicide Prevention, suicide is the leading cause of death in young men aged 15-34 in Ireland, surpassing even deaths from road traffic accidents. Rates of youth suicides are now the 4th highest in Europe. Meanwhile, men account for 80% of all suicides in Ireland. Research shows that men are disproportionately affected by unemployment, depression, substance abuse, and homelessness. Rates of self-harm and eating disorders are also on the rise, while major issues exist around; violence, sex, relationships, separation, abuse, gambling, and identity.
The program will be based around existing Soar workshop content with a special focus on young men, in addition to learning from the Reach Foundation’s Locker Room program and other culturally relevant but visionary practices in Ireland and internationally. The content will be tailored to provide workshops exploring areas such as life purpose and vision, warriorship and courage, identifying wounds, blocks and fears, masculinities and manhood, sex and relationships, society values and pressures, cultivating self-mastery, and embarking upon the hero’s journey.
The Solution
Way of the Warrior Progress
By focusing on young men, and providing an accessible and contemporary form of rites of passage into manhood, this work can offset future problems while giving the men a head start in life that perhaps their fathers and grandfathers did not have. In this way, these men can be initiated into manhood and become future leaders, mentors and role models that inspire and nurture others in their community. This in turn helps create a strong social fabric that benefits everyone.
The Proposition Soar will create a community based program for young men. This program will be aimed at young men aged 13-17 who play GAA with their clubs and/or counties. In this regard Soar is especially keen to work with the GPA to provide training for a cohort of carefully selected intercounty players who will be supported to become skilled facilitators of this program in their clubs and communities.
Stripped
In August Soar brought together inter-county GAA stars and men from all walks of life to experience some of the content that will make up Way of the Warrior. It was a powerful night that served as a window in to what is in store for thousands of young men aged 13-17 all over the island of Ireland. This evening was inspired by Soar friend Tom Harkin and we would like to acknowledge the support and belief of these two great men in their own right – Ruairi McKiernan of Cavan and Tom Harkin of Antrim and Melbourne. Full Explorative Study of Way of the Warrior carried out by Ruairi McKiernan can be found by contacting info@soar.ie
‘If the young are not initiated into the tribe they will burn down the village just to feel its warmth.’ – African proverb
A program that strips back societal expectations, judgements and barriers and empowers young women to explore and acknowledge their own self-worth.
In early 2015 we acted on an idea that had been in concept since Soar’s early days. With the aim of creating a revolutionary girls empowerment program in Ireland, we assembled a team of vibrant young women from within Soar, passionate about enabling girls to explore their inner voice and innate power. From listening to the young women we have met through our transition year workshops we recognised the need for spaces where girls feel truly comfortable to use their voices, explore their identity and challenge the status quo of female stereotypes and societal expectations.
Young women creating the road map From the beginning of this project, the team were committed to creating a program that would be designed by young women for young women. With that in mind, in February, we set about recruiting 25 girls between the ages 32
Development in 2015 To further this unique program we connected with both The Australian Ireland Fund and the ESB Energy for Generations Fund. This support from both funds in the latter half of 2015 allowed us to really kick off the program design phase. It also allowed us to collaborate with Paige Harkin, Development Manager at The Reach Foundation. In October, we sought out Paige due to her incredible program development experience and her background in female empowerment and women’s rights projects. Paige supported us in creating and defining both the logistical structure of the program and content of the actual workshop. We aim to have our first pilot program ready for trialling with the young women of our Youth Crew group in early 2016, before a full roll out in schools later in the year.
What the program will look like
of 15 - 18, from all over Ireland who would meet monthly and discuss relevant themes to be explored within the workshops. Some of these topics included; body image, self-esteem, equality, sex and sexuality, femininity and the role of the mass media on women’s development and identity. These monthly meetings with this kick-ass group were vital to the process, as they shaped our continuing research and massively informed the content development stage of the project.
Designed specifically for girls aged 15 - 18, this experiential workshop will be delivered initially inside and later outside the school system. We will utilise examples and references from popular culture, historical events and activities as a catalyst for peer-to-peer discussion, exploration and individual action. Our aim is to create a space in which girls can explore themselves wholly and without judgement and develop the tools to improve self-confidence and emotional well-being. The program will be the first of its kind in Ireland and will empower young women to live an inspired life, embracing their true self and free from barriers, limitations or societal expectations. 33
Since we began running workshops in 2012 we have met hundreds of inspired young people fired up by the idea of joining a movement that is powered by young people. This year 30 of these embarked on a journey with us toward becoming the future contributors, facilitators, creatives and guides of the organisation. The group, aged between 16 and 18 met for the first time in May and have been a truly awesome addition since then. They are passionate about developing within themselves and avid about empowering others around them. They are also wild, courageous and inspiring and we are filled with pure excitement about what they will bring to Soar over the next few years. Here are some insights from our Youth Crew on what the journey so far has been like for them:
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In mid-October, the Youth Crew spent a weekend together in Wicklow on Soar’s first ever Youth Crew camp. The experience was truly powerful, inspiring and epic, to say the least!! In such a short space of time, I was able to connect with myself a lot more and really step out of my comfort zone. I went home with unforgettable memories and loads more confidence and pride in myself!
– Jack
The Youth Crew is incredible. It has created a group of people that you get to know so intimately and deeply in such a short space of time. With the struggles that we all face every day and especially in the leaving cert cycle it is invaluable to have the support network that the Youth Crew has given us. I feel like I can be myself, my true self with them and however I’m feeling is okay.
