LARC (Lee Association for Remarkable Citizens) brought together more than 90 business leaders, community partners and advocates on September 1 for Exceptional Employers of Southwest Florida, an event highlighting the benefits of employing individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and encouraging more local businesses to consider inclusive hiring.

Fort Myers Mayor Kevin Anderson with Emcee Kellie Burns

Held at The Collaboratory and moderated by longtime Southwest Florida journalist and LARC advocate Kellie Burns, the event featured a panel of local employers who shared their firsthand experiences with inclusive employment.

Panelists included:

• Miguel Carmona, Owner-Operator, Culver’s of NE Cape Coral
• Dan Detrick, Vice President of CopyLady
• John Heller, Assistant Store Manager at The Home Depot Bonita Springs
• Mary Rose, Director of Talent and Culture at Pink Shell Beach Resort on Fort Myers Beach

Panelists spoke candidly about the benefits, challenges, and successes they have experienced. One message stood out throughout the morning: Don’t make assumptions about what someone with a disability can do. Give them the opportunity to show you.

The employers shared stories of employees who exceeded expectations, found creative ways to accomplish tasks and became valued members of their teams. They also emphasized that successful employment is about finding the right person for the right job and providing the support each employee needs to thrive.

That is where LARC’s Employment Services team plays an important role.

The Exceptional Employer Audience

LARC helps individuals with disabilities prepare for and secure meaningful employment through resume development, interview preparation, training, and job placement. The team also works directly with employers to identify appropriate positions, create successful matches, and provide ongoing support to both the employee and employer.

Today, approximately 100 individuals receive employment support and placement services through LARC, and the organization partners with 83 businesses throughout Southwest Florida. Those partnerships are helping individuals earn a paycheck, build confidence and independence, develop relationships and become valued members of the workforce.

“For 72 years, LARC has seen what can happen when people are given an opportunity to demonstrate their abilities,” said Angela Katz, Executive Director of LARC. “For employers who are interested in inclusive hiring but aren’t sure where to begin, we are here to help. Our Employment Services team can answer questions, identify potential positions, and provide ongoing support to help both the employee and employer succeed.”

Sponsors include: Presenting Sponsor, Shaw Development; Workforce Wellness Partner, Lee Health; Talent Visionary Sponsors, Cypress Cove, FGCU Marieb College of Health & Human Services’ Golisano Intellectual & Developmental Disability Initiative and Steak ‘n Shake; Inclusion Advocate Sponsors, Alpha Technology Group, Culver’s Cape Coral NE, FL, Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU), Quantum Fiber from AT&T and Wawa; and Community Supporters, CopyLady and Grande Aire Services.

The fifth annual Exceptional Employer event will be held on Wednesday, September 15, 2027 at The Collaboratory.

Businesses interested in learning more about employing individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are encouraged to contact Pamela Jenkins, Director of Support Services at LARC to explore opportunities within their workforce by calling (239) 334-6285 ext. 226 or emailing pamelajenkins@larcleecounty.org. For more information about LARC, visit www.larcleecounty.org.