STARability hosts Volunteer Appreciation event to celebrate the impact of giving back

NAPLES, Fla. (July 23, 2025) – STARability Foundation, a leading nonprofit dedicated to transforming
the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, recently hosted an event at Baker Park
during Volunteer Appreciation Week to honor its volunteers and celebrate the impact of a community that
shows up, gives back and makes a difference.
Ken Gilman, Stacy Bolesky, Kathy Crevier and Sandra Smith were all recipients of the first ever
Shining STAR Award. This award is given to volunteers that have shown their unwavering commitment
to STARability and the participants they serve. Shining STAR Awards will now be given annually to
volunteers that continue to showcase their dedication to the organization. Attendees had the opportunity
to participate in raffles, and winners received curated gift bags.
STARability currently has over 250 dedicated volunteers supporting their mission. Since July
2024, their volunteers have collectively contributed over 4,000 hours of service. From assisting with art
projects to greeting patrons at fundraising events to working one-on-one to develop life skills, volunteers
play a vital role in helping participants connect, learn and gain independence.
“The commitment shown by our tireless volunteers, who give us the gift of their time and talents,
inspires us every day,” said Karen Govern, CEO of STARability Foundation. “Volunteering also goes
both ways at STARability. Our participants have volunteered more than 3,600 hours with 20 community
partners, resulting in a significant impact to our local businesses. We are proud to bring people into our
world, as well as let our STARs shine throughout the community.”
Volunteers are an essential part of STARability’s programs, events and endeavors designed to
transform the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Whether seeking an activity
to fulfill school service hours, a company team building activity, a meaningful and rewarding way to fill
retirement days, or a place to showcase specialized skills, STARability offers an abundance of volunteer
opportunities.
If interested in becoming a volunteer, contact Connor Nehls, director of engagement, at 239-594-
9007 x104 or connor@STARability.org. To learn more about volunteering opportunities and
STARability’s programs and resources, visit STARability.org.
For four decades, STARability Foundation has been shining a light on abilities. Formed by a
small community of caring parents, STARability has become one of Southwest Florida’s leading
nonprofits. Today, the organization is opening a world of possibilities for hundreds of individuals ages 14
and older by offering a variety of inclusive programs focused on vocational training, continuing
education, teamwork, social engagement and community involvement. Their compassionate team
supports people with disabilities by providing life-transforming opportunities that emphasize teamwork
and a connection to the community while strengthening awareness and respect for individual abilities. To
learn more about the services and program offerings available, please visit STARability.org.
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Contacts:
Ashley Nevar, STARability Foundation, 239-594-9007 x102, ashley@STARability.org
Angela Bell, Gravina, Smith, Matte & Arnold Marketing and PR, 239-275-5758, Angela@GSMA.pro

Photo

Connor Nehls, director of engagement at STARability Foundation with STAR Award recipient Kathy
Crevier.