Dr. Soaries is the President and CEO of Corporate Community Connections, Inc., a company that assists corporations expand and improve their Corporate Social Responsibility efforts. His pastoral ministry focused on spiritual growth, educational excellence, economic empowerment, and faith-based community development.
Soaries earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Fordham University, a Master of Divinity Degree from Princeton Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry Degree from United Theological Seminary. Dr. Soaries resides in Sarasota, Florida with his wife, Donna.
Legacy of Leadership
1992
Founded to Rebuild and Empower
Founded the Central Jersey Community Development Corporation (“CJCDC”), a non-profit organization that specializes in helping revitalize underserved and vulnerable neighborhoods.
1992
1996
Harvest of Hope: A Home for Every Child
CJCDC launched Harvest of Hope Family Services Network, Inc. This organization developed permanent solutions for hundreds of foster children and parents.
1996
1999
Dr. Soaries Breaks Barriers in Public Service
Dr. Soaries served as New Jersey’s Secretary of State, making him the first and only African-American male to serve in that office.
1999
2002
Founded to Rebuild and Empower
Founded the Central Jersey Community Development Corporation (“CJCDC”), a non-profit organization that specializes in helping revitalize underserved and vulnerable neighborhoods.
2002
2005
Founder of the dfree® Financial Freedom Movement
Dr. Soaries launched the dfree® Financial Freedom Movement. The dfree® strategy teaches people how to become financially self-sufficient. His work in financial empowerment was featured in a CNN documentary.
2005
Trusted Partners
Key Achievements
Faith & Community Leadership
Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens for 30 years
Founder of Central Jersey Community Development Corporation (CJCDC)
Founder of Harvest of Hope Family Services Network
Inductee, Martin Luther King Jr. Board of Preachers, Morehouse College
Education
B.A. from Fordham University
Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary
Doctor of Ministry from United Theological Seminary
Corporate & Board Leadership
President & CEO, Corporate Community Connections, Inc.
Independent Director at Independence Realty Trust and Ocwen Financial Corporation
Former Director at the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York (16 years)
Trustee at RWJ Barnabas Health
Public Service
New Jersey Secretary of State (1999–2002) – first African-American male in the role
Former Chairman, U.S. Election Assistance Commission
Financial Literacy & Media
Founder of the dfree® Financial Freedom Movement (featured in a CNN documentary)
Host of weekly SiriusXM radio show “For Your Soul”
Author of 12 books, including Say Yes to No Debt and Say Yes When Life Says No
Connect With Us
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