NAPLES — STARability Foundation presented a STAR Award to its dedicated vocational partner, Winfield Street Coffee. The award was presented to Co-owner Jeanette Donatti by employees and STARability Trailblazer Academy participants Alexis Kypriotes and Dago Romero.

The award recognizes local businesses that employ STARability participants, including those enrolled in the Trailblazer Academy, a community-based program focused on providing vocational training, life skill development and recreational experiences for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“Winfield Street Coffee is proud to be one of the many factors that enable STARs like Dago and Alexis to be more independent and contribute to our community at large,” said Donatti. “We are thankful for what Dago has brought to our North location and excited to see Alexis thrive at the South location.”

Winfield Street Coffee has been partnering with STARability since March, serving as a vocational site employing participants and providing industry tours, as well as supporting STARability’s Run, Walk & Roll 5K. Additionally, Winfield Street Coffee will be partnering with the STAR Store & Studio, STARability’s social enterprise, to offer in-house sales of products, including a custom coffee scented candle.

As proud team members, Kypriotes and Romero assist with a variety of tasks, including greeting and engaging with customers, cleaning, organizing merchandise and displays, watering plants and maintaining outdoor seating areas.

“We are thankful for the variety of generous support we have received from Winfield Street Coffee,” said Karen Govern, CEO of STARability Foundation. “Not only are they offering life-changing opportunities for our STARs, but have also collaborated to find creative ways to partner with teams throughout the organization to support our mission.”

Winfield Street Coffee is a welcoming neighborhood coffee shop offering coffee, deli sandwiches, corporate catering and more. The shop was created to be a community gathering coffee place where guests can find a warm smile, excellent coffee and creative food.

For 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. Their 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. To learn more about the services and program offerings available, please visit STARability.org.