Meet Josette Rofer | Mother, philanthropist

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

Hi Josette, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
I am most inspired by an incredible 8 year old boy, Bradley. At 6 years old he started a flower business. I may have planted the seed by saying, “when my hydrangeas bloom, you could sell them” But it was his idea completely to sell the flowers and donate all the money to 2 year old Connor year that was diagnosed with Leukemia,
Every night I would put Bradley to bed. On this particular night I was reading a “go fund me” page about Connor with Leukemia.
I said, “we sould donate mony.”
Bradley replied, “I could sell flowers.”
With a smile I said, “that is a great idea.”
We ended up raising $800.
And once again I was putting Bradley to bed, “guess how much you raised?” I asked
He looked at me waiting for a response.
“$800.”
He smiled and then said, “I want to raise $1,000.00”
And so we continued our work, raisint $1,800.

Bradley’s kind soul, compassion, motivation, tenacity, and livly spirit is my inpreration. Bradley has also inspired many other children and adults in the community.

We started a #BeLikeBradley entrepreneurship class for kids, with an emphasis on philanthropy.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
After Bradley passed away, I know I wanted to do something to honor him. At his funeral I said I would start a scholarship in his name. But the community said that I need to continue his work, helping children with life-threatening illnesses. In my heart, I knew they were right.
So on the 5th and the 19th (the day he passed and the day of his birth) we grant a child $1,919.00 and a gift basket of toys as well as every sibling. Because when a child is sick the whole family has to shift their priorities.

In just over a short year the foundation has helped around 60 children.

Bradley’s spirit has been our guiding light, our driving force. Whenever we have been met with challenges, some how the guiding force of Bradley has put the right person in our path to overcome the challenge.

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 live in Coto de Caza, California. I am a 15 minute drive to Leguna Beach. I would start my tour from my house and end it in Laguna Beach. As you entered my home you would see a beautiful mamorial of Bradley that is set up at our fire place. Then we would get in the car. Just 1.1 mile from the house is where the accident took place. We would make a left. On the right is the baseball fields, I would point out the score board that is named “Rofer Field” and I’d show you the plaque with his picture that is near the snack shack.
Next, we would drive pass his school. I’d show you his garden, and the beautiful Bradley bench.
Then we would drive to Laguna where I would show you the beautiful breath taking views. We would walk along the path and talk deep and meaningful conversations. Then I’d take you to the Montage, a beautiful hotel with a stunning view and great food.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My loving and supportive husband Aron Rofer. Connor Rofer for being a vital part of the foundation. Valerie Christopherson for all her time and dedication. The Board for honoring Bradley. The community for the support.

Website: Www.bradleyrofer.org

Instagram: Bradley rofer

Facebook: The Bradley Rofer Foundation

Image Credits
Josette rofer