‘A broader reach’: SOAR workshops expand in 2026, supporting more families
Substance use disorder extends beyond the individual. It only makes sense that support must expand, too.
“It affects the person who struggles with addiction, but it goes so far beyond that — to kids, families, and friends,” says Tyra Gutschow, Community Relations account executive. “Everyone who loves the person struggles, too.”
Recent grants are supporting the expansion of Rogers’ Strength Over Addiction Recovery (SOAR) workshops. Started in Sheboygan, SOAR is designed to support children and adolescents facing the emotional and psychological challenges of having a loved one with substance use disorder. Since then, it has expanded to sessions in both Manitowoc and Oconomowoc.
This year, a grant awarded through the Bader Foundation paves the way for monthly SOAR programs rotating between Brown Deer, Oconomowoc, and West Allis. Another grant from the Green Bay Packers Foundation supports one SOAR workshop in the Fox Cities area, to be planned and held in 2026.
“To see the way this program has positively impacted families and children’s lives, I knew it was something that needed to go beyond Sheboygan,” Tyra says. “When I found out we were awarded this grant, it was so exciting, knowing that we’re going to be able to bring this to more families and have a broader reach.”
SOAR workshops provide fun activities for children and teens ages 6 through 15 while they learn about substance use, stigma, and resiliency. They have the opportunity to gain coping skills such as meditation, mindfulness, and yoga. Another workshop is designed for parents, guardians, and caregivers. The workshops, including activities and lunch, are provided free of cost.
“When a child has a loved one struggling with substance use, it’s often taboo and not talked about. In reality, this is common,” Tyra says. “The kiddos not only participate in hands-on activities promoting resiliency and coping skills, but they learn they’re not alone.”
Tyra says SOAR’s expansion highlights another valuable way Rogers is able to offer support.
“Beyond the services we provide, there is so much more that we do,” she says. “I think this is a really great opportunity and something really meaningful we do to serve our communities.”
James Hishmeh, director of Addiction Services, says he hopes to expand the program into the Wausau area in the future, as well.
“Addiction impacts us all, whether directly or indirectly,” James says. “This program is beneficial for children and teens even if they don’t currently have someone in their home struggling with substance use. They learn important skills that will translate to many areas of their lives.”
While the impacts of substance use ripple out, so do efforts like SOAR, contributing to a reduction in stigma while reflecting a trend toward open conversation and support.
“Substance use and recovery are things that even ten years ago, we weren’t talking about to this extent,” Tyra says. “Now, you’re allowed to express feelings on how substance use disorder has affected you. I have seen such a progression in much of society acknowledging that addiction is a disease, and it takes community efforts like SOAR to address it and everyone it impacts.”
