Duo finds passion in supporting others

In the picture from left to right: Ivette Dominguez (CUA), Lizzy Hiciano (Jar of HeARTS), Arlene Bouza-Jou (PROS), Gisel Prado (PROS) and Eric Hansen (PROS). 

Extraordinary things happen when passionate people collaborate together. That’s exactly what happens when Arlene Bouza-Jou and Ivette Dominguez work together. Bouza-Jou is a manager in the area of therapeutic recreation and inclusion at Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces (PROS). Dominguez is a projects officer with the Department of Cultural Affairs.

Spending time with them is energizing. They really enjoy what they do and are always thinking creatively to develop activities and programs to support people of all abilities in our community.

“We found each other and work together so well. Arlene has monster planning skills," said Dominguez, who joined the County four years ago. 

Bouza-Jou, who joined the County almost 34 years ago as a part-timer, after being a volunteer for a few years, said, “We are connected by our hearts. What we do, truly makes us happy. Through our partnership, we help others. Through our teamwork, these programs make a difference, even changes lives.”

This dynamic duo describe watching families participate and enjoy time together in a safe, judgement-free environment. They can be loud, act silly, try new things and be comfortable. Year-round they have a variety of different opportunities where everyone gets the attention they need.

“We sometimes call our larger events a good time for calm-chaos,” Dominguez adds. “Every year, we try to bring new options and increase accessibility.”

“Focus is on the people who need us,” Dominguez said. “To see participants try new things and enjoy new sensations together can be powerful.”

Their collaboration benefits from the involvement of many others. Both are quick to mention sponsors who are generous and return every year with a giving spirit like the Infinite Horizons Learning Center, Roxy Theatre Group and Performing Arts Center, the Leisure Access Foundation and others. They are also grateful for the recreation therapy student volunteers from Florida International University and professionals like Lizzy Hiciano from the Jar of HeARTS Foundation who facilitated the adapted the art activity pictured. 

Dominguez says she fell into the job, but could not imagine doing anything else more fulfilling. She enjoys the beach, gardening and all the wonderful cultural events available in our community. Dominguez is also active in the community in her spare time and is a mom to two children with special needs.

“My work is extremely rewarding,” Dominguez shared. “I feel it’s a blessing to get paid doing what you love.”

Bouza-Jou described growing up in the church and starting a career in phycology before volunteering at a leisure center and discovering her true calling. She says she is a life-long learner too. Time with family and in and near the water help her recharge and stay balanced. 

“I so enjoy and appreciate the people I work with and work for in our community,” Bouza-Jou shared. “This is more than a job for me.”

When Dominguez and Bouza-Jou collaborate, our community thrives.

Learn more about the All Kids Included Program and the Therapeutic Recreation & Inclusion Program.