JARC Florida

Disabilities Nonprofit

If Debby Thomas is having a challenging day, all she needs to do is head to JARC to teach a class — and her mood will turn around. “Being with JARC residents instantly changes any mood,” she says. “They put life into perspective.”

Thomas has taught aerobic, fitness, nutrition and life coaching classes at JARC’s Boca Raton campus for 27 years. The nonprofit, nonsectarian organization serves nearly 200 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in its group homes and independent living arrangements in Boca Raton and Delray Beach. They also offer apartments for those who don’t need 24-hour supervision. JARC hosts job training programs and helps these adults get jobs within the community to help give them a sense of independence, purpose and empowerment. JARC was created in the mid-1980s to respond to the needs of families with adult children who have developmental disabilities. “This organization provides a place for them to belong,” says Thomas. “It gives them friends, activities, love and acceptance.”

Thomas holds her fitness classes indoors and outdoors and uses repetitive moves to promote memory skills. She says that some adults watch her, clapping and listening. Others participate so actively that they notice if she missed a move like marching in place. “It’s amazing what they retain and remember,” says Thomas. “But I don’t care what they do. I just want them to be there and present. I love connecting with them and seeing them smile.”

Through her work, Thomas has learned the value of patience and listening. “They want to feel heard and loved,” says Thomas. But she wouldn’t have it any other way. “It’s my love, my passion,” says the married mother of two grown children and four grandchildren who lives in Parkland. “It’s what I was put on this earth for. I’m doing exactly what I’m supposed to be doing.”

She says that some people have told her that they’re uncomfortable being around those with special needs. “It’s hard for me to wrap my brain around it. I think people need to understand how important it is to recognize people with special needs and how much they deserve respect and acknowledgement.”

JARC Florida, 21160 95th Ave. South, Boca Raton, 561- 558-2550, jarcfl.org

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