YOUNG LEADERS PROGRAM
Finding Inspiration in Every Generation
Inherent in SOAR Together's mission of ending epidemic levels of loneliness and social isolation is a fundamental aim of helping support our next generation of inspired leaders who are already sparking positive social connections and increasing a sense of belonging in their communities. Through our Young Leaders Program, we help mentor, guide, and provide platforms for young adults to reach larger audiences, practice skills, and step into their shoes as creators, connectors, change agents, and entrepreneurs.
One is never too young or too old to take an idea and bring it to-life to benefit others while launching new and uplifting products and perspectives into the world. We know the cure for ending this epidemic of a lack of social engagement is to shine a light on those who helping us connect through their joy of creating shared goodness.
Meet SOAR's Young Leaders
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Nayuli Estevez Lara
Nayuli's Youth Mentoring and Community Engagement
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Nayuli Estevez Lara is a student at Bullard Havens Technical High school. She is passionate about helping young children in her church congregation and making a positive impact on their lives. She is an active member of her church community and participates in various church-related events such as concerts and fundraisers.
Nayuli is always eager to help others and be involved in her community. She is looking forward to being a young SOAR leader and assisting people in need of support and comfort. As a SOAR Young Leader, she has a desire to enhance the happiness of individuals throughout the various communities in Connecticut.
In Nayuli's words, "I have seen the joy Flower Power brings to those who participate in the program as well as the uplifting of SOAR's program at Homes For The Brave, and look forward to helping touch many more lives in my community along the way."
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Learn more about SOAR's Youth Flower Power
Adelle & Aidan Reed
Across the Ages Co-Creators & Community Connectors
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Adelle and Aidan Reed are Ridgefield High School students and sisters with a shared interest in strengthening community connections across generations. As co-creators of Across the Ages (ATA), they organize inclusive, welcoming events that bring together older adults with youth from the community.
Across the Ages is built on the idea that simple, consistent social interactions can have a meaningful impact in a person’s life, especially in an era when digital devices compete for our time with friends and family. Through ATA, Adelle and Aidan create spaces where people of different ages can connect through conversation and shared activities to reduce isolation and encourage a stronger sense of belonging. Their work reflects a commitment to service and community engagement. It’s a simple way to connect across generations and build community - one conversation at a time.
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In their free time, Adelle and Aidan enjoy traveling with their family, music, and spending time with friends. They look forward to continuing to grow ATA and supporting opportunities for positive social connections in their community and beyond.
Cathryn Mills
Cathryn's Chatty Benches and Peer Engagement
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Cathryn is a student at Ridgefield High School. She is a member of scout Troop 19, National Charity League, and Lion’s Heart. Cathryn enjoys volunteering with many organizations in the CT area, especially SOAR together. Cathryn loves SOAR together because of the people she is able to meet and seeing the way simple acts of kindness can improve people’s lives.
Cathryn came to SOAR through the Flower Power program, and will be helping bring more Chatty Benches to communities in her area through her final Eagle Scouts project through which she will design, build, and supervise their painting.
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In Cathryn's words, "I have seen the impact of gifted flowers to teammates of mine who shared it was the first time they had ever received flowers, and knowing I can be part of a program that helps actively promote mental wellness and love is incredibly meaningful to me."
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Learn more about SOAR's Let's Chat Collaborative
Ryason Wanat
Ryason's Plant Rescue & Mental Health Leadership
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Ryason Wanat is a senior at Joel Barlow High School in Redding, CT, with a lifelong love for houseplants. Growing up surrounded by plants, she developed an appreciation for caring for them from a young age. Over the years, that early interest has grown into a hobby she truly enjoys. She finds caring for plants both relaxing and rewarding, and loves watching them thrive through patience and consistent care.
As a member of my Barlow's Youth Mental Health First Aid Club, Ryason also works with other students to raise awareness about mental health and reduce the stigma surrounding it. Through education, we encourage open conversations so that more people feel comfortable seeking help.
Outside of her passion for plants, Ryason is a competitive cheerleader with Xtreme Cheer. She also enjoys coaching younger athletes and babysitting for local families, giving her the opportunity to encourage confidence and build meaningful connections with others.
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Charley Tanana & Kelly Fitzpatrick
Young Artists Project Co-Creators
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Charley Tanana and Kelly Fitzpatrick, Ridgefield High School students, share a passion for theatre, music, and helping others. Charley is an honors student who participates in stage crew, arts and crafts club, and golf team! Kelly is also an honors student who participates in stage crew/management for the theater department, as well as unified theater and the rugby team! As co-creators of The Young Artists Project, they are dedicated to fostering a sense of community and belonging among children through shared interests in art and theatre.
The Young Artists Project demonstrates the belief that the arts have the power to unite people. Through this program, Charley and Kelly organize various youth activities that encourage children to engage in creative pursuits, such as making art or participating in theatre programs. These activities aim to uplift and inspire individuals within their community, reflecting their commitment to promoting happiness, uplifting social connections, and the positive impact of art.