Baker Senior Center Naples Mourns Loss of Founder, President

Baker Senior Center Naples, a nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive programs and social services to support older adults and their families, announced the passing of its Founder, President and CEO Dr. Jaclynn Faffer. A visionary leader and innovator, Dr. Fafferwas the leading advocate for seniors in our community. 

Originally from New Jersey, Dr. Fafferwas a fearless professional and systems builder in the field of human services, with over 35 yearsof distinguished experience. She held a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from Tulane University and a Doctoral Degree in Social Welfare from the Wurzweiler School of Social Work at Yeshiva University. 

Dr. Faffer moved to Naples in 2010 to head a small family services agency which eventually became the Naples Senior Center, now known today as Baker Senior Center Naples. When the non-profit organization opened its doors in 2014, it was the first dedicated senior center in Collier County and served 80individuals aged 60 and over. 

Today, more than 1,700 members benefit from its mission of empowering older adults to thrive and enjoy life to its fullest. To accommodate that growth, Dr. Faffer oversaw the construction of a new 30,000-square-foot permanent homein North Naples in 2023. 

A dedicated community leader, Dr. Fafferwas a past chair of the Collier County Leadership Coalition on Aging and a graduate of Greater Naples Leadership Class XVIII, where she also served as a Board member. In July 2014, she attended the Harvard Business School Executive Education program for CEOs, focusing on Strategic Perspectives in Non-Profit Management. She also was appointed by the Department of Elder Affairs as Chair of the Collier County Dementia Care and Cure Initiative.  

Throughout her career, Dr. Fafferearned numerous awards. Most recently, she was named by Gulfshore Life magazine as one of its Men & Women of the Year 2025, which honored individuals who are shaping the future of the community through philanthropy, design, hospitality, and more.Dr. Faffer also was recently recognized by Naples Illustrated magazine among its Naples 100 top influential residents in Collier County.