STARability Foundation is excited to announce it presented a STAR Award to its dedicated vocational partner Arthrex. The award was presented to Meg Hardt, Lisa Halpin, Chef William Bum and Arthrex staff by STARability’s Chief Program Officer Madison Nehls and participants of the Trailblazer Academy.
The STAR Award recognizes local businesses that train or employ participants, including those enrolled in STARability’s community-based programs focused on providing vocational training, life skill development and recreational experiences for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
“We are honored to have the opportunity to engage with the STAR participants,” said Hardt, supervisor of corporate engagement at Arthrex and a STARability board member. “Each time they come to our campus the employees benefit from their visit just as much as the participants. When they enter the building, they light up the room and their smiles and excitement are contagious. Getting to know the participants has been the most rewarding experience and Arthrex looks forward to continuing our partnership with STARability for many years to come.”
In 2022, the partnership expanded as Arthrex staff participated in volunteer and team-building experiences; STAR participants began volunteering onsite and Arthrex officially became a Trailblazer Academy vocational training site. Today, Trailblazer Academy participants continue to learn and develop skills by volunteering every other month in their wellness center, Medical Education Team, Arthrex Proud store, culinary department, and at meetings and events.
In addition to serving on the board of directors, Hardt and her husband Tyler will serve as co-chairs for STARability’s 7th Annual Run, Walk and Roll 5K on Oct. 19.
“We are extremely grateful for our collaborative partnership with the enthusiastic and compassionate team at Arthrex,” said Nehls. “They have been truly active supporters of our STARs and we look forward to continue exploring additional training and employment opportunities.”
Arthrex is a global medical device company and leader in new product development and medical education in orthopedics. With a corporate mission of Helping Surgeons Treat Their Patients Better®, Arthrex has pioneered the field of arthroscopy and develops more than 1,000 innovative products and procedures each year. Learn more at arthrex.com
