A Story of Hope
Military and Veteran Services Spotlight: Jeff Soule
Jeff Soule is a valued member of our Military and Veteran Services Advisory Committee at Easterseals Redwood, as a Marine vet, supporting fellow veterans has been a constant driving force throughout his life.
Jeff enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves at age 18 and dedicated 25 years to military service. During his time in the Marines, Jeff managed a fleet of 64 helicopters during the Gulf War in Saudi Arabia. He retired in 2000 as Chief of Staff, E-8 Master Sergeant, Logistics, for the 4th Marine Corps Division HQ. Upon retirement, his passion for helping veterans navigate the challenging transition to civilian life, led him to join our Military Advisory Committee.
While serving in the reserves, Jeff began a 38-year career with UPS in 1978, leveraging his logistics experience as a full-time supervisor in New Orleans. The job led him to Lake Charles, LA, as a Gulf Coast Package Division Manager and he ended up in Cincinnati, holding various leadership roles, including Director of Air Sort Operations at CVG until his retirement in 2016. He went to Republic Services as a General Manager after UPS and wrapped up his corporate career in 2024. Today, Jeff runs his own consulting firm specializing in logistics and travel.
Jeff was introduced to Military and Veteran Services at Easterseals Redwood by friend Jim Neyer, and he was immediately drawn to our mission to assist veterans in need. He joined the MVS Board and became an active volunteer, starting with the “Our Serve” event at the Western & Southern Open tennis event, now the Cincinnati Open.
Jeff recognizes that not all veterans have a smooth path once they leave the military, and that they often have challenges transitioning to civilian life. “The structure of the military is gone—no one is telling them when to eat, when to sleep, or what to do. They can feel lost or overwhelmed,” he explains. Jeff is passionate about MVS’s mission to rebuild veterans’ confidence, provide training and mentorship, and help veterans not just survive, but thrive.
He also highlights the importance of mentorship. “Having someone who has gone through the transition themselves can make all the difference,” Jeff shares. “It’s a shock for many when they leave the military and having someone guide them—help them understand how to get a job, cook, and navigate civilian life—is huge.”
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Jeff is a dedicated community leader. He co-founded the Cincinnati Toolbank in 2011, helping to grow the organization from its humble beginnings with $50 in the bank to a thriving nonprofit. He continues to support veterans through the Honor Ride, raising thousands of dollars with his team.
Easterseals Redwood offers services to veterans and their families—regardless of discharge status—to improve the lives of those who served. With Jeff’s commitment and compassionate leadership, Jeff Soule continues to be a beacon of hope and guidance, ensuring no veteran is left behind.