– Nathan
The weekend away with The Youth Crew was incredible. Those two days were some of the best days of my life. I learned so much about myself, made amazing friends and laughed so much. I wish I could go back and do it all over again. I love the spaces created in Soar, they are so unique and incredible. I feel Soar and the Youth Crew accepts me for who I am and doesn’t judge me. I know they’ll always have my back.
– Maeve
They never judged me, they listened to me and made me feel like I wasn’t the only one. To them I’m not a giggly, immature, always have to smile girl I am strong and wise and they inspire me to grow as a person with these qualities. They accepted me and I love them for that.
– Una You can be completely yourself without the fear of being judged or not being accepted, and I think that’s a very special thing considering the standards that are set in society today. I love the fact that Soar are trying to change that. They want people to be able to be themselves and be open and not have to hide away behind some fake persona. Getting to help make that come true in the smallest way, by being a part of the Youth Crew and by helping with fundraisers, and spreading the message of Soar, makes me so happy.
– Orla
Soar has had such a big impact on my life. Each and every time I meet up with Soar I gain more confidence and I grow in myself. I’ve met the most amazing people that are now my friends for life.
– Ciara
The real way of describing Soar, comes from sitting in a workshop. You are surrounded by people you know, maybe not very well but you know them all the same. You’ve spoken to them many times and have gone out with them, or maybe you just frequently glance at them in class and stalk their Instagram, but you know them...or at least you thought you did. Up until this point, everyone in the room was a classmate, a friend, an acquaintance, but now, they’re all people. Real people with real feelings.
– Bobbie
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Parent’s Letter
My son has had an outlet where, when he’s surrounded by the facilitators, staff and young people involved in Soar he can be himself. When there, those teenage walls are stripped away and he can be the young man that he wants to be
Garry Barcoe 36
parent
letter from our Board
2015 has been a huge year for Soar, in how it has truly evolved, into a powerful movement inspiring and empowering the youth of Ireland to take ownership of their own destiny. What an exciting journey it has been to be part of the Soar community, supporting the team in holding the essence of this unique vision and movement. As a board having active participation is so impactful because you actually get to experience the work, which is extremely fulfilling. We are always incredibly moved and inspired by the magic that happens in every workshop, where young people are visibly empowered and open up to their own possibilities. We learn so much from listening to our young participants who are courageous enough to call it as it is and share their inner wisdom. The consistently positive feedback from the young people themselves (and parents and teachers alike) is clear evidence that Soar has significant impact and it stays with them long after the workshop has occurred. We are so excited for what this country can be, the potential ahead with our young people carving out new paths, being their authentic selves and thriving future leaders. As with any model of such quality, significant investment (which comes in many forms and currencies) is needed to ensure high-impact and sustainability. As always funding can be a challenge - Soar’s metal has certainly been tested this year but the passion and commitment of the amazing management team to make it happen for our young people is remarkable - we are so PROUD! The impact of Soar is not only experienced by our young people, but anybody it touches. It’s the ripple effect, and wow can you feel how Ireland is changing as a result?! Energy is high and the potential ahead is enormous! Susan McGovern and Pat Moran Soar Board Members Our board consists of Susan McGovern, Pat Cusack, Clíona Diggins, Darren Ryan, Liam Laffey and Pat Moran. They bring a wealth of experience, guidance and care to Soar. We are incredibly fortunate to have them supporting us.
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Some of the highlights from an incredible year in Soar’s history... We introduced our
The F.I.Ts began delivering workshops independently of Co-Founders Tony and Karl
Facilitators in Training to the Soar Community
We formed our Youth Crew We hit a milestone! 10,000 young people Soar’d since we began running workshops in 2012
B a bs L e o n a r d joined the Soar team as our Head of Child Protection & Well-being
Davy committed to supporting Soar for the next 3 years
Facebook Free February
in support
of Soar
Soar
was chosen as one of
PWC’s
We went to
causes to support in
2015
Australia
Tony and Mark travelled to Melbourne to continue building relationships with Reach and the Australian Community
We assembled our
Girl’s Program team
F.I.Ts joined our team on a full time basis in September
We redeveloped our school’s communications package Fenero joined Soar as a supporting partner for 3 years 40
Acting Coach
Lucille Rivin
came from New York to run a one week intensive acting course with us
We were approved for tax relief on donations of €250 and above
Tom Harkin
The brilliant
Emeli Paulo
(Previously of The Reach Foundation)
joined us for a 2 month Facilitation training period
(previously of The Reach Foundation)
made a visit to Dublin to deliver a training workshop to our Facilitators
part of their AIG funds for SOAR as Summer Splash day chose to raise
We created our Safety Statement
Soar secured
We completed a Feasibility study for our Boy’s Program
W e l a u n ch e d o u r P a ss - I t - O n f u n d r a i s i n g c a m p a i g n i n sch o o ls
Dave Gough cycled from Alta to Malta
MOVIE
NIGHT We had our first Soar Movie Night
We introduced
a CRM system
The Australian Ireland Funds awarded us a €10,000 grant for the research and development of our Girl’s Program
€10,000
from the ESB Energy for Generations Fund
We kicked off our Monthly
Giving Campaign
We ran our first
C o r p o r a t e W o r k sh o p with Bank of Ireland graduates We ran our first ever
Crew Camp Weekend
and it was Epic!
transition year students
Paige Harkin from joined us for work experience The Reach Foundation
We ran our first
Boy’s Program event with
30 GAA players
from around the country
We began the creation of a
well-being strategy for Soar’s team
joined us for one week of strategic planning and development of our
Girl’s Program 41
Youth Crew Weekend In September, 30 young people, ignited by Soar travelled to Wicklow to explore and challenge themselves and to dive into the work Soar does. This was an epic weekend for both the Soar team and the crew as bonds and relationships were created and strengthened.
