STARability Foundation presents STAR Award to Connor+Gaskins

STARability Foundation recently presented a STAR Award to Connor+Gaskins, a dedicated community partner and the builder behind the nonprofit’s first-of-its-kind inclusive campus in Naples. The award was presented by STARability participant and current Connor+Gaskins employee Joseph S., alongside his job coach, Rebecca Warner, and Elisabeth Del Pero, chief development officer.

“We are grateful for STARability and participants like Joe, who shows us every day what hard work, dedication and a genuine desire to be part of a team look like,” shared Andrew Twetan, partner and president of Connor+Gaskins Studio. “Being involved with the meaningful work STARability is doing in Southwest Florida has been incredibly rewarding. We are proud to play a role in building the organization’s new campus.”

The STAR Award recognizes local businesses and organizations that champion inclusion by training, employing and empowering individuals with autism and intellectual and developmental disabilities. Connor+Gaskins exemplifies this commitment through its inclusive workplace practices and leadership support of STARability’s growing impact across Southwest Florida.

Joseph has been employed as an office assistant at Connor+Gaskins since April 2025. In his role, he helps keep the office running efficiently by restocking coffee bars and printers, tidying conference rooms, maintaining shared spaces and ensuring the office is clean and welcoming for staff and visitors. His contributions reflect the power of inclusive employment and the confidence and independence that meaningful work fosters.

Connor+Gaskins’ partnership with STARability extends well beyond the workplace. In 2025, the company was selected as the builder for the first phase of STARability’s innovative 42,000-square-foot campus, transforming an existing building into a vibrant, inclusive program center that will serve as a regional hub for individuals with autism and IDD and their families. Overseeing planning and construction, the multi-phase project represents a bold vision for expanded services and long-term growth across the region.

Connor+Gaskins was also a 2026 sponsor of the annual STAR Gala, helping fuel the life-transforming programs and services that empower participants to flourish.

“Connor+Gaskins has been an incredible partner in our mission to transform lives by creating opportunities for people with autism and IDD to thrive, especially through meaningful employment,” said Del Pero. “What began as support for our 5K and gala quickly grew into something even more impactful, from becoming an inclusive employer to now helping build our new center. Their commitment goes beyond sponsorship; it reflects true leadership in our community. Because of partners like Connor+Gaskins, individuals like Joe have the opportunity to contribute their skills, grow professionally and be valued members of a team, which is something we all strive for. This award honors their commitment to providing employment for all abilities and dedication to building a stronger, more inclusive community.”

With the support of partners like Connor+Gaskins, STARability is expanding its reach and impact, ensuring individuals with autism and IDD have access to meaningful employment, enriching programs and a welcoming community where they can shine.