Collaboratory’s President & CEO Dr. Dawn Belamarich highlights Collaboratory’s bold mission and commitment to community. -DAVID WISHTISCHIN / FLORIDA WEEKLY

Lee Association for Remarkable Citizens will host its fourth annual Exceptional Employers of Southwest Florida on Tuesday, Sept. 1, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at The Collaboratory, 2031 Jackson St., Fort Myers.

John Heller of The Home Depot Bonita Springs is among the panelists.

Josh Heller. -COURTESY PHOTO

The free event brings together business owners, human resources professionals, hiring managers and community leaders to recognize local employers creating opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) while demonstrating how inclusive hiring can strengthen businesses through improved employee retention, workplace culture, productivity and community engagement.

The morning will feature a complimentary breakfast, networking, recognition of Southwest Florida’s Exceptional Employers, and an engaging panel discussion with business leaders who have successfully embraced inclusive hiring.

Panelists also include:

Dan Detrick, Vice President, CopyLady
Miguel Carmona, Owner-Operator, Culver’s of NE Cape Coral
Mary Rose, Director of Talent & Culture, Pink Shell Beach Resort

Miguel Carmona. -COURTESY PHOTO

Mary Rose. -COURTESY PHOTO

Dan Detrick. -COURTESY PHOTO

The event will be emceed by Kellie Burns, who spent 34 years in broadcast journalism and became one of Southwest Florida’s most trusted television news anchors.

Kellie Burns. -COURTESY PHOTO

“Businesses often tell us they’re looking for dedicated, reliable employees but aren’t sure where to begin,” said Angela Katz, Executive Director of LARC. “Exceptional Employers of Southwest Florida gives businesses the opportunity to hear directly from employers already experiencing the benefits of inclusive hiring while celebrating those who are helping build a stronger, more inclusive workforce. We hope attendees leave inspired and confident that hiring individuals with disabilities is not only the right thing to do, but also a smart business decision.”

Attendees will learn:

The business benefits of inclusive hiring.
Best practices for recruiting, onboarding and supporting employees with disabilities.
How LARC’s Community Support Services employment specialists supports both employers and employees for long-term success.
Practical strategies from employers already building successful inclusive workplaces.

For more than 72 years, LARC has empowered individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through education, vocational training, advocacy and employment services that connect qualified job seekers with local businesses while providing ongoing support to ensure lasting success.

LARC extends its appreciation to Presenting Sponsor Shaw Development, along with  Workforce Wellness Partner Lee Health; Talent Visionary Sponsors Cypress Cove, FGCU Golisano Intellectual & Developmental Disability Initiative and Steak ‘n Shake; Inclusion Advocate Sponsors Alpha Technology Group, Culver’s of NE Cape Coral, Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU) and Wawa, and Community Supporter Sponsor CopyLady.

Businesses that currently employ individuals with disabilities are encouraged to register so they can be recognized during the event and employers interested in learning how inclusive hiring can strengthen their workforce are also invited to attend.

The event is free and open to the public, but advance registration is requested.

To register, visit: larcleecounty.org/events/exceptional-employers-event/

For more information, contact: Nickole Hendra, Community Engagement & Communications Manager, LARC

239-334-6285 ext. 227 or nickolehendra@larcleecounty.org

About LARC

Founded in 1954, LARC empowers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to achieve their full potential through education, training, advocacy and opportunities for greater independence. Serving more than 300 individuals annually, LARC offers life skills, vocational training including its new Culinary Arts Training Program, youth programs, community employment services, residential services and a wide range of community inclusion opportunities on a full-time, year-round basis. LARC’s campus is located at 2570 Hanson St., Fort Myers.