One of the most valuable benefits of San Luis Obispo Chamber membership is a program that helps employers attract, welcome and retain the talent they need to succeed. This is SOAR, or SLO Onboarding Assistance Resources, a unique program that helps your out-of-area new hires and their families establish meaningful roots in San Luis Obispo.
You get to send one out-of-area new hire through the SOAR program every calendar year, as part of your membership. This personalized onboarding experience is designed to help relocating employees build strong community connections that boost retention, enhance recruitment efforts and ensure newcomers have the support they need to see SLO as their long-term home.
A Year of Impact: SOAR in 2025
In 2025, the SOAR program made a measurable difference for both employers and their newest team members. Throughout the year, 145 participants received hands-on, customized support as they transitioned to life in San Luis Obispo. These services are built around:
- Personalized Relocation Support: From housing to schools, we help your relocating employee find the right home that fits their needs.
- Community Connections: SOAR gives your new hire the resources to meet people and build relationships through social and networking events.
- Local Expert Concierge: Our SOAR lead is an expert in all things SLO and community connection and will support your employees as they acclimate to our region.
- Partner Career Networking: Share the resume of your new hire’s partner who is looking for work in SLO to local businesses.
Why SOAR Matters for Your Business
Employees who relocate are making big life decisions while navigating major transitions and adjusting to a new community, especially one as unique as SLO County, which can feel overwhelming. SOAR helps ease that stress by giving new hires and their families the guidance, confidence and personal connection they need to feel at home from day one. For employers, this support leads to better retention because newcomers feel grounded and supported, stronger recruitment thanks to a relocation experience that goes far beyond logistics, and greater employee satisfaction rooted in feeling genuinely welcomed into their new community.
One example and success story of SOAR’s impact comes from Diana and Gonzalo, who relocated from Spain to begin new careers at Cal Poly. From thousands of miles away, they face the challenge of securing housing without ever setting foot in the area. Through SOAR’s personalized relocation support, they were able to secure a home before arriving. They landed in SLO with peace of mind, knowing their family had a place that truly fit their needs. Their experience reflects SOAR’s commitment to ensuring newcomers feel at home before they even arrive.
SOAR delivers tangible value by helping employers build and retain a strong workforce while helping new community members create a fulfilling life in San Luis Obispo.
Learn How SOAR Can Support Your Business
If you would like to explore whether SOAR is a fit for an upcoming hire or want to learn more about how to use your membership benefit, reach out to [email protected]. This program is here to help you and your new team members succeed.