STARability Foundation Celebrates STAR Participants with an Afternoon on the Red Carpet

STAR participant Frank accepts his award in style.

The afternoon event was sponsored by Stofft Cooney Architects and also included lunch, dancing and photo opportunities for participants and their families. STARs were presented awards ranging from Most Spirited to Best Smile.

“We are honored we could offer an event to make our STARs feel special,” said Karen Govern, CEO of STARability Foundation. “We strive to get to know all we can about our participants and develop unique bonds with them. The look on the faces of our participants as they received their personalized, meaningful awards and the pride beaming from their families was truly priceless.”

The STAR Gala, STARability’s largest benefit event of the year, will be held Saturday, February 11, 2023, at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples at 5:30 p.m. The fundraising event will feature cocktails, dinner, live entertainment and a variety of exclusive live and silent auctions. Proceeds from the event support hundreds of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families throughout the community.

Star Gala Co-chairs Allison Rainey and Jana Seaman showing support for the STARs.

For nearly four decades, STARability Foundation has been shining a light on abilities, not disabilities. Formed by a small community of caring parents, STARability has become one of Southwest Florida’s leading nonprofits. Today, the organization is opening a world of possibilities for hundreds of individuals ages 14 and older by offering a variety of inclusive programs focused on vocational training, continuing education, teamwork, social engagement and community involvement. STARability’s compassionate team supports people with disabilities by providing life-transforming opportunities that emphasize teamwork and a connection to the community while strengthening awareness and respect for individual abilities.

Featured Photo: STAR participant Abigail poses in style with her mom and sister.

For more information about STARability’s 2023 STAR Gala,
visit STARability.org/gala.