Introducing our F.I.Ts In February, we gathered our community, friends, supporters and family to meet our 6 new Facilitators in Training. Clodagh, Mick, Sinead, Ronan, Orlagh and Diarmuid each took to the stage and spoke on the night about themselves and the different paths their lives had taken which had led each of them to Soar. It was a beautiful night, full of passion, inspiration and firsts for Soar.
Dancing on the Dark Side at Soda Bread Box We let go of all inhibitions at the revolutionary Soda Bread Box dance event in July. It was a special night in which the 40 or so dancers turned up and really embodied Soar’s values of expression in a non-judgemental setting. Transition year students, board members, F.I.Ts, operations staff and the general public all gathered with the sole intention of cutting loose, dancing freely in the dark and enjoying the moment together.
I am Eleven Movie Screening Early in the year we met Australian filmmaker Genevieve Bailey. Genevieve travelled the world meeting amazing kids from different countries, hearing their stories and turned it into a heart-warming, inspirational film called ‘I Am Eleven’. Genevieve came to Ireland in August and screened her film privately for the Soar community. Young people from Soar let their voices be heard when they took part in a wonderful Q&A session after the film with Genevieve. It was a special night and the start of many Soar movie nights. 42
The Jim Stynes Tribute Hellfire Run
Ecclesiastical Table Quiz
In July, our team and some of our close community completed our second annual 10k Hellfire trek to remember the late, great Jim Stynes. We were met by Jim’s parents Brian and Tess who made the morning even more special.
Organised by our corporate partners Ecclesiastical, the 3rd annual table quiz in support of Soar was the best one yet. A huge group of charged people came together and put their minds to the test, raising €2,970 for Soar
Warriors Within A team of warriors emerged from the Soar community in November to take to the ring in Soar’s first White Collar Boxing event. The night tested not only the physical but the mental strength of the 20 warriors who took on the challenge with Soar in their hearts. Thanks to Garry Barcoe, Alannah Gauld and all the warriors who trained and battled it out in support of the work we do.
Maynooth Back to the Playground Day We let our inner child go mad at Maynooth University Student’s Union “Back to the Playground” event on the 23rd of May. The SU pulled out all the stops and created a giant adult playground complete with inflatable slides, bouncing castles and mechanical bulls. It was an excellent opportunity for us to get out and engage with the students of Maynooth who had been supporting Soar throughout the year… and also have a go on the bouncing castle!
Alta to Malta At the beginning of June, Dave Gough set off from Ireland with a bike, a stove, a tent and a massive challenge in his sights. He committed to acting on a long-time dream and began a journey cycling from Alta, Norway to Malta, raising funds for Soar along the way. In July, Dave reached Malta after nearly 2 full months of cycling, for the most part alone. He camped every night and cooked his meals on the small stove. Throughout, Dave faced immense physical, logistical and mental challenges but overcame each one. We are absolutely inspired and thankful to Dave. 43
Karl visits Aspiro Wilderness Therapy Project On Soar’s behalf, last October I had the opportunity to travel to Utah and experience a wilderness therapy program run by the renowned Aspiro Organisation. It was an in incredible opportunity to share learnings and experiences. The quality of the Aspiro team was second to none and I was particularly taken by the field guides, whose depth of knowledge of their environment and how they dealt with the young adults on the program was an inspiration. The field guides reminded me of the commitment our own facilitators in Soar make every day in their own work. The Aspiro model fully immerses young adults in the most incredibly beautiful environment for eight to fourteen weeks. There was great value in me experiencing the strategies Aspiro use and I am particularly thankful to Clinical Wilderness Therapist, Gillan who shared his depth of knowledge and experience in this sector. Through this 44
work with their Therapy Consultants, I learnt about the services they provide in guiding a young person and their families through the various therapies and interventions available to them and which ones may best serve the requirement of their loved one. This will enhance Soar’s ability to meet the needs of all young people in the future and has really contributed to how I shape my own work within Soar. This experience has given us an in depth understanding of what would be required in providing such a comprehensive program for young people and their families. Exposing ourselves to different models, will continue to contribute to how Soar shapes itself in the future. Huge gratitude to all those who facilitated in this occurring. If would like to learn more about Aspiro’s work can check out their website at: www.aspiroadventure.com Karl Swan Co-Founder
