Cypress Cove Expands Inclusive Employment Partnership with LARC

(FORT MYERS, Fla., September 30, 2025) – Cypress Cove continues to strengthen its commitment to inclusive employment by partnering with LARC (Lee Association for Remarkable Citizens) to create meaningful opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Currently, two of LARC’s individuals, Ethan and Frances, are proudly employed in the Cypress Cove dining hall. In addition, three individuals are participating in LARC’s On-the-Job Training (OJT) program, with a fourth trainee joining this month.

A unique highlight of the collaboration is the advancement of Edward, who is completing his OJT and will soon transition into a permanent employee role at Cypress Cove. Edward is stepping into a leadership position by serving as a peer trainer for two new OJTs—Adreil and Kevin.  He will be training them as kitchen assistants and bussers, sharing his skills and experience to help them succeed.

“We’re proud to share that our culinary department at Cypress Cove has partnered with LARC, an organization dedicated to creating meaningful job opportunities for adults with disabilities,” said Laurent Bosc, Director of Culinary Services at Cypress Cove. “Our shared goal was simple yet powerful: to open doors to individuals known for their reliability, enthusiasm, and strong desire to work.

As part of this collaboration, we’ve welcomed two incredible new team members into our restaurant, one serving as a server and the other as a server assistant. Their positive attitude and strong work ethic have already made a meaningful impact, and they’ve been warmly welcomed into the Cypress Cove family with genuine enthusiasm.

We’re also thrilled to announce our participation in LARC’s On-the-Job Training Program, through which we will soon begin training two additional individuals to become server assistants. The results of this partnership have been outstanding so far, and we look forward to continuing to grow and support this initiative.”

Cypress Cove has been recognized by LARC as an Exceptional Employer for its leadership in creating a workplace where people of all abilities can thrive.

Angela Katz, Executive Director of LARC, emphasized the importance of inclusive employment partnerships: “Opportunities like the ones Cypress Cove is creating are life-changing for our individuals. When businesses welcome people of all abilities into their workforce, they don’t just gain dedicated employees—they help build a stronger, more inclusive community. We are grateful for Cypress Cove’s leadership and encourage other employers to consider how they, too, can make a difference.”

Through this partnership, Cypress Cove now employs two LARC individuals, three active OJTs, and one more about to begin training, showcasing the power of inclusive employment to build skills, confidence, and community.

If your business is interested in employing or providing training opportunities through LARC, please contact Pamela Jenkins, Director of Community Support Services, at 239-334-6285 x226 or [email protected]