JARC Florida

For Debbie Weisman, Volunteering Is All In The Family

Philanthropy has always been a big part of Debbie Weisman’s life. From her childhood in Boston to her nearly 30 years living in Boca Raton, she has always felt the need to give back. So, when her father, Peter Levine, began volunteering with JARC Florida, it was only natural for her to follow in his footsteps.

Weisman, the former owner of half a dozen clothing boutiques, used to hold Shop for a Cause events to benefit various charities. When she sold the boutiques and retired from retail, she focused her passion for giving back on JARC.

“I feel very fortunate,” she says. “This community gave so much to me and my children, so it only made sense that, when the time was right, I would do with my time what I thought was best and most necessary. And I found that with JARC.”

JARC serves people with developmental and intellectual disabilities through a network of 10 residential homes and one apartment complex in Boca Raton and Delray Beach. There’s also a living and learning center for vocational training as well as social and recreational programs.

For the last three years, Weisman and her mother, Elizabeth Levine, have co-chaired JARC’s annual gala. This year’s event, held in March, had more than 600 attendees – the largest number to date. The events are themed in ways that related to clients, with this year’s being JARCOPOLY, a play on the board game.

“There are many charity events in Boca, and they are all great, but this one has you smiling from ear-to-ear,” says Weisman. “You can also see where the dollars are going. Last year, we raised money for vans; this year, it is for workforce expansion.”

JARC offers a variety of programs that train clients for jobs, and it helps them secure jobs within the community. This gives them a sense of independence and purpose.

“These are individuals who have always lived with adversity, and they need to be given the same chance as everyone else to make the best of their lives,” says Weisman. “I am proud that my parents chose this charity to be involved with.”

JARC Florida is located at 21160 95th Ave. S., Boca Raton. For more information, call 561-558-2550 or visit jarcfl.org.

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