New York based acting coach Lucille Rivin brings Soar on a journey of self-expression Lucille Rivin, is a New York based actress, known for Home Free All (1984), Abbie Down East (2002) and Law & Order (1990) as well as Director of Curriculum Design at the Leadership Program (a dynamic, urban organization that enriches lives, emboldens confidence, and expands options by building strong leaders in classrooms and communities). In June, Lucille came to Ireland at Soar’s invitation to spend a week in a training capacity. But why would a master acting coach work with Soar’s facilitators? Acting is the art of creating realities on stage. Facilitation is the art of holding an individual and group as they discover how to unearth more of the reality they’d like to experience. Many of the tools actors use to find within themselves the emotion necessary to embody a particular character can be employed by facilitators to access the emotional bandwidth to relate to as many different types of young
people as possible. So bringing a master teacher of accessing emotion was a no brainer for Soar! Aim: To experience personal expansion where our facilitators in training step out of their comfort zones using acting exercises for greater self-expression and connection to deeper universal emotion. Objective: To be able to connect with emotion within themselves so as to be ‘ready’ to facilitate a room made up of varying life narratives and emotional journeys. The Desired Outcome was that Soar facilitators had a deeper understanding of who they were as people and therefore could connect with a wider spectrum of young people in a workshop. It was a hugely significant week for Soar which challenged us, but everyone gave their all and dug deep in each session with one objective in mind – how do we learn new skills so that we are better positioned to empower young people? Our immense gratitude to you Lucille for believing in Soar and spending part of your summer holidays in Ireland sharing your deep bank of knowledge and experience. We would like to also express our gratitude to the Gaelic Players Association for your support of this training endeavour. 45
Tony works with Dr. Hal and Dr. Sidra Stone In 2015 Soar CEO, Tony Griffin won the Ray Murphy Fund for Leadership award. Ray Murphy worked for the Mott Foundation and Atlantic Philanthropies and was instrumental in helping establish both. When he passed away in 2007 the board of the Community Foundation established a 10 year fund in his memory focusing on an area of particular interest to him – leadership in the not for profit sector. The fund is aimed at Chief Executives (or equivalent) within the community and voluntary sector with the aim of supporting CEOs to reflect on their leadership role within the community. In August Soar CEO Tony was fortunate enough to receive this prestigious award. The project he chose to undertake was to travel to Albion, California to spend time with and learn from Dr. Hal and Dr. Sidra Stone, creators of the Voice Dialogue method of personal development. The outcome Tony hoped to achieve was to develop his emotional literacy in order to be a more effective leader of the Soar Foundation as well as learning new skills that would find their way into Soar’s programs. Internationally acclaimed psychologists Hal Stone (founder of the Center for Healing Arts in San Francisco, one of the first holistic health centers in the US) and Sidra Stone (psychologist, master facilitator and author) developed the 46
Voice Dialogue approach to the development of human potential in the early 1970s and have refined and expanded it over the years through worldwide workshops and retreats. ‘I had studied the Dr Stone’s work from afar and have been inspired by their approach to development of awareness and emotional literacy. I wrote to Hal and Sidra to tell them of my admiration for their work and its potential to develop my own leadership skills. I received a response inviting me to spend time with them at their home where they would share their approach and their vision for consciousness. In terms of learning their techniques to develop my own emotional literacy as a leader, this was akin to a creator of classical music getting to spend time with Mozart as they are the masters of their craft‘. ‘The week I spent with Hal and Sidra was one of the most challenging, yet rewarding in memory and it would be a highlight of my year with Soar. Their work is very experiential so they pushed my comfort zones to their limit. I’ve always found that that is where the greatest learning awaits us so I was a willing subject. I am very excited by the potential of the Stone’s approach to unlocking some of the latent potential that lies within all of us. I feel their methodology would be a perfect fit for young people in Ireland. I would like to thank, most sincerely, Hal and Sidra for accepting my request to spend time with them and for the way in which they so generously opened up their knowledge, experience and home to me. You are both dear friends to me. I would also like to thank everyone at the Community Foundation for their support in this journey and finally, I would like to thank you Ray, for giving me the opportunity to experience such rich learning. I hope I did your memory justice.’
Mick, Facilitator in Training, brings a little of Soar’s magic to Nepal In the early days of Soar’s creation Tony and Karl met and partnered with Stelfox IT Recruitment. This partnership allowed Soar to get up and running and has continued to strengthen over the years. Stelfox also contribute toward a Nepalese organisation called Indreni. Through this connection, in October of 2015, Soar F.I.T Mick Donovan was lucky enough to take a trip with some of the Stelfox team and a smashing group of people to work with Indreni in Nepal for one week. Indreni is an organisation which has created a loving home and a wonderful school for young people in Nepal. It is also involved in many other projects around Kathmandu and Nepal.
