About Us
EMPOWERING adults with special needs!!!
Illuminate Heart Inc., is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that was established in 2012 by four teachers who love to work with adults with special needs. We have the dream of sharing our love and happiness with young people with special abilities. Recognizing that there is a need for these young adults after they graduate from high school, we decided to create an alternative to provide care and social activities to make their lives happy and productive. With God in control, we serve and support this special community. We are a public charity, who succeeds because of kind-hearted people like you that contribute through your support and sponsorship. We are grateful to have you as part of our dream come true!
Currently we offer our services twice a week on Mondays (9:00-3:00) and Fridays (9:00-3:00) in collaboration with the city of Pembroke Pines at the Carl Schecter Focal Point Community Center 301 NW 103th Ave. Pembroke Pines, FL, 33026.
Our Board and Supporters
Our Board
FOUNDER & PRESIDENT
Ms. Chase has a Bachelor Degree in Mass Communication and Journalism. She has more than ten years working with students with disabilities at Charles W. Flanagan High School located in Pembroke Pines, Florida. She is also a volunteer for the non-profit organization Best Buddies of South Florida.
FOUNDER, VICE PRESIDENT & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Mrs. Lochard has a Bachelor Degree in Elementary Education and a Master Degree in Special Education. She is a versatile and dedicated child advocate with more than thirty years of experience working with student with developmental disabilities. She has worked as a special education teacher for the Department of Education of Puerto Rico and for Broward County Schools. Mrs. Lochard has the Puerto Rico and the State of Florida Professional Special Education Teacher Certification.
FOUNDER & SECRETARY
Professional with more than thirty years of experience in Teaching, Composing, Arranging, Management, Founder, President and Director of Musica sin Barreras, non-profit organization with an inclusion music program located in Puerto Rico. Mr. Lochard has a Bachelor Degree in Music Education/ Flute and Music Composition from the Conservatory of Music of Puerto Rico.
FOUNDER & TREASURER
Mrs. Ardila has more than ten years working with students with Developmental Disabilities at Charles W. Flanagan High School in Pembroke Pines, Florida. She has the PASS program certification from Broward County Schools which enables her to train students with disabilities in the development of their social and vocational skills. Mrs. Ardila has an Associate in Arts Degree in Tourism, Marketing and Business Administration.
Student's Representative
Graduated from Charles W. Flanagan HS
Presently attending Broward College, pursuing a Communications Degree.
Best Buddies Ambassador since 2014.
Illuminate Heart, Inc.