Meet a Member: Jennifer Troke, APRO
Meet PAR member Jennifer Troke, Vice President of the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO).
What is a recent project or initiative that you're especially proud of?
We are most proud of our Legislative Fellows program which was an idea that one of our industry leaders shared to help train the next generation on advocacy. As someone who worked and lived in DC for over 20 years, it’s fun to go back and see how impactful and special the city is. It’s fun to see democracy in action and play a small part in changing minds and lives.
If you weren’t working in associations, what other career could you see yourself pursuing?
We started fostering puppies about 5 years ago, and we’ve had over 100 dogs in and out of our house over these last many years. It’s incredibly rewarding to doctor them up, give them some basic manners, get as many snuggles as possible, and then send them on their way to forever homes. Sometimes it’s easy to say goodbye, but other times we ugly cry because they become our babies. I have to remind myself that other people need dog love, too! All this to say that I would love to work in the animal welfare space because there are never enough foster homes, resources, and always too many puppies! Plus, all the people I’ve volunteered with in this space are total bad asses with hearts of gold, and I want to be like them when I grow up! Yes, many of them are association people!!!
What’s a fun fact or quirky hobby that helps you unwind outside of work?
Super nerdy to admit this but I love to puzzle! It’s super relaxing for me, and my family calls me the laser because I hone in on the missing piece that they’ve been looking for and it irritates them. LOL. They started taking the last piece of the puzzle and hiding it as their revenge! Can you imagine? My family is hilarious!
What’s your favorite quote or motto that keeps you motivated?
I have two – 90% of life is showing up so even when you don’t want to do it, you must! Just get there and you’ll be glad you did, always. And the other one is related and the same sentiment – fake it till you make it. New things are scary, but once you jump in, it gets easier for the next time. I used to be a little flaky, so holding myself to my commitments is really important. I still fall down in applying these mottos to my gym membership, but it’s the intent, right?
If you could live anywhere in the world for one year, where would it be and what would you do?
This one’s easy – It’s been a lifelong dream to go to France! I’ve actually never been to Europe. When the kids were little, we had a couple of French au pairs who lived with us and became my ‘favorite’ children. My dream is to meet up with them in Paris and wile away the days together in French cafes just drinking wine, eating pain du chocolat, smoking cigarettes (because it’s a requirement in France), and laughing until we cry. La vie et belle!
Meet PAR Member Organization: APRO
The Association of Progressive Rental Organizations (APRO) is America’s only national trade association for the rent-to-own (RTO) industry. Established in 1980 to advocate for and support the interests of RTO businesses, APRO provides its members with essential resources, industry insights, and a strong community network. Through educational initiatives, legislative advocacy, and professional development opportunities, APRO strives to elevate the standards and success of the RTO sector, ensuring it continues to thrive and serve customers with integrity and excellence.