Tucked away on Meeting Street, Jeff and Jessica Gora have woven a vibrant tapestry of creativity, adventure, and faith that impacts everyone around them in a positive way. Their story is one of shared passions, entrepreneurial spirit, and a deep commitment to family, faith, and community. 

Jeff studied Geographic Information Science, Cartography, and Business at the University of Kentucky. The combination of these disciplines blended seamlessly to shape his strategic, design-oriented approach to problem-solving. Today, Jeff works from home running his own business as an executive consultant, focusing on innovation and strategic alignment. In addition, he serves as an Entrepreneur in Residence at the University of Louisville, mentoring other young entrepreneurs and startups.

Jessica’s path led her to leave Western Kentucky University in favor of a dental program in Lexington where she earned her credentials as a Certified Dental Technician. Her career choice would eventually lead her to Jeff. The couple met while both working in the dental medical device industry and bonded over a shared love of creativity, craftsmanship, and community—values that continue to shape everything they build together, in business and in life.

The Gora family has called Norton Commons home for several years. They cherish the walkable lifestyle, creative energy, strong sense of community, and family-friendly atmosphere in which to raise their daughters KatieAnn and Mollie. KatieAnn, an 8th grader at Christian Academy, is a violinist and an avid reader. She enjoys curling up with a good book, spending time with friends, and has developed quite an interest in aviation. As Mollie approaches her first birthday, she enjoys exploring her world and soaking up her grandparents’ attention. 

Each member of the Gora family brings something special to their dynamic. Jeff’s leadership provides a solid foundation and sense of direction, Jessica’s creativity and attention to detail make everything and everyone feel special and welcomed. Mollie keeps everyone smiling and, on their toes, and KatieAnn brings curiosity and kindness to the family; she is always learning and willing to lend a hand. Even Willow, the family’s 3 ½ year-old Golden Retriever, plays a role with her charm and energy.

Shared passions strengthen the bonds within the family. Among them are interests in travel and aviation, a strong faith, and entrepreneurship. Travel is a cherished part of family life, and the Goras relish the experiences it brings. Work often takes Jeff to Europe, while Oshkosh’s EAA AirVenture air show is an annual favorite, and visiting NYC during the Christmas season is simply magical. Other memorable travel moments include a surprise trip to NASA, and Jeff’s proposal to Jessica in Washington, D.C. with KatieAnn keeping the secret under wraps until the big reveal.

A love for aviation is another commonality within the Gora family. What began as a bucket-list goal of Jeff’s, to become a pilot, has grown from a hobby into a calling and has sparked KatieAnn’s interest in aeronautics. Jeff continues to invest his time in flying and encouraging KatieAnn’s curiosity. Last summer, the two volunteered with Flight Club, helping to build a Carbon Cub aircraft.

Jeff shares that he also “volunteers as an advocate for Mission Aviation Fellowship, and the family feels a growing call toward mission aviation—combining the love of flying with service and humanitarian work.” With faith at the center of the Gora family values, it is a driving force in how they live their lives. As such, they are also active members of Southeast Christian Church (Blankenbaker campus), supporting local and global outreach programs.

Community involvement at home is just as important to the Goras as supporting causes around the world; it provides opportunities to connect right where you are. In that spirit, and in the tradition of Jeff’s great-great-grandparents who once owned a small-town shop, Jeff and Jessica founded HARELDS, a men’s clothing and lifestyle boutique in NoCo’s South Village. Though they opted to close in 2025 after two years, the experience gave them a deep appreciation and a sense of pride in being local business owners. Jessica and Jeff fondly reflect that “Opening HARELDS remains one of our favorite memories. It helped the family connect with neighbors and experience the community from a new perspective.”

Living in Norton Commons feels, as Jeff describes it, “like walking through Disney early in the morning or at dusk…peaceful, beautifully designed, and full of life.” They love the fountains, green spaces, and the vibrant weekend atmosphere. They enjoy being out in the community around their friends and neighbors walking to Alchemy, Gustavo’s, or Crust & Crumb for their weekly stash of coffee beans. The Gora family thrives on the energy of Norton Commons, regularly attending various festivals and events around the neighborhood such as Food Truck Fridays, which has become a family favorite throughout the summer months.

As they move into their next chapter, the Gora family remains grounded in faith and purpose as they continue their mission to enhance the lives of others through community involvement near and far. Whether in the air or on the ground, the Gora family will continue to find creative ways to serve others with open hands and open hearts, ready to go wherever they may be called. Their story is a testament to the power of creativity, community, and service—a model for families everywhere seeking to build a life of meaning and adventure.