John Henry Soto’s journey is one of resilience, creativity, and selfless service. Growing up in New York City during the 70s and 80s, he experienced a chaotic upbringing, raised primarily by his grandparents. Volunteer work was ingrained in his childhood, but his perspective shifted dramatically when he experienced homelessness as a teenager.
Now based in Nashville, John is dedicated to giving back, working with organizations like the National Healthcare for the Homeless Council, The Way to Happiness, Volunteer Ministers, and the Foundation for a Drug-Free World. While he held media and technology roles at the Homeless Council, he also volunteered his time supporting disaster relief efforts and educating others about well-being and addiction prevention. “Who can I impact today?” is the question that drives his actions.
Beyond volunteerism, John’s passion for art has been a transformative force. Starting in music, he played in a band, recorded songs, and experienced both success and loss. A tragic event—losing a bandmate—led him to pivot to film. Despite initial fears, he pursued acting, eventually directing and producing his own work. His first short film, created with fellow actors, gained festival recognition and reinforced his belief that art should inspire rather than chase commercial success.
John also emphasizes the importance of validation, particularly in education. He recalls a pivotal moment in college when a professor recognized his writing talent, publishing his first piece in the school paper. That validation changed everything. “It’s important to let people know they’re doing a great job,” he says, advocating for encouragement in all areas of life, from teaching to leadership.
One of John’s most profound personal experiences with volunteer work came from a legal aid worker who fought tirelessly to help his family avoid eviction. “She didn’t have to go that hard for us,” he reflects. “But she did, and it gave my little brother hope. That moment broke me.”
At the core of John’s message is a belief in human connection. Despite the negativity often portrayed in the media, he insists, “There is more love in the world than hate.” He urges others to embrace volunteerism, not for personal gain but for the impact it has on others. Whether through acts of service or creative expression, John’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, kindness, and purpose.
Click here to listen to John’s episode of the Doing Good podcast. Doing Good is a 501c3 nonprofit. www.doinggood.tv
