Dr. DeForest B. Soaries: Faith, Finance, and the Blueprint for Community Transformation

At the intersection of faith, financial empowerment, and public service stands Dr. DeForest B. Soaries—a visionary leader whose work continues to reshape communities across New Jersey and beyond.

From pastor to public servant, author to financial literacy pioneer, Dr. Soaries has worn many hats throughout his career. But as he puts it, “the key to wearing many hats is to make sure you only have one head”—a guiding purpose that drives every role he takes on.

For Dr. Soaries, that purpose is clear: to make a lasting, meaningful impact on people’s lives. Inspired by the emotional influence Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had on his grandmother, he has dedicated his life to adding value to others in tangible, transformative ways.

A Legacy Rooted in Impact

When asked how he wants to be remembered, Dr. Soaries keeps it grounded and human.

He hopes his legacy reflects a life of solving real problems—helping others in ways that create measurable change. But beyond accolades and accomplishments, he values something deeper: being remembered as a devoted husband and father.

It’s this duality—impact and intimacy—that defines his leadership style.

The dfree® Movement: Redefining Financial Freedom

One of Dr. Soaries’ most powerful contributions is the creation of the dfree® movement, a financial empowerment initiative rooted in both economic and spiritual principles.

The inspiration came directly from his role as a pastor. He recognized that while spiritual guidance was essential, his community also needed practical tools to overcome financial hardship.

Rather than separating faith and finances, he merged them.

He emphasizes that financial discipline—saving, investing, avoiding debt—is deeply connected to spiritual maturity. Practices like delayed gratification and generosity are not just financial habits; they are spiritual disciplines.

This philosophy has fueled life-changing results.

One standout success story? A family of four who eliminated $287,000 in consumer debt within two years after completing the dfree® program—effectively increasing their wealth by the same amount.

Financial Advice for the Next Generation

In today’s economy—marked by rising rent, student loans, and inflation—Dr. Soaries offers a clear starting point for young people:

Eliminate consumer debt.

He stresses that wealth is not determined by income, but by net worth—what you own minus what you owe. This shift from income-based thinking to wealth-based thinking is the true first step toward financial freedom.

As he puts it, freedom begins in the mind before it manifests in reality.

Faith as Fuel for Leadership

Dr. Soaries’ faith is not just a belief system—it’s his foundation.

The work he does—encouraging people to confront financial challenges and believe in change—is not easy. It requires persistence, resilience, and deep internal strength.

His faith provides exactly that.

It also inspired his series, “Say Yes When Life Says No,” a platform for conversations about overcoming adversity, embracing purpose, and navigating life’s unexpected challenges. The series serves as both a roadmap and a reminder: rejection and hardship often lead to deeper opportunities.

Bridging Faith, Government, and Community

Having served as New Jersey’s Secretary of State, Dr. Soaries brings a unique perspective on how systems can work together to create impact.

He believes that faith institutions, government, and community organizations must collaborate—not operate in silos.

Each sector holds resources the others need. When they align, communities thrive. When they don’t, progress stalls.

This philosophy is especially relevant in areas like financial literacy, where he sees a major gap in public education.

While policies exist, he notes that many educators lack the confidence or training to teach personal finance effectively. The solution? Equip teachers with better tools and shift curricula toward facilitation rather than traditional instruction.

Lessons from Adversity

Even the most accomplished leaders face moments of doubt.

For Dr. Soaries, one of the greatest tests of his faith came during the construction of a new church—when he was suddenly faced with a $5 million funding gap.

It was a moment that nearly broke him.

But through the support of his wife and trusted advisors, he found the strength to push forward. Their belief in him reignited his own faith—reminding him that leadership is never a solo journey.

The Power of Discipline and Vision

With so many initiatives under his leadership, staying grounded is essential.

Dr. Soaries relies on a structured approach: written five-year goals across five key areas—

• Financial

• Spiritual

• Professional

• Intellectual

• Personal
  

These goals act as a compass, guiding his time, energy, and decisions.

Mentorship and Influence

Behind every great leader is a foundation of mentorship.

For Dr. Soaries, that foundation was built by his father, DeForest B. Soaries Sr., whose lessons continue to shape his life even after his passing.

He also credits Dr. Samuel D. Proctor, former pastor of Abyssinian Baptist Church, as a major influence on his journey.

What’s Next for dfree®?

As dfree® continues to grow, its mission remains focused on closing financial gaps—particularly in communities of color.

The organization recently celebrated its 20th anniversary with the release of the second edition of “Say Yes to No Debt” and the launch of a new digital platform designed to expand its reach and impact.

A Jersey Changemaker

Despite his global influence, Dr. Soaries remains deeply rooted in New Jersey.

Being recognized as a “Jersey changemaker” is an honor he doesn’t take lightly—it’s a reflection of the state that shaped him and continues to serve as the foundation of his work.

Final Words for the Community

If there’s one message Dr. Soaries wants every reader to remember, it’s simple yet powerful:

Stay informed. Stay active. Don’t let the future catch you by surprise.