“Soar crew member, Brian Kingston and I were lucky enough to be given the gift of chatting to these young heroes in a workshop setting for most of the day. The power of open, honest conversation is so transferable across all cultures. It was an amazing experience.” With a great contingent of “Soarriors”, Mick ran two Soar workshops for the young people during his time there. Mia, Bobbie, Zach and Matthew, four inspiring teenagers on the trip also dived into an early morning session, creating a unique space for the young Nepalese people. The week over there was spectacular. 47
AIB join Soar in empowering young people to fulfil their POTENTIAL One of the big news items in Soar’s world in 2015 was the announcement that AIB, one of Ireland’s leading financial institutions, have signed a multi-year partnership agreement with Soar, where they have committed to significant financial support for our organisation over the next three years. The aim is that the partnership changes young people’s lives and unlocks youth potential. The outcome we will strive toward is that Ireland gets a generation of inspired young people creating their own destiny that builds a leadership legacy for the future. True to their message of ‘Backing Brave’, AIB is creating opportunities for young people to be brave and back themselves to live great lives. The incredible support will ensure that 5,000 young people in 100 schools all over Ireland experience a Soar program. Also, AIB will be the founding supporters behind Soar’s ground-breaking young men’s program Way of the Warrior that will see current inter-county GAA players being trained in how to work with teenage boys on emotional resilience and self-mastery. Welcoming the announcement, Bernard Byrne, CEO of AIB said, “The team at AIB is delighted to back Soar, and to help support all the young people they work with. Through its great work, Soar is making a real and positive contribution to our country’s future, and we look forward to supporting them over the coming years. Once you see the passion and energy that Soar’s team bring to their mission, it is hard not to be impressed and humbled.” Soar would like to welcome AIB to the Soar community and look forward to creating something special together over the next three years…and beyond! A special tribute to Soar friend Michael Slein for his guidance and support throughout the last year in creating the fertile ground for this relationship to flourish. 48
Letter from Our Corporate Partners Around September 2012, Ecclesiastical Insurance was looking for a new charity partner and Karl Swan arrived to tell us about Soar. Straight away Karl’s passion for Soar and the potential of young people in Ireland connected with us. Soon after that meeting, we met with Tony and our biggest question was how they would find people of similar drive and passion to develop and grow Soar. It has been incredible to see how Soar has developed over the last three years and to experience the energy, enthusiasm, commitment and drive of the Facilitators and the Operations team who make Soar what it is today and the impact that they have on young people’s lives across the country. The greatest privilege has been to experience a workshop and see first-hand Soar working with young people. Soar are giving them a safe space to explore a myriad of feelings, emotions, opportunity and challenge and in today’s increasingly complex world, the time to do this with their peers is invaluable. Everyone is different and whatever a young person takes from a Soar workshop whether it is the avoidance of selfharm, peer respect, the realisation that it is okay to have “their” dream or just be themselves, they are better for it. Soar continues to develop in many ways and with the passion and energy of the expanding Soar community I have no doubt it will go from strength to strength and continue to have a positive impact on the well-being of young people across Ireland. David Lane Managing Director, Ireland, Ecclesiastical Insurance
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Over the last twelve months we have worked with 5,817 young people across Ireland and a total of 13,217 young people ever since our very first workshop. In 2015 we were able to reach 917 more young people than in 2014. Since the inception of Soar, we have been passionately committed to assessing the influence of our workshops on the well-being of the young people with whom we work. Developing a monitoring and evaluation (M&E) tool saw Soar utilise a well-being assessment model developed by New Philanthropy Capital (NPC), a UK based measure. The results indicated that Soar’s workshops have a significantly positive influence on the well-being of workshop participants. This research has served as a great learning tool. The next step for Soar was to partner with a research team who could deliver an M&E model that would be more suitable to an Irish context. This led us to Dr Barbara Dooley and Dr Amanda Fitzgerald of University College Dublin. Dr Dooley and Dr Fitzgerald developed the My World Survey (2012) in partnership with Headstrong. The My World Survey research is the first of its kind in Ireland, giving a comprehensive overview of the mental health of young people in Ireland. Together with UCD we will begin an evaluation of Soar’s early intervention, preventative wellness workshop with a focus on the impact on Transition Year students. The monitoring and evaluation data will be gathered and analysed by UCD psychology MA students Alison Clarke and Rebecca Corr. We are very excited to gain a comprehensive understanding of the impact of our work on the well-being of young people. The first phase of this research will be launched in February 2016.
Mayo 139
Galway 70
Clare 268
Limerick 150
Cork 178
50
2015
Cavan 170
Meath 416 Dublin 2,434 Offaly 333
Young People
Antrim
-
Armagh
-
Carlow
-
Cavan
170
Clare
268
Cork
178
Derry
-
Donegal
-
Down
-
Dublin
2,434
Fermanagh
Kildare 25 Laois 48
County
Galway
Wicklow 434
Kilkenny 100
-
Kildare
25
Kilkenny
100
Laois
48 150
Longford
-
Louth
-
Mayo
139
Meath
416
Offaly
333
Roscommon
-
Sligo
-
Tipperary
Waterford 239
-
Limerick
Monaghan
Wexford 422
70
Kerry
Leitrim
Tipperary 391
-
Tyrone
391 -
Waterford
239
Westmeath
-
Wexford
422
Wicklow
434
Total
5,817 51
The demand for Soar’s work since our inception in 2012 has required a sustained period of growth which has brought us to where we are now. This growth continued in 2015 with new programs developed, more young people reached, training and development of new and existing facilitators and the addition of a key member to the Soar Team, and lots more besides!
2015 was a year where Soar consciously combined a strategy of sustainable growth with consolidation and grounding the organisation.
Programs
While Soar is intent on growing to meet the needs of Ireland’s young people, it is important we do so in a measured way intent on upholding our quality model right across the organisation. Soar’s leadership team listened to all parts of the organisation and took action, implementing a period of consolidation throughout quarter 4. This focus on solidifying and systemising our organisation will serve us well when embarking on what will be a mega 2016!
