In what almost seems like kismet, Danielle Arfin happily finds herself the executive coordinator for the Delray Beach CRA. She’s two years in, and not planning on stopping anytime soon.
A New York transplant, Arfin attended Florida Atlantic University in 2010 and stayed to complete her master’s degree in public administration. During that time, she had some internship experience with the City of Delray Beach and made the decision that she was going to work for the City after graduation.
She went a bit rogue with her job search at the time and instead of applying online and being just another resume, she hit the street and applied to different organizations and government-affiliated agencies throughout Downtown Delray Beach in person. When someone at the Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce pointed her to the CRA, she walked right over and handed her resume to the administrative assistant at the time, who happened to tell her she was retiring. Shortly thereafter, she accepted an invitation to apply for the job and got it. After leaving for a different position for a short period of time, she made her way back to take on the role of executive coordinator.
“The best part about my job is knowing that I am working beside amazing people who really care about making a difference in the community that we serve,” said Arfin, 29. “Being able to contribute to serving the public is very rewarding for me especially when we get to celebrate the success of various projects together with the community and to see the progress that is being made every day.”
The two main components of her role as executive coordinator are to assist the executive director (and other staff members, as needed) with administrative tasks, as well as to serve as board liaison. Her tasks can range from scheduling meetings, preparing the agenda packet for monthly board meetings, and participating in board meetings by performing functions in line with the city clerk.
She’s worked for the CRA for about two years now and has seen firsthand how much transformation and revitalization that has transpired over that time. She not only feels that Delray is a hotspot with a ton of activity for residents and visitors, but that the growing partnerships between government, businesses and residents of the community create a vibrant and connected community.
“I think what makes Delray unique is that it has a little bit of everything,” said Arfin, mom to Blake, a 10-year-old oversized Yorkie. “The beautiful beaches and dining on the East end are only a few blocks away from the vibrant Downtown, which has become a go-to spot for people from all over and of all ages. With all there is to offer residents and visitors, it still has a small-town feel to it.”
She believes that the future of Delray is bright with the help of the CRA because the agency is stacked with dedicated and passionate professionals who are committed to serving the residents.
When she’s not working, she’s spending time with Blake, enjoying the outdoors, and practicing yoga and barre.
