STARability Foundation is excited to announce it presented a STAR Award to Paragon Theaters, one of the organization’s dedicated vocational partners. The award was presented to Latrelle Day, the theater’s manager, and his team by employee and STARability participant Meghan E.

“When I presented Paragon with the award, I felt good and they felt good, too,” shared Meghan after presenting the award to her fellow team members. “Work makes me feel good and I am a hard worker. Being employed has impacted me quite a bit. I have more money to go out and do things, and to be independent. I also love being around the staff and just being around the Paragon, working my shifts. All the staff are wonderful. I could not have asked for a better group of individuals to work with. That’s not just the managers, it includes my coworkers and the customers who come in and greet you. It’s an awesome place to work.”

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.

Paragon Theaters has been an inclusive partner of STARability since 2016 when they began offering free movies days for participants. In 2019, the theater became an official vocational training jobsite. The company is continuing to explore additional career development and engagement opportunities with STARability.

“We are extremely grateful for the opportunity to partner with Paragon Theaters to offer exciting and meaningful opportunities for our participants,” said Halley Kretschmer, director of career services at STARability Foundation. “Through our Career Services, participants learn job skills, explore career opportunities and find employment with businesses who believe in their abilities. We purposefully match people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to supportive, inclusive employers throughout Collier County and are proud to honor Paragon Theaters with this recognition.”

As an active participant in STARability’s Trailblazer Academy, Meghan has shown exceptional performance and a strong work ethic throughout her vocational training. After being given a glowing recommendation for her positive attitude and determination, she was hired as the first STARability participant at Paragon Theaters in June 2023. With the guidance of a job coach, Meghan quickly transitioned to independent employment, achieving this milestone within just two months of starting her job.

As a crew member, Meghan is responsible for tasks such as taking and fulfilling food orders, greeting guests, cleaning and stocking supplies. Along with regular check-ins, Meghan continues to receive support from the compassionate vocational services team as she pursues her future aspirations.

In addition to her employment, Meghan also takes part in Work Club, which consists of a small group of STARs aiming to enhance their skills in communication, teamwork and self-advocacy.

About Paragon Theaters

Paragon Theaters was founded in 2009 by Michael Whalen and Michael Wilson, former executives at Muvico Theaters. Paragon Theaters is passionate about its customer experience and focuses on innovation in amenities and enhanced service. Paragon’s ground-breaking concepts such as Lux Box VIP Dine-In Seating and Axis15 Extreme tilted screens are featured in every Paragon location and are just a few examples of the company’s unique offerings. Visit paragontheaters.com for showtimes, tickets and more.

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.