A STARability™ experiential vocational training and life skills learning program
Trailblazer Academy Schedule
Date: Monday through Friday
Time: 9:00am to 3:00pm
Cost: Call our office for pricing.
Scholarships are available.
Location: Meet at STARability offices at 9:00am. Activities take place throughout the community. Transportation is provided from the STARability office to area locations.
CLICK HERE to download the 2018-2019 Trailblazer Academy Yearly Calendar
About Trailblazer Academy
STARability Foundation™ a 501(c)(3), launched the Trailblazer Academy to address an unmet need in Collier County, for a full-time, post-high school program for young adults with intellectual (ID) and developmental (DD) disabilities. Trailblazers is a community-based program that combines vocational training at area businesses, employment readiness, independent living skills, academic education, health and fitness, and art enrichment experiences in an all-in-one curriculum.
Blazing a Trail for Inclusion
Trailblazer Academy’s program instructors work with the participants daily:
• Coaching job skills at diverse work sites
• Assessing their unique skills
• Measuring levels of independence for employment readiness
The experience of vocational training and commuting as a group also unifies the participants. The social interactions, confidence-building, Trailblazer-to-Trailblazer support, and teamwork enhance the experience and connect them to the community.
Filling a Community Gap
The Trailblazer Academy fills a gap in disability services by providing daily vocational training and education for individuals18 years and older with ID/DD who have aged out of school services. It gives these participants exposure to the world of work and allows them to experience diverse jobs and businesses as well as discover how they can contribute through their unique abilities.
Accomplishing Goals
Participants can accomplish what they otherwise might think impossible:
• Hands-on training for jobs
• Life skills development
• Independency
• A sense of purpose and pride
• A community connection
“The Trailblazer Academy has opened up a world for my daughter. She is learning valuable vocational skills, has made new friends and is encouraged to try new things that typical people experience. Her opportunities are now endless and she feels worthwhile and fulfilled.”
– Joy, parent of a Trailblazer Academy participant
Community Collaboration
Built on community partnerships with a variety of local businesses and nonprofits, the Trailblazer Academy offers on-site vocational training and exposure to the world-of-work for participants. With help from employees, volunteers, and diverse businesses the participants are active and engaged with customers, employees, and volunteers on a daily basis. Through this program they are ”leading the way” in the community.
Get Involved
Your support can help change lives. By donating, sponsoring and/or volunteering, you are making
a difference. Contact info@STARability.org for partnership opportunities.
Vocational Partners
