Lee Association for Remarkable Citizens (LARC) hosted “Exceptional Employers of Southwest Florida” on Tuesday, July 23, at The Collaboratory. The event highlighted the benefits of employing individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), honored local employers that hire IDD, and celebrated exceptional employees with tenure in their jobs. LARC, a training center for success, provides essential support services to individuals with IDD and their families.

“We are committed to highlighting the unique talents and contributions that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities bring to the workplace,” said Angela Katz, Executive Director of LARC. “This population is often overlooked, yet significant gaps exist in the workforce, particularly in the hospitality industry. These individuals are capable, dedicated, and reliable employees who enrich any business they join.”

Numerous organizations in Southwest Florida, including LARC, provide support services for individuals with disabilities seeking employment. LARC helps identify and match individuals’ strengths to suitable jobs and provides job coaching to support the employee and employer.

The event featured a panel with Suzie Starks, Executive Director of the YMCA of Southwest Florida; Abby Richter, Customer Engagement Manager at Ecological Laboratories, Inc.; Elaine Rockenstyre, Vice President of Human resources at Shaw Development; and Shana Jenkins, Franchise Owner at Steak ‘n Shake. They discussed the benefits, challenges, and best practices in employing individuals with IDD.

Katz highlighted LARC’s state-of-the-art Commercial Culinary Training Kitchen, where staff will deliver training designed for the hospitality industry to individuals with IDD. “With the launch of our Commercial Culinary Training Kitchen, individuals with disabilities are poised to showcase their talents, dedication, and skills in the food service industry,” said Katz. “This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration and compassion, offering a win-win solution for businesses and individuals alike.” The kitchen is slated to open in December 2024.

Diana Willis, co-owner of Jason’s Deli of Southwest Florida, attended the Exceptional Employers event. “Jason’s Deli has been employing individuals with disabilities for several years. It’s been a positive experience for our employees and customers. We are excited about the opportunity to further embrace exceptional employees through LARC’s new culinary program.”

Research indicates that individuals with disabilities bring diverse talents to the workplace and tend to have higher job retention rates than their non-disabled counterparts. “Hiring people with exceptional abilities can lead to reduced turnover, lower recruiting costs, increased productivity, and enhanced customer outreach,” said Katz.

Peter Busch, anchor of NBC2 news, served as the event’s emcee. Sponsors included Chase Bank, Comcast, Ecological Laboratories, Steak ‘n Shake, Shaw Development, The YMCA of Southwest Florida, Open Doors Preschool, Jason’s Deli, Bimbo Bakeries, and The Collaboratory.

For more information about employing individuals with disabilities, contact Pamela Jenkins, Director of Community Support Services at 239-334-6285 x226 or [email protected].

To learn more about LARC, please visit www.larcleecounty.org or contact Angela Katz, Executive Director, at 239-334-6285 x210 or email [email protected].