Operations
•
5,817 young people reached through our school based programs
•
Soar’s Head of Child Protection and Well-being joined the team
•
Engaged with 35 young people through our work experience placement program
•
Implemented MS Dynamics CRM system
•
Soar’s well-being plan in operation for our team
•
5 Soar facilitators running Soar workshops independently
•
Moved Soar HQ to a new space in The Chocolate Factory
•
30 x crew of 16 – 20 year olds in training to be next generation of Soar facilitators
•
Boy/Girl specific programs created
Collaborations •
Research/Impact •
Partnered with UCD to assist in monitoring and evaluating Soar’s impact
•
To date schools in 20 counties throughout Ireland have received a Soar workshop
Funding/Finance
Continued to work closely with the GPA and ran some experiential events for their members
Telling the Soar Story •
Launched our Soar Story Chapter 2
•
Complete review and update of Soar’s communications with schools/parents
•
Created a beautiful event introducing Soar’s facilitators to our community
•
Independently generated €324,676.91 in funding
•
Launched Soar’s Monthly Giving campaign
•
Launched Soar’s ‘Pass-it-On’ campaign
•
Implemented a high quality cash flow tracking and reporting framework
•
First tribal gathering to codify and capture Soar’s Culture
•
Soar’s Sustainability Team contributing greatly to our fund generation
•
Youth Crew and Facilitators appointed as advisors to the board
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Essence
2016 is a year all in Soar are very excited about. We have made huge strides in the last 3 years to grow and meet the demand, while also building a solid foundation on which to really launch this movement. The time is right for real impact, we are ready, and most importantly, our young people are ready. As we planned the year ahead, the essence of our work, to empower the next generation of young people in Ireland, remained firmly at the core of all decision making. Here’s what we have planned….
Programs
Operations
•
School based Workshops delivered to 7,000 young people
•
Develop an efficient and high-impact volunteer program
•
Official launch of ‘Way of the Warrior’ boy’s program in partnership with the GPA
•
Appoint an Office Manager and Fund Generation Manager to the team
•
A facilitation team of 6 facilitators, 4 support crew and 30 Youth Crew
•
Soar’s Well-being Charter in place
•
Launch ‘Stripped’, Soar’s nationwide Girl’s program
•
•
Run quarterly out-of-school programs for 12 year olds in their community
Official collaborations with associated organisations and curative organisations in the youth space
Funding/Finance •
Achieve our fund generation target of €741,680
•
Move closer towards a sustainable funding model through our Monthly Giving Campaign and our Pass-it-On Campaign
•
Implement systems to ensure maximum efficiency throughout all financial processes
Research/Impact •
Form our Research Team to work closely with our research partners, UCD
•
Conduct research evaluating the impact of Soar’s Transition Year early intervention, preventative, well-being program
OUR PEOPLE Telling OUR Story •
Soar’s ‘Essence Team’ to create our culture document
•
Align with media partner to champion the voice of young people
•
Launch The Soar Story Chapter 3
•
Young people represented and contributing to Soar’s Governance Board
•
Young people contributing to Soar’s quarterly planning sessions
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Financial overview 2015
Corporate workshops
2015 was a year where we increased the scale and impact of our programs, while being cognisant of maintaining our quality model. This managed growth came with a slight increase in expenditure on the previous year. This is in line with the investment needed to evolve Soar from a start-up to an organisation having real impact on the next generation of Irish people. The primary investment was in building a crew of facilitators and an operational team that will deliver our objectives and place Soar in a very robust position for years to come (or as long as young people need Soar!). Soar is at a stage of its life cycle where we are focusing on organisational sustainability, with a particular focus on our financial framework. We have taken big strides in 2015 towards financial sustainability with the launch of our Monthly Giving Campaign, Pass-it-On campaign and some corporate workshops.
Monthly Giving Campaign
This campaign was launched to allow people contribute through a monthly direct debit and enable the delivery of early intervention well-being programs to young people all over the island of Ireland. This form of funding is the best means of sustainable income and a successful campaign will allow us move our financial planning to a more medium/ long term basis.
The work we do with young people, igniting personal and group potential is an easily transferable model to the private/corporate space. While remaining firmly focused on our mission to serve Ireland’s young people, we see the potential in strategic and managed activity in this sector using ground-breaking emotional resilience content coupled with the skills and experience of our facilitators, with the proceeds distributed back into Soar to reach more young people.
Pass-it-on
We are constantly being asked by young people and parents post workshop how they can assist in the movement. We have created a platform comprising of our monthly giving campaign and other fund generation options for people to get involved and raise funds to pass the experience on to another group of young people. We are excited about a truly people led initiative resulting in real impact! There has also been valuable learning this year. As we are working towards a sustainable and robust funding model, there have been periods where we have had to dig deep and work hard to ensure the resources were in place to deliver our vision. It is with great pride that we came through these challenges as a team and continued the movement.
Income streams 2015
How funds were allocated in 2015
(values and % of Income)
(values and % of expenditure)
Program DeliveryProgram Costs: Delivery 241,430.29 Costs:(49%)241,430.29 203,754.35 (49%) Soar Community & Soar Events: Community €27,690.00 & Events: (9%) €27,690.00 (9%)
School Workshops: School Workshops: €39,825.50 (12%)€39,825.50 (12%) Partnership Governance: Partnership Governance: 540.00 (0%)
540.00 - (0%) €6,000.00 (2%) Marketing & Promotions: Marketing &84,174.12 Promotions: (17%) 84,174.12 70,213.91 (17%) Direct Debits / Other: Direct Debits / Other: €11,634.03 (4%) €11,634.03 (4%)
Corporate Workshops: Corporate Workshops: €6,000.00 (2%) TOTAL:
TOTAL:
€324,676.91
Research & Development: 4,669.95 (1%) €324,676.91 Research & Development: TOTAL
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TOTAL
494,097.62
85,490.85 203,754.35 -
70,213.91
4,669.95 4,669.95 (1%)
4,669.95
494,097.62 364,129.06
364,129.06
€ Payroll allocation
Professional 45,761.10 Services: (9%) 45,761.10 (9%) €5,000.00 (2%)Professional Services:
Foundations, Grants Foundations, & Charities:Grants €50,400.00 & Charities: (16%)€50,400.00 (16%) Property Costs: Property Costs: 11,255.46 (2%) 11,255.46 (2%) Donor Funds: Donor Funds: €70,000.00 (22%)€70,000.00 (22%) Administration Costs: Administration 106,266.71 Costs: (22%)106,266.71 85,490.85 (22%) Corporate Partnerships: Corporate Partnerships: €114,127.38 (35%) €114,127.38 (35%)
€ Payroll allocation
Friends of Soar: Friends of Soar: €5,000.00 (2%)
2016
Friends of Soar: Friends of Soar:
This process will take time and focus but we are committed to investing in this model.
