STARability Foundation is excited to announce it recently presented a STAR Award to Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza, one of the organization’s dedicated vocational partners. The award was presented to Owner Laina Kennedy and Manager Osmairo Parra by employee and STARability participant Aaron K., alongside Halley Kretschmer, STARability’s director of career services and Jason Blount, STARability’s director of academy programs.

“We are incredibly proud to partner with STARability and support the extraordinary work they are doing in our community,” said Kennedy. “Their commitment to inclusion, opportunity and empowerment is beyond inspiring and it’s been a privilege to contribute to their mission. We especially love having the Trailblazer Academy participants as part of the Mister O1 family — they bring so much joy, enthusiasm and heart to our workplace.”

The STAR Award recognizes local businesses that train or employ participants, including those enrolled in STARability’s community-based programs focused on providing vocational training, life skill development and recreational experiences for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mister O1 has been an inclusive partner of STARability since 2021 as a vocational training site for the Trailblazer Academy. The restaurant also plans to expand employment opportunities at a second location. Additionally, Mister O1 has hosted fundraisers with a portion of proceeds directly benefiting the organization’s life-transforming programs and services.

“We are extremely grateful to the amazing team at Mister O1 for opening doors, breaking barriers and being a shining example of what’s possible when we all work together,” said Kretschmer. “Their dedication to creating an inclusive, empowering workplace truly embodies what the STAR Award is all about. With the support of local business and organizations like Mister O1, we can continue helping our participants grow their independence, build confidence and shine brighter every day.”

Aaron began his employment with Mister O1 in July 2024. As a valued team member, he is responsible for tasks such as preparing the dining area for the lunch shift, setting tables with menus and silverware, folding pizza boxes, and folding aprons and towels.

About Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza

With locations in Florida, Georgia and Texas, Mister O1 was born from the idea that an extraordinary pizza requires the utmost attention to detail and the finest ingredients, the necessary tools for an artist to produce a masterpiece. The recipe for success was simple: Quality and Consistency. These would be the hallmarks of Chef Renato Viola’s pizzas. Mister O1 uses only the finest and freshest ingredients and most of them are imported from Italy or locally sourced. The artisanal pizza is a delicate thin crust style with very light dough, which is prepared and rests for a minimum of 72 hours into natural levitation before being served. For more information, visit mistero1.com.

About STARability Foundation

For four decades, STARability Foundation has been shining a light on abilities. 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.