New Canaan YMCA Named Employer of the Year by STAR Inc.

STAR Inc., a leading nonprofit dedicated to providing services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, announced the New Canaan YMCA as the recipient of its 2024 Employer of the Year Award. This prestigious award honors local employers who demonstrate outstanding commitment to inclusivity, support, and opportunities for individuals with disabilities in the workplace.

STAR’s Employer of the Year Award highlights organizations that go above and beyond in creating an inclusive environment where people with disabilities can thrive. The Y’s dedication to providing employment opportunities, mentorship, and a supportive work environment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities has made a profound impact on the lives of STAR’s clients.

“Our Y is thrilled to receive this award,” shared Margaret Riley, New Canaan YMCA Executive Director. “We are a workplace committed to inclusivity. Through our employment initiative and partnership with STAR, we are proud to offer meaningful job opportunities that foster skill development and independence to individuals of all abilities,” added Riley.

In 2021, the Y launched an initiative to provide employment to teens and adults with special needs in the community. The Y offers a supportive atmosphere and welcoming work environment. Since launching the initiative, the Y has employed seven individuals with special needs, three of whom were introduced to the Y through its partnership with STAR.

“The New Canaan YMCA has been an incredible partner in promoting inclusion and diversity in the workplace,” said Kate Guthrie, Director of Development of STAR. “Their leadership in hiring, training, and supporting individuals with disabilities sets an inspiring example for other employers in our community. They truly embody the values of empathy, opportunity, and empowerment. The Y’s commitment to inclusion is evident in its continued partnership with STAR Inc. to create job placements for individuals with disabilities, offering personalized support and a welcoming environment where employees feel valued. Through their work together, STAR clients have gained not only valuable job skills but also confidence and independence.”

The Y’s employment initiative is made possible through the Cioffi Family Special Needs Employment Fund within the New Canaan YMCA’s endowment. The vision of the Fund is to help strengthen the Y’s commitment to an inclusive and welcoming environment for all. The New Canaan YMCA’s support services department serves over 130 children, teens, and adults with special needs each year through meaningful programs, events, and resources. To learn more about support and inclusion programs at the New Canaan YMCA, visit www.newcanaanymca.org. To make a donation in support of these programs, visit www.newcanaanymca.org/donate.

STAR believes in empowering individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential by providing opportunities for growth and self-determination. The Employer of the Year Award is one of many ways STAR works to build stronger, more inclusive communities by celebrating businesses that lead the way in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For more information about STAR and the Employer of