When Jeff Conley and Luke Esposito first crossed paths during SOAR365’s 2024 Leadership Workshop, all it took was one short conversation to create a new connection.
Originally from the Virginia Beach area, Jeff is a seasoned professional working as a Supplier Relations Advisor at the Federal Reserve Bank and serves as Secretary on SOAR365’s Board of Directors. His connection to SOAR365 is deeply personal thanks to his twin brother attending Camp Baker for many years, and the impact on his family left a lasting impression. “SOAR365 is a mission for me,” Jeff says. “I’ve seen what it means to a family to know that their loved one is supported, understood, and celebrated.”
Luke, a young professional in Richmond’s real estate industry, discovered SOAR365 through a friend, attended a Ladybug Fundraiser event, and soon joined the Next Generation Council (NGC) – a volunteer group of young adults ages 21-40 who are committed to supporting SOAR365’s mission. Now serving as NGC’s Engagement Chair, Luke is often the one helping others take their first step toward connection and service.
It was at the Leadership Workshop last year that Luke first heard Jeff speak about his career, his values, and the power of saying yes or no to the right things. The conversation immediately struck a chord.
Luke reached out to Jeff afterward, asking to meet in person. That one message led to a dinner, shared stories, and the beginning of a mentorship built on respect, curiosity, and common ground.
“I think one of the biggest things that stood out to me,” Luke shares, “was how natural it felt to ask questions and learn from someone further down the road. Jeff never made it about advice or instructions. He just listened, shared his honest opinions, and reminded me that I don’t have to have it all figured out to make an impact.”
For Jeff, the connection was equally powerful. “I don’t always think of myself as a mentor,” he says, “but when someone shows up with that level of interest and thoughtfulness, how can you not want to support them? That’s what SOAR365 does – it creates those spaces for growth and lifting each other up.”
The Power of Mentorship and Belonging
SOAR365’s Next Generation Council may be small, but its impact is big. Through events, volunteering, and community-building, NGC gives young professionals a place to grow alongside like-minded people who truly care.
Luke describes it as a network of people you might not meet otherwise. “We come from different careers, different backgrounds, but we’re connected by this shared drive to give back,” he says. “You don’t have to become best friends with everyone, you just have to be yourself. And that openness leads to real friendships, real support, and sometimes even a mentor who changes the way you see things.”
In a time when so many young adults feel disconnected or unsure of how to get involved, SOAR365 and the NGC offer a clear and welcoming path forward. Whether it’s through volunteering, professional development, or just sharing a conversation over coffee, these moments add up to something powerful.
As Jeff puts it, “We all want to feel like we’re making a difference. At SOAR365, you’re not just serving others, you’re growing too. And when you grow together, that’s where the real magic happens.”
Come Grow With Us
Want to meet people like Jeff and Luke? Looking to make an impact and meaningful connections along the way?
Join us for the Next Generation Council Leadership Workshop on Saturday, September 20 from 10 a.m. to Noon. It’s free, inspiring, and just might be the start of something life-changing.
Click here to learn more and RSVP today!