A Legacy of Service, A Vision for the Future

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Joceline “Jocie” Ortiz serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Puerto Rican Action Committee of Southern New Jersey (PRAC), bringing years of experience in nonprofit leadership, social services, community outreach, workforce development, advocacy, and cultural engagement.

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Joceline’s journey with PRAC reflects her deep commitment to the organization’s mission and the communities it serves. Throughout her time with the organization, she has served in several leadership and community-focused roles, including Chief Operating Officer and Director of the Hispanic Women’s Resource Center (HWRC). Her experience working directly alongside individuals and families continues to shape the way she leads PRAC today.

 

An important part of Joceline’s work has been advocating for women’s health and reducing barriers to care. She led breast cancer awareness and education initiatives focused on reaching underserved and uninsured women throughout the community. Through outreach, education, and connection to community resources, Joceline helped women access free mammograms and essential breast health services while educating individuals and families about the importance of early detection and connecting them with appropriate resources and support. Her work also included coordinating community breast cancer awareness 5K walks, bringing individuals, families, survivors, and supporters together to raise awareness, encourage prevention and early detection, and demonstrate support for those impacted by breast cancer.

 

As Director of the Hispanic Women’s Resource Center, Joceline continued her passion for empowering women and families by strengthening access to education, employment, supportive services, and opportunities for greater self-sufficiency.

 

Joceline has also played an active role in PRAC’s efforts to celebrate and preserve Hispanic and Latino culture throughout Southern New Jersey. She assisted with Festival Playero, a major Hispanic and Latino cultural music event in Wildwood that brought nationally recognized entertainment and the community together through music and culture. She has also helped coordinate smaller cultural events in partnership with local government and community partners, bringing music, comedy, entertainment, and cultural experiences to local families. For Joceline, these events are about more than entertainment—they create opportunities for generations to come together, celebrate their heritage, and remain connected to their cultural roots.

 

As CEO, Joceline oversees PRAC’s programs, operations, partnerships, and strategic direction across Southern New Jersey. She is committed to strengthening the organization’s long-term sustainability while ensuring PRAC remains responsive to the evolving needs of the individuals and families it serves. Her leadership is rooted in collaboration, accountability, compassion, and a belief that strong community partnerships are essential to creating lasting impact.

 

Outside of her work at PRAC, Joceline has a strong passion for health, fitness, and personal training. As a personal trainer, she enjoys helping others build confidence, discover their strength, and challenge themselves both physically and mentally. Her passion for empowering others extends beyond the gym and is reflected in her approach to leadership, service, and community.

 

For Joceline, leading PRAC is more than a professional role it represents an opportunity to honor the organization’s more than five decades of service while building upon its legacy and helping shape its next chapter of impact, cultural pride, empowerment, and community.