Lee Association for Remarkable Citizens (LARC) is hosting the inaugural Exceptional Employers of Southwest Florida event on Thursday, September 12 from 7:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. at The Southwest Florida Community Foundation’s Collaboratory, 2031 Jackson St, Fort Myers, 33901. The event is free and open to the public. Advance registration is requested. The purpose of the event is to recognize exceptional employers in our community that have hired individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The event will include a light breakfast, networking and a panel discussion with local business owners and executives discussing best practices for employing individuals with disabilities. Peter Busch of NBC-2 will emcee the event.  Panelists include Brian West, media and communications manager, Publix Super Markets, Pat Carroll, co-founder, Carroll Properties Investments and David Mulicka, owner, Honc Destruction.

“We are recognizing the unique talents that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities bring to the workplace,” said Angela Katz, LARC Development Director. “They are capable and are some of the most dedicated and reliable employees any business could want. We encourage companies that are currently employing people with different abilities to attend, as well as those who are interested in building a diverse workplace.”

“Individuals with disabilities offer a broad pool of talents and tend to stay on the job longer than employees without disabilities,” said Pat Carroll. “Given the opportunity, they are able to show their skills, loyalty, and determination, and become successful members of the community. Hiring people with exceptional abilities is a win-win for everyone.”

Businesses who employ people who are differently able are encouraged to register in advance so they can be recognized at the event. To register as an Exceptional Employer or to register as an attendee visit www.larcleecounty.org/events.

Event sponsorships are available. For more information contact Angela Katz, Development Director at 239-334-6285 x229 or [email protected].

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 in age from 14 to 76. LARC offers vocational training, community residential services, and a vast array of other state-of-the-art community inclusion services on a full-time, year-round basis. LARC’s main campus is located at 2570 Hanson Street, Fort Myers, and a satellite campus is in Bonita Springs. LARC also operates two Residential Group Homes located in Cape Coral and North Fort Myers.

To learn more about LARC visit www.larcleecounty.org