STARability Foundation is excited to announce it presented a STAR Award to its dedicated vocational partner Germain Automotive Partnership in Naples. The award was presented to Rick Germain, president of Germain Automotive Partnership, and his team by employee and STARability participant Frank R.
The award recognizes local businesses that 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.
Germain Automotive Partnership became part of STARability’s vocational network in 2023 and serves as a valuable partner for inclusive employment, as well as a vocational training site for the Trailblazer and Jr. Trailblazer Academy programs, at several of its locations. STARability’s participants assist with numerous tasks including automotive, inventory, custodial, concierge, filing and preparing signage. Germain Automotive Partnership also supported the 2023 STAR Gala as a sponsor.
“We appreciate our ongoing partnership with STARability Foundation and hope our experience can serve as inspiration for other employers throughout our community,” said Rick Germain. “Helping these STARs fulfill their passions has been extremely rewarding and has positively impacted all our team members. We plan to continue exploring vocational training, career exploration and employment opportunities at various locations within the Germain Automotive Partnership group.”
Frank joined the Germain Toyota of Naples team as a TXM technician in March 2023. His responsibilities include checking battery life on vehicles, inspecting and filling fluid levels, completing oil changes, rotating tires and adjusting tire pressure levels. A lifelong lover of cars and working with mechanics, this position offers Frank the next step on his career path and closer to his dream of opening his own automotive shop.
Haley C., a second STARability participant, joined the Germain Lincoln of Naples team as a service concierge in October 2023. She is responsible for greeting customers, offering beverages and snacks, addressing needs and concerns.
Both participants received vocational training with the Trailblazer Academy and expressed interest in their respective roles. With the support of STARability’s vocational services team, they submitted applications, interviewed and secured their positions. After having the opportunity to train and observe Frank and Haley, Germain staff was eager to hire the participants and the onboarding process went smoothly for all involved.
“Germain Automotive Partnership has been a wonderful partner that has openly welcomed our participants,” said Karen Govern, CEO of STARability Foundation. “Without the support of inclusive businesses such as this, we would not be able to help our STARs reach their life goals and make meaningful connections with their community.”
Rick Germain and his brothers became the third generation to work in the family business that began as a Lincoln dealership established in 1947 in Columbus, Ohio. Together, they grew the company to include 16 locations in several markets. In 2011, Rick Germain formed the Germain Automotive Partnership with his sons Paul and John, which currently operates 18 stores in Ohio, Michigan and Florida. The Germain family is proud to represent an amazing network of brands and work alongside 1,300 first-class associates
