More than 530 participants joined STARability Foundation’s 7th Annual Run, Walk and Roll 5K on Saturday, Oct. 19, at Paradise Coast Sports Complex in Naples. The event, which featured a record-breaking number of participants, raised over $90,000, which will be used to meet the community’s growing needs by expanding STARability’s innovative, life-transforming programs and services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Presented by Inspired Closets SWFL and event chairs Meg and Tyler Hardt, the race was timed by Florida Race Day and emceed by WINK News anchor Taylor Petras. Sammy Callari and STAR participant Parker S. served as the first-ever Grand Marshal duo.

“Tyler and I were honored to assist with this year’s Run, Walk and Roll 5K to support STARability and its mission,” said Meg Hardt. “This event would not be possible without the help of the volunteers and STARability staff. Thanks to the hard-working volunteers, this year was our largest turnout ever! It was inspiring to see so many community members crossing the finish line side by side with the STARability participants. STARability does so much for our community, and it was nice to see the community come out and support us.”

Generous sponsors and underwriters of the race were:

- Presenting Sponsor – Inspired Closets SWFL

- T-shirt Underwriter – AssuredPartners Transportation

- Finish Line Underwriter – The Germain Family

- Dog Bandana Underwriter – Naples Coastal Animal Hospital

- Platinum Sponsor – Moran Wealth Management

- Gold Sponsors – ABLE United and Connor & Gaskins Unlimited

- Silver Sponsors – Douglas Elliman Real Estate and Owen-Ames-Kimball Co. (O-A-K)

- Bronze Sponsors – Best Buddies SWFL, Senior Fitness Finder, Suncoast Credit Union, Suffolk Construction, Tropical Tile & Marble and The Sylvester Family

- Turquoise Sponsors – The Naples Studio and Zee Anna Photography

- Media Sponsors – Gulfshore Business and Naples Daily News

“We are extremely grateful for the tremendous support of everyone who participated and helped make this event another one of our most successful races to date,” said Karen Govern, CEO of STARability Foundation. “It is so inspiring to see the event and the support of our STAR participants and their families continue to grow each year. Watching the sense of accomplishment and pure joy as our STARs cross the finish line is a truly priceless experience.”

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.