Jacob Hoffman knew his career wasn’t going where he had hoped and, in 2015, he decided to make a change. It didn’t take long before he found work at SOAR365, and it changed his life forever.

Today, Jacob is a Crew Leader on the Landscaping & Grounds Maintenance team at the Defense Supply Center Richmond (DSCR), also known as Bellwood. Jacob’s story shows how people with disabilities can build amazing careers when they get the right support.

Understanding Jacob’s Challenges
Before he joined SOAR365, Jacob worked for another company at Fort Lee. He cut grass and maintained outdoor spaces. But there was one big problem – he kept getting laid off from his job.

“They didn’t have any full-time jobs for me,” Jacob explains. “My first year, I got laid off. Then I went back and got let go again. I told myself, ‘Jacob, you need to find a job where you don’t get laid off.’”

A friend who worked at SOAR365 told Jacob about the organization. That friend promised that it was a great place to work, so Jacob decided to try it.

Providing Support
Jacob has autism and needs certain supports in his everyday life. This means he can do most things other people do, but some tasks are more difficult for him. Jacob is honest about his challenges, but he never lets them stop him from working hard or keeping a positive attitude.

“We have several supports in place for employees on the autism spectrum,” says Trey Steeley, Project Manager of Landscaping & Grounds Maintenance. “Whether its visual aids or giving extra time to complete tasks, we want to make sure everyone has what they need to succeed.”

Climbing the Ladder
When Jacob first got to SOAR365, he began working on the Janitorial & Custodial team. He cleaned buildings and always did excellent work. When a spot opened on the grounds crew, Jacob asked for the chance to do outdoor work. After all, he already knew how to mow grass from his previous job.

Becoming a team leader didn’t happen overnight. It took time, practice, and great mentors. And most importantly, Jacob’s supervisors taught him leadership skills.

“They taught me how to talk with coworkers in a calm way,” Jacob says. “They showed me teamwork and how to be there for my crew when they needed it.”

Patrick Farmer, a fellow crew leader and longtime teammate, saw Jacob’s growth firsthand.

“Jacob’s been awesome. In the beginning, he didn’t know the best ways to communicate and advocate for himself, but now he’s really opened up. He’s got a great sense of humor, and he’s become a real leader,” Patrick said.

Trey also helped guide Jacob’s path, even creating a special role to help him grow. “We developed a crew leader-in-training position just for him,” Trey said. “He already had the ability; he just needed the opportunity to show it.”

How Work Changed Jacob’s Life
Earning his way with SOAR365 has helped Jacob in all aspects of his life, not just at work.

“Since I became a crew leader, it’s helped me in the real world,” Jacob says. “I’m much better at talking and collaborating with other people.”

The confidence Jacob gained at work helps him everywhere. He can drive, pay bills, spend time with friends, and go shopping. These everyday activities feel easier because he believes in himself more.

Jacob also enjoys being someone other workers respect. “It feels great being a role model for others,” he adds with a smile.

Partnering with AbilityOne
Jacob’s story shows how the AbilityOne program, in partnership with SOAR365, can change lives. Many people with disabilities don’t always get a fair chance at work. But through AbilityOne, SOAR365 gives people the support they need to succeed.

Jacob now leads a team at the Defense Logistics Agency, but he didn’t start out that way. He says the support he got at SOAR365 helped him grow. “If this was a regular job, you probably wouldn’t get all the support from your boss like you do here,” Jacob explains.

Trey agrees. “We’re not just helping with tasks, we’re helping with life,” he says. “Jacob’s success shows what happens when we give people the tools to grow.”

“Anything is possible if you believe,” adds Patrick. “When you care about your job and your people, like we do, you become more than just an employee. You become part of a family.”

Jacob’s journey is exactly what the AbilityOne program was created to achieve. It proves that people with disabilities can do excellent work when they receive proper support.

The Bigger Picture
Jacob has important advice for other people with disabilities who want good careers. He believes SOAR365 cares more about people with disabilities than most other companies.

But Jacob’s most powerful message is this: “Disability doesn’t define who you are. You do.”

Jacob Hoffman’s journey from custodian to crew leader reminds us that with determination, support, and opportunity, anyone can achieve their dreams. His story continues to inspire others, and with teammates like Patrick and Trey by his side, the future is bright.