Funds Support Purchase of Utility Trailer for Woodshop Program
(FORT MYERS, Fla., October 7, 2025) Lee Association for Remarkable Citizens (LARC), a nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), has received a $5,000 grant from the Rotary Club of Fort Myers South. The funding will be used to purchase a utility trailer for LARC’s Woodshop program, giving participants the ability to deliver handcrafted products directly to businesses and community partners across Southwest Florida.
“This grant is not just about transportation—it’s about empowerment,” said Angela Katz, Executive Director of LARC. “The new trailer will expand our ability to distribute Woodshop products, strengthen community connections, and showcase the talents of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We are grateful to the Rotary Club for believing in our mission and helping us grow.”
LARC’s Woodshop provides vocational training, hands-on skill development, and meaningful work opportunities for individuals with IDD. Participants produce custom survey stakes, pallets, vent boards, and more for local businesses. They also assist with loading, unloading, painting, and product delivery, gaining valuable experience in teamwork, time management, and professionalism. Beyond technical training, participants build life skills such as communication, self-advocacy, academics, workplace ethics, and community safety. Each program is tailored to individual goals, helping increase independence and readiness for potential employment.
The addition of the trailer will create a unique dual impact, empowering participants while supporting local businesses. For individuals with IDD, the trailer opens more opportunities to engage directly in product deliveries, providing not only practical work experience but also confidence in navigating the community. For local businesses, the Woodshop supplies high-quality, custom-built products crafted to meet their specific needs. Improved delivery capacity will ensure that companies receive their materials faster and more reliably, strengthening LARC’s role as a trusted community partner. At the same time, participants will gain greater visibility in the community, allowing them to be seen, valued, and recognized for their contributions. These interactions foster awareness, inclusion, and stronger relationships between businesses and individuals with IDD.
The project also drives economic impact by keeping production and purchasing local. When businesses choose to partner with LARC, they are not only receiving reliable, high-quality service, but also contributing to a circular benefit: businesses support LARC, and in return LARC provides a mission-driven service that strengthens the regional economy. In addition, the enhanced delivery efficiency reduces operational costs and allows LARC to serve more customers with fewer resources. Revenue from product sales is reinvested into direct support services, helping sustain and expand LARC’s programs over time. This model builds a stronger, more inclusive economy while ensuring individuals of all abilities are seen, valued, and given the opportunity to contribute.
LARC encourages area businesses to support the Woodshop by purchasing products, offering employment opportunities, or investing in community inclusion efforts.
For more information about LARC’s woodshop, products, programs and services, visit www.larcleecounty.org or call 239-334-6285 x231.