Professional Services: 45,761.10 (9%) 45,761.10 (9%) €5,000.00 (2%) €5,000.00 (2%) Professional Services:
TOTAL
TOTAL
494,097.62
494,097.62 364,129.06
364,129.06
Projected Income for 2016
Projected Expenditure for 2016
(values and % of Income)
(values and % of expenditure)
Friends of Soar: Friends of Soar: €50,000.00 (7%)€50,000.00 (7%)
Professional Services: Professional Services: €7,000.00 (1%) €7,000.00 (1%)
Global Clan:
Property Costs: Property Costs: €14,520.00 (3%)€14,520.00 (3%)
Global Clan:
€30,000.00 (4%)€30,000.00 (4%)
Foundations, Grants Foundations, & Charities: Grants €100,000.00 & Charities: (13.5%) €100,000.00 (13.5%) Donor Funds:
Donor Funds:
€100,000.00 (13.5%) €100,000.00 (13.5%)
Corporate Partnerships: Corporate Partnerships: €300,000.00 (40%) €300,000.00 (40%) Events:
Events:
€20,000.00 (3%)€20,000.00 (3%)
School Workshops: School Workshops: €65,000.00 (9%)€65,000.00 (9%) Corporate Workshops: Corporate Workshops: €24,000.00 (3%)€24,000.00 (3%) Monthly Giving Monthly Campaign: Giving Campaign: €52,680.00 (7%)€52,680.00 (7%) TOTAL:
Costings
TOTAL:
€741,680.00
€ Payroll allocation
€ Payroll allocation
2016 is a year where we wish toCharities: build on strides made(16%) Foundations, Grants Foundations, & Grants €50,400.00 &the Charities: (16%) €50,400.00 Property Costs:Property Costs: 11,255.46 (2%) 11,255.46 (2%) towards a sustainable funding Soar’s leadership Donor Funds: Donor model. Funds: €70,000.00 (22%) €70,000.00 (22%) Soar is planning for106,266.71 the future. Along with meeting program AdministrationAdministration Costs: Costs: (22%) 106,266.71 85,490.85 (22%) 85,490.85 team, financial Corporate sustainability teamPartnerships: and board members Partnerships: Corporate €114,127.38 (35%) €114,127.38 (35%) and operational costs, we will endeavour to build financial have all contributed expertise towards&€27,690.00 diversifying our (9%)Program Delivery Costs: (49%) 241,430.29 203,754.35 (49%) 203,754.35 Soar Community Soar & Events: Community Events: (9%)€27,690.00 reserves Program inCosts: 2016Delivery to241,430.29 invest in our programs, our people and income base toSchool reduce theSchool riskWorkshops: to our financial sustainability. Workshops: €39,825.50 (12%) €39,825.50 (12%) Partnership Governance: Partnership Governance: 540.00 (0%) 540.00 - (0%) the monitoring and evaluation of our work. It -is our intention Corporate Workshops: Corporate Workshops: €6,000.00 (2%) €6,000.00 (2%) in 2016 toMarketing generate the pledged funding Soar’s The sustainable funding streams outlined below will be Marketing & Promotions: & Promotions: 84,174.12 (17%)84,174.12 70,213.91 (17%)to secure 70,213.91 Direct Debits / Other: Direct Debits / Other: €11,634.03 (4%)€11,634.03 (4%) financial future to 2020 which will mean we can reach developed and evolved to meet operational and workshop Research & Development: Research & Development: 4,669.95 (1%) 4,669.95 4,669.95 (1%) 4,669.95 TOTAL: TOTAL: €324,676.91 €324,676.91 50,000 young people in the next 5 years. costs and fund the growth of new programs as required.
Administration Costs: Administration €118,000.00 Costs: (23%) €118,000.00 (23%) Program Delivery Program Costs: Delivery €272,580.00 Costs: (54%) €272,580.00 (54%) Partnership Governance: Partnership Governance: €540.00 (0%)
€540.00 (0%)
Marketing & Promotions: Marketing & Promotions: €87,935.00 (17%) €87,935.00 (17%) Research & Development: Research & Development: €6,225.00 (1%) €6,225.00 (1%) TOTAL:
TOTAL:
€506,800.00
€506,800.00
€741,680.00
We worked extremely hard in 2015, assisted by our partners KPMG, to establish accurate costings for the programs we run. This was a hugely beneficial process, giving us a great understanding of our model and allowing our team make informed decisions towards sustainability. This is also in line with Soar’s strong commitment to transparency across the organisation.
Total cost per young person:
€26.32
Total cost per workshop:
€1,547.48
*Based on the cost (i.e. payroll/subsistence/equipment/ printing/training) of providing 88 school workshop to 5,173 young people, with an average group size of 59, during the period 01/09/2014 to 31/08/2015.
