Lee Association of Remarkable Citizens (LARC) announces Angela Katz has been named executive director. Established in 1954, LARC Inc. is a training center for success that provides support services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

Katz was named interim executive director in March 2021. A highly-accomplished strategic fundraising and development professional, Katz joined LARC as director of development and communications in 2016. Her responsibilities included fund development, internal and external communications, marketing, and advancing community and business partnerships.

“Angela’s passion is to help fulfill the dreams and goals of people with disabilities so they can work, live and play in their community,” said Austin Clinton, president of LARC’s board of directors. “A proven leader, Angela has created innovative programs to increase the independence of individuals with disabilities, raised the profile of LARC in our community, developed a dedicated group of supporters, and significantly increased donors and donations. I know that the future of LARC is bright with Angela leading our organization.”

Prior to LARC, Katz established her own company, Angela Katz, LLC, specializing in fundraising strategies for non-profits. She was the development director of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southwest Florida for four years. Katz transitioned into non-profit work after retiring from a successful career as a Regional Vice President with PartyLite Gifts. She was responsible for strategic direction and training for a sales leadership team of more than 300 individuals, generating more than $1 million in annual sales.

“I am excited to work with such a talented staff and to collaborate with community partners to build upon LARC’s legacy and strategic vision,” said Katz. “Having the opportunity to realize one’s full potential and a secure future, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities should be valued members of their communities. This type of passion and dedication has fueled LARC’s mission for 67 years. We’ll continue that legacy and grow to provide more opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the future.”

Katz aims to continue championing innovative programs and meeting community needs for individuals with intellectual disabilities. She created the Learn, Achieve, Become Program (LAB) as well as the Exceptional Employers event recognizing employers in our community that have hired individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through vision and funding, she brought LARC’s Engraving Enterprise to life and established the Lori Carroll-Collins Scholarship fund.

Katz received her certification in fundraising management from Indiana University, Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. She earned certificates in non-profit management and non-profit operations from Hodges University. She is a board member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and The Babcock Neighborhood School. She was named non-profit employee of the year by The Cape Coral Community Foundation in 2019.

The mission of LARC is to empower and support individuals with disabilities and their families to achieve their full potential. Serving more than 300 individuals annually, ranging in ages from 14 to 78, LARC offers vocational training, community residential services, youth programs, and other community inclusion services. LARC’s main campus is located at 2570 Hanson Street, Fort Myers, FL 33901.

For more information, visit www.larcleecounty.org or contact Angela Katz at 239-334-6285 x210 or [email protected].