Jacob Buck, 39
Founder & CEO | VolunQueer
Commissioner | Stonewall Sports SLC
Senior Engagement Specialist | Red Cross
What is one thing you’re most proud of accomplishing at work in the past year or in your overall career?
I’m most proud of founding Stonewall Sports SLC from the ground up. Building a nonprofit LGBTQIA+ sports league created a true home for people who needed community, and it’s one of the experiences that most inspired me to create VolunQueer so that even more people can find belonging through connection, service and shared purpose.
What principle or habit has most influenced your professional success?
Grit and tenacity — paired with a habit of follow-through. There have been plenty of moments when it would’ve been easier to throw my hands up, but I stay anchored in the truth that the missions of the Red Cross, Stonewall Sports and VolunQueer are bigger than me and that showing up consistently protects and uplifts real people.
