STARability Foundation is honored to announce it has been awarded a $20,000 grant from the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation to expand its Vocational Services programming for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
“We are extremely grateful for the continued support of the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation,” said Karen Govern, CEO of STARability Foundation. “Many individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities want to work, but they often have a difficult time finding a job. We serve as a matchmaker for these individuals and employers who believe in an inclusive workplace. This funding will help us expand our Vocational Services offerings and increase the number of employed participants, giving our STARs purpose and the skills needed to reach their professional goals.”
STARability connects participants like Dago, who currently works as a greeter and server at Winfield Street Coffee-Naples North, with inclusive employers throughout the Naples community.
Through STARability’s Vocational Services, participants learn job skills, explore career opportunities and find employment with businesses who believe in their abilities. As an approved provider for the Florida Department of Education Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), STARability also offers job readiness services and connects individuals not enrolled in its programs with inclusive employers and job training sites throughout the Naples community.
Vocational Services Manager, Halley Kretschmer, who is certified through VR, provides comprehensive services such as an initial consultation, a skills and interests inventory and on-the-job coaching. An experienced team further supports the job search process through resume writing, interview techniques and employment readiness training. These valuable services are available to all STAR participants and any individuals seeking community employment.
“The Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation recognizes STARability is an important organization in our community, and we are proud to present them with a grant in support of their work with individuals who have intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said Mary Beth Geier, Florida Director of the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation. “STARability finds innovative and meaningful ways to engage these people and create meaningful opportunities for them.”
