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Collaboratory\u2019s President & CEO Dr. Dawn Belamarich highlights Collaboratory\u2019s bold mission and commitment to community. -DAVID WISHTISCHIN \/ FLORIDA WEEKLY<\/p>\n
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.\n<\/p>\n
John Heller of The Home Depot Bonita Springs is among the panelists.\n<\/p>\n
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Josh Heller. -COURTESY PHOTO<\/p>\n
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.\n<\/p>\n
The morning will feature a complimentary breakfast, networking, recognition of Southwest Florida\u2019s Exceptional Employers, and an engaging panel discussion with business leaders who have successfully embraced inclusive hiring.\n<\/p>\n
Panelists also include:\n<\/p>\n
Dan Detrick, Vice President, CopyLady
\nMiguel Carmona, Owner-Operator, Culver\u2019s of NE Cape Coral
\nMary Rose, Director of Talent & Culture, Pink Shell Beach Resort<\/p>\n
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Miguel Carmona. -COURTESY PHOTO<\/p>\n
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Mary Rose. -COURTESY PHOTO<\/p>\n
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Dan Detrick. -COURTESY PHOTO<\/p>\n
The event will be emceed by Kellie Burns, who spent 34 years in broadcast journalism and became one of Southwest Florida\u2019s most trusted television news anchors.\n<\/p>\n
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Kellie Burns. -COURTESY PHOTO<\/p>\n
\u201cBusinesses often tell us they\u2019re looking for dedicated, reliable employees but aren\u2019t sure where to begin,\u201d said Angela Katz, Executive Director of LARC. \u201cExceptional 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.\u201d\n<\/p>\n
Attendees will learn:\n<\/p>\n
The business benefits of inclusive hiring.
\nBest practices for recruiting, onboarding and supporting employees with disabilities.
\nHow LARC\u2019s Community Support Services employment specialists supports both employers and employees for long-term success.
\nPractical strategies from employers already building successful inclusive workplaces.<\/p>\n
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.\n<\/p>\n
LARC extends its appreciation to Presenting Sponsor Shaw Development, along with\u00a0 Workforce Wellness Partner Lee Health; Talent Visionary Sponsors Cypress Cove, FGCU Golisano Intellectual & Developmental Disability Initiative and Steak \u2018n Shake; Inclusion Advocate Sponsors Alpha Technology Group, Culver\u2019s of NE Cape Coral, Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU) and Wawa, and Community Supporter Sponsor CopyLady.\n<\/p>\n
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.\n<\/p>\n
The event is free and open to the public, but advance registration is requested.\n<\/p>\n
To register, visit: larcleecounty.org\/events\/exceptional-employers-event\/<\/a>\n<\/p>\n For more information, contact: Nickole Hendra, Community Engagement & Communications Manager, LARC\n<\/p>\n