Nebraska

Nebraska SOAR State Team

State Team Lead(s):

• Niki Tuzicka
  Email: dhhs.homelessassistance@nebraska.gov
  Phone: 402-314-4649

TA Center Liaison:

• Amanda Starkey
  Email: astarkey@prainc.com
  Phone: (518) 439-7415 x5251

SOARing in Nebraska

The SOAR effort in Nebraska is a statewide initiative. The goal is to increase access to the disability income benefit administered by the Social Security Administration for eligible adults who are homeless, or who are at risk of homelessness, and have a mental illness and/or a co-occurring substance use disorder.  

Expectations of Participation in SOAR

In order to be eligible to submit SOAR applications in Nebraska, all providers need to complete the SOAR Online Course. Prior to commencing the on-line curriculum, it is recommended that individuals first contact the local lead agency within their region, thereby allowing them to become integrated into the SOAR team efforts within the region they reside. 

• No cost;
• In-depth, provides step-by-step details of SSA’s disability determination process and SSI/SSDI application forms;
• Learn at your own pace;
• Templates for materials needs to set up administering the SOAR service
• Opportunity to do a practice case with technical assistance and feedback from the SOAR TA Center
• 20 CEUs from NASW upon successful completion.

Expectations of SOAR-trained Caseworkers

• Honor the requirement of submitting/assisting with a minimum of four SOAR claims per year using the full SOAR model;
• Track outcomes of applications (# of applications submitted, decisions, time periods, etc.) for all adults served under this initiative;
• Not charge a fee for services when filling SSI/SSDI applications under SOAR:
• Actively assist eligible applicants, apply for SSI or SSDI, maintain contact, and act as their representative.