Jonathan Ponce, who has been with Publix for 20 years, with his mom Ketty Busquets, and Linnea Murphy, Retail Staffing Specialist at Publix

Lee Association for Remarkable Citizens (LARC) hosted its annual Exceptional Employers of Southwest Florida event on Thursday, July 17, at The Collaboratory in downtown Fort Myers. The event honored local businesses that demonstrate a strong commitment to hiring individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and featured a panel of inclusive employers who shared their insights and experiences. The event was sponsored by The Community Foundation and Chase Bank.

Peter Busch, award-winning journalist and Gulf Coast news anchor, emceed the event, which brought together business leaders, community partners, and advocates for a morning of networking, recognition, and meaningful dialogue.

The panel discussion included the following leaders in inclusive employment:
• Suzanne Plazewski, Assistant Director of Culinary Services at Cypress Cove
• Evelyn Portinari, Director of Human Resources and Volunteer Management at the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples
• Kristin Sampson, Director of Operations at Gulf Coast Humane Society
• Lindsey Ventriglia, General Manager of Jason’s Deli and Foxtail Coffee

Panelists shared best practices, success stories, and actionable strategies to inspire and empower more businesses to adopt inclusive hiring practices.

Peter Busch, Emcee, Gulf Coast News Anchor

“We were honored to shine a spotlight on companies that not only talk the talk but walk the walk when it comes to building a more inclusive workforce,” said Angela Katz, Executive Director of LARC. “The talents and dedication of individuals with disabilities enhance team morale, boost productivity, and contribute to stronger, more compassionate workplaces.”

LARC partners with 77 businesses in Southwest Florida to employ 89 individuals. LARC’s comprehensive approach includes skill-building via diverse vocational programs, hands-on, supported employment in real business settings, proactive job placement and ongoing employment coach support, early engagement through youth career camps and education and advocacy to expand inclusive hiring across Southwest Florida.

The event recognized employers in attendance who currently employ individuals with disabilities, applauding their leadership and commitment to diversity and inclusion, and exceptional employees, many of who had long tenure at their places of employment. Jonathan Ponce was recognized for his twenty years of service at Publix.

Stacey Layton LARC Employment Specialist, Randy Hill Jason’s Deli 3 years, Lindsey Ventrigilia Manager of Jason’s Deli

Attendees enjoyed a complimentary breakfast and engaged in conversations that foster community collaboration around inclusive employment.

LARC continues to encourage businesses to consider the many benefits of hiring individuals with IDD—including increased employee retention, lower turnover, and improved customer satisfaction.

To learn more about LARC’s workforce inclusion programs or how to become an Exceptional Employer, visit www.larcleecounty.org or contact Pamela Jenkins at 239‑334‑6285 ext. 226 or pamelajenkins@larcleecounty.org

About LARC

Established in 1954, LARC is a training center for success for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. LARC serves more than 300 individuals annually, and participants range from 14 to 83.

LARC offers life skills training, vocational training, youth programs, community employment services, and a vast array of other state-of-the-art community inclusion services on a full-time, year-round basis. Its main campus is located at 2570 Hanson Street, Fort Myers. LARC also operates two Residential Group Homes in Cape Coral.