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What is unique about Soar is the community of wild, creative, supportive people who keep the movement energised, sustained and ultimately, reaching young people. This group come from different cities, industries and walks of life but are united by their passion for allowing others live the incredible lives they dream for themselves. Their support is the reason we can continue to impact so many. We are endlessly grateful. Founding Friends: From Soar’s embryotic state, this group have believed in its power and importance. Their contributions come in many different forms including funding, strategic guidance and expertise. Their input and vision for Soar’s sustained development is both incredibly valuable and valued. Tony Garry, Mick Kearney and Tony Keily Friends of Soar Mick Heavy and Susan Dargan Partners who supported Soar in 2015
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Corporate Partners Soar is very fortunate to be supported by corporate partners who truly recognise the importance of igniting and inspiring the next generation in Ireland. Their commitment to Soar has been of massive benefit to us in 2015.
Soar Champions Offering skill, expertise, guidance and care, this group of amazing organisations and people have assisted us in all areas of our operations. Huge thanks to each of them for pushing us on and enabling us to strive and succeed at all of the things we’re learning to be great at as an organisation.
Foundation Partners A massive thanks to these foundations for getting us off the ground and keeping us up in the air. They have permitted us to continue building our team, our programs and our reach. The One Foundation Community Foundation of Ireland Social Entrepreneurs Ireland Australian Ireland Fund ESB Energy for Generations Fund Business in the Community The 10k Fund Ireland These great people believed and acted on this belief for Soar. Thank you all. Alannah Gauld Aidan Gordon Amelia O’Brien Barbara Dooley, Amanda Fitzgerald and the Research team in UCD Barbara Owen Ben Finnegan, Sharleen Tuite, Mal Callan and David Ryan from Maynooth
University Brian Gilsenan Ciara Cunningham Ciara Clifford Conor Cusack Danny Boylan Dave Gough Declan O’Rourke Dessie Farrell Diarmuid Sexton Don Farrell Emmet Bergen, William O Finnegan Anderson Flynn & Ryan McCarthy from KPMG Evelyn Carroll Frank Darcy Garry Barcoe George Boyle Gerry, Val, Dug, Keith and all at the Chocolate Factory Ian Kingston Ivan Kelly James Sexton Joe Murphy Keith Molony Leah Burke Liam Devane Lorcan Mulhern Louise Wheatley at Etihad Marah Curtin Mary McCluskey Maurice Mason Mick Slein
THANK YOU SUSAN QUIRKE Soar was incredibly fortunate that at a time last year when we needed to bolster our team, Susan was available to step in and support in any way she could. Her presence was felt immediately. Those of us who have worked in small teams know the value of someone slotting in seamlessly, taking ownership of projects and knowing that they will be absolutely safe in their hands – this is what Susan brings every time. Her understanding of Soar’s work at such a deep level allows Susan to extract the essence and bring it to life in many of Soars communications. This is done with immense skill, care, compassion and no shortage of hard work and grit. What can’t be measured in a project evaluation is the impact Susan’s presence had on the team during a period
Niamh O’Carroll Paul O’Sullivan Philippa Keogh Ruairí McKiernan Rory Gillen Rory Quinliven Siobhan Early Seamus Whitney Tara O’Shea The team at AIG Timmy Hammersley Tuathal, Hassan, Eoin and all the crew at Blas Everyone at The Garage in Microsoft Australia Our Australian supporters, advocates and dear friends who offer us a base of knowledge, learning and care. We continue to cherish these relationships and the support we receive. Alecia Whitelaw Brian and Tess Stynes Carl Walsh Chris and Seamus Moloughney Diarmuid Kelly Don McLardy Elliot Costello Emeli Paulo
Genevieve and Henrik from “I am Eleven” Jennifer Ring Justin Bock Paige Harkin Ronan Lehane Sharon Stynes Stephen Gray The Reach Foundation Tom Harkin Lucy Kennon, Kim Dawes and Sophie Noone for making their way to us. Healy Group From all at Soar we would like to pay a special tribute to Maurice Healy and all at the Healy Group. For fully believing in the work Soar does, for backing us at our earliest stages and for the contribution they have made to our development over the past 3 years, we are incredibly grateful. Their belief and honesty made for a truly special partnership. We wish Maurice and all at the Healy Group the very best in the future.
of significant change. Soar was investing heavily in our trainee facilitators as we knew they would be the key to the long term sustainability of the programs, they in turn were making difficult life choices to fully commit to Soar. It required a leap of faith from all involved. Susan’s solidity, calming presence and willingness to support people through this period greatly assisted the transition. Her subtle and important mentorship cannot be underestimated. Susan has been a cornerstone of Soars work since its inception and has played a huge part in our journey to date. She is a dear friend who we love immensely and will always be a guardian to Soar and our people. We wish her every success as she follows her heart into new projects and unleashing the music. Love from all at Soar.
THANK YOU To Ciara Quinn and Orlagh Reilly who have driven this project from day one. To Dave Darcy who has yet again created exactly what we were looking for and to Pauline Rowan for her beautiful images throughout. 57
There are no words that su are just feelings that each them and ne 58
um up what Soar does, there h person carries away with ever forget. Rosie Young Person
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The Soar Foundation Our home: The Chocolate Factory, 26 Kings Inn Street, Dublin 1 info@soar.ie www.soar.ie
facebook.com/soarireland @soar_foundation
Reg Charity No: CHY 20551 60