Nikki Joffe
Disabilities Nonprofit
Nikki Joffe, a board member at the nonprofit JARC Florida, is often told that her sister is lucky to have her. Joffe disagrees. “I’m lucky to have her,” she says of Hayley, who is enrolled in JARC’s day program. “She gave my life direction.”
JARC is a nonprofit, nonsectarian organization that provides programs and services to educate and empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Joffe has been involved for 13 years with JARC and been on the board for three years. She learned about JARC when Hayley, who has Down syndrome, aged out of programs.
“She is thriving at JARC,” she says of Hayley, who is a chef at both JARC’s Café 95 and Addison Country Club. “She is doing what she always wanted to do.”
Joffe always wanted to meet “special siblings” like herself, so, she founded the Siblings Society group at JARC.
“As a sibling, I am always hoping to connect with other siblings to share experiences and ideas.” This group has positively impacted her life. “I have made new friends that understand the nuances of being a special sibling and together we are finding ways to give back to JARC through events and our volunteer efforts.”
As a board member, she also launched Cocktails for JARC in Florida and New York City. The annual evening event benefitting JARC sells out months in advance.
The Lake Worth resident who hails from South Africa works remotely for Microsoft as a program manager-risk and compliance governance. The company has been supportive of her volunteering efforts, matching every hour of her volunteer time with a $25 donation.
She can always be counted on to be an ambassador for JARC in the community. “Come and take a tour,” she says. “The love and positive energy that transcend the building is infectious. It changed the trajectory of my family’s life.”
A special feeling overcomes her at the JARC campus. “You feel an energy when you walk into those doors. It’s of love and hope. Your cup will fill.”
JARC Florida, 21160 95th Ave. South, Boca Raton, 561-558-2550, jarcfl.org
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