Meet Marlo Jolley

We had the good fortune of connecting with Marlo Jolley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marlo, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Honestly, it wasn’t some big, strategic plan at first — it came from the heart. I saw a need, and I couldn’t ignore it. I’ve always had a soft spot for people who feel left out or overlooked, especially adults with special needs.

During the pandemic, it really hit me — so many people were craving connection, and there weren’t enough places offering it in non-therapeutic way for the over 18 community. So I hosted a small zoom meeting and I didn’t know quickly it would grow. I just knew I had to try.
The Mingle Club started forming itself as we grew I always had one thought: If I can help even one person feel less alone, it’s worth it.

That mindset turned into a mission, and eventually a movement. What once started as a side project turned into my full-time passion. And now, I can’t imagine my life without this group.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a pediatric occupational therapist with 11 years of experience in many settings. I have worked in schools, daycares, home health and in the community. My biggest accomplishment to date is starting The Mingle Club. It allowed me to really help the community I care about so much.

What started as a simple desire to help people feel less alone has grown into something much bigger than I ever imagined. I’m the founder and president of The Mingle Club, Inc., a nonprofit social club created especially for adults with special needs. We offer inclusive, welcoming spaces — both on Zoom and in person — where members can build meaningful friendships, practice social skills, and simply have fun in a supportive environment.

This mission is personal. I see the challenges and the isolation that can come with being different — and the deep need we all have to feel connected, seen, and celebrated. I didn’t have a perfect roadmap for how to build this. It’s been full of growth, challenges, and emotional moments. But I’ve always been guided by my heart and had the desire to create something meaningful for this community.

What sets The Mingle Club apart is how intentional it is. From our weekly themed events , our in person meetups in the community and positive vibes — everything is designed to make people feel safe, valued, and connected . We don’t just host meetups; we create a movement based on kindness, fun, and belonging.

I’m most proud of the real friendships that have been built not only between our members, but also the parents and caretakers. The growth I see in our members, and the families who finally feel like they’ve found a place to belong. The biggest lesson I’ve learned? When you lead with authenticity and heart, the right people show up — and real magic happens.

What do I want the world to know? That The Mingle Club isn’t just a club. It’s a place to be yourself, to make friends, and to feel at home — no matter who you are.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love Wynwood , the Design District , Las Olas, and all of our beautiful beaches.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

First and foremost, my true inspiration for the Mingle club was my two long-term clients, Jessie and Gabe, who were aging out of the traditional occupational therapy world, I wondered what will they do to socialize and how will they make friends as adults? Then Covid hit and they were isolated, and that is really where the Mingle club originated.

I also have to give a huge shoutout to my mom and my sister. My sister had cerebral palsy and my mom is her caretaker.Growing up with her gave me a deep understanding of what it means to live with a disability — not just physically, but socially and emotionally. Being around my sister’s schools and activities really impacted me and watching my mother dedicate her life to being a full time caregiver has really shaped me as person who wants to give back to the community.

And of course, The Mingle Club community — my members, their families, and our supporters — you all inspire me every single day. You are the reason this club exists. The joy, resilience, and connection you bring to each meeting and meetup is the heartbeat of this whole mission.

So this shoutout is for all of you. You’ve helped shape me, guide me, and fuel the purpose behind The Mingle Club. Thank you for believing in the power of connection.

Website: https://Themingleclub.org

Instagram: the_mingle_club

Facebook: Themingleclub

Other: TikTok
themingleclub143

Image Credits
The Mingle club Instagram