STARability Foundation is pleased to announce it has been awarded a $7,500 grant from Suncoast Credit Union to support its Jr. Trailblazer Academy program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These valuable funds will be used toward staffing and program expenses, including community-based outings and activities, behavioral consultations, facility costs and equipment.
“We sincerely appreciate Suncoast Credit Union’s generous grant to support our mission,” said Karen Govern, CEO of STARability Foundation. “These funds will help us continue growing this important program and create opportunities for more of our STARs to shine.”
Modeled after the Trailblazer Academy, STARability’s centerpiece program, the Jr. Trailblazer Academy is a structured after-school program that offers vocational training, continuing education and life-enriching opportunities such as art, health and wellness activities to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities between the ages 14 and 22 who attend Collier County high schools. The program also focuses on employment readiness training, life skills education and community connections through the arts and environment.
“Empowering the communities we serve is a core value of Suncoast Credit Union,” said Kourtney Berry, executive director of the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation. “By investing in this transformative program, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful experiences to foster growth and enrich their lives.
