Southern Oregon Aspire

02/12/2026

Susan and Moosey are getting ready for a hike around Spaulding Pond. Taking advantage of the mid-day break in the fog! ⛅🥾

02/04/2026

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Diane Juenemann’s passing. Diane was a beloved member of our Aspire family, and her presence left a lasting imprint on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. ❤️

Diane was, in every sense, a true fashionista. She loved to dress up, wore her accessories with pride, and embraced every holiday with flair. She enjoyed looking beautiful—her hair done, favorite jewelry on, nails freshly painted—and absolutely lit up when someone noticed. That joy, that sparkle, was unmistakably Diane.

Detail-oriented by nature, Diane took great pride in her home, keeping it tidy and welcoming, with the support of her staff. She was kind and sweet, with a smile that could melt your heart. Diane loved observing the world around her—children playing, dogs at the park, people coming and going—quietly taking in the stories unfolding before her.

At Horizon, she cherished the perfect vantage point from her bed, nestled beneath her pink comforter with all the pillows she could wish for. It was her throne, and she ruled it with quiet confidence.

This past weekend in the hospital, we painted her nails—four coats on each hand, as she kept smearing them and insisting they be fixed. By the end, her palms sparkled. Every visitor was greeted with hands proudly lifted for admiration. She was calm, content, and beautifully herself.

That’s how we want to remember Diane: at peace, ruling her kingdom, feeling beautiful and adored, everything just as she liked it. She lived her final years with comfort, dignity, and joy, and was truly at home at Horizon.

We take comfort knowing she is now at peace, reunited with her mom and dad—what a joyful reunion that must be. Please join us in holding her memory close. We are honored to have supported Diane throughout her life, especially those who worked closely with her and loved her deeply. 💗

02/03/2026

Troy and Nate from our Commercial Landscaping crew are excited to show off their new jackets as they get ready to maintain equipment and enhance their mechanical skills. 💪

01/29/2026

When he’s not enjoying country music or cheering on the Oregon Ducks, James is honing his basketball skills for the Special Olympics. Here he is getting some practice shots in before Special Olympics Oregon Special Olympics Oregon-Josephine County practice. 🏀

01/01/2026

Happy New Year from Southern Oregon Aspire! 🎉🥂

As we near the end of 2025, we are full of gratitude for the continued support of our community and for the opportunity to serve our individuals every day, helping them live the life they choose. 2025 was a special year, marking our 50th anniversary, and we look forward to all that 2026 has in store!

12/30/2025

Your generosity keeps essential services within reach.
Give a gift before 2026 👉 https://soaspire.org/forward/

Real change takes more than compassion—it takes resources, accessibility, and dedicated people. Join us in ensuring a more inclusive future.

12/25/2025

Merry Christmas! 🎄

We had a blast celebrating together at our annual Christmas party last week. It’s a day we always look forward to—a wonderful opportunity for our whole team and the individuals we support to come together. ❤️

May your day be filled with laughter and connection.

12/22/2025

When you find your voice, you help others find theirs.

Tracy has been part of Aspire since the beginning. With the right support, he found not only stability but purpose through creativity. The stage became his outlet.

While his journey to the stage was not an easy one, Tracy persevered with the help of a past employee and cinematographer, Josh Kennedy. Together, they made an inspiring short film to pave his path to local theater productions. Where Tracy reminded others that communication goes beyond words—it’s in expression, movement, and connection.

Today, Tracy continues to uplift those around him, proving that meeting needs is just the beginning—thriving is the goal.

Give a gift today 👉 soaspire.org/forward

Your support provides:
🏡 Accessible housing
🦽 Adaptive & mobility equipment
🚐 Accessible transportation
🎒 Supplies that support wellbeing

12/18/2025

Lights, Camera, Barry 🎬

Over a weekend trip in Astoria, Barry visited the Oregon Film Museum and spent time exploring exhibits that connect to his long-standing interest in theater and the performing arts.

While there, he and his housemate Jacob took part in an interactive exhibit that allowed visitors to film their own scenes. Barry chose to recreate a scene from The Goonies, which was filmed in Astoria. He enjoyed having the opportunity to make choices about the setting, equipment, and creative direction, and later shared how excited he was to show the footage to friends and family back home.

12/16/2025

Bobbie’s Trek Forward 🚶‍♀️‍➡️

Bobbie has faced a tough road with her health over the past few years. On a Kroner House trip to Crater Lake, she showed her staff just how far she’s come. What began as a simple restroom stop at Rogue River Gorge turned into an unexpected adventure when Bobbie pointed out a nearby trail and confidently led the group on a short hike, sharing the waterfalls and flowers along the way.

By day’s end, Bobbie had walked 7.5 miles total, something unimaginable just a year ago. As her health improves, so does her confidence and joy. Bobbie’s journey is a powerful reminder that with the right support and encouragement, people don’t just meet goals—they thrive.

Meeting needs is just the beginning—thriving is the goal.
Give a gift today 👉 soaspire.org/forward

Your support provides:
🏡 Accessible housing
🦽 Adaptive & mobility equipment
🚐 Accessible transportation
🎒 Supplies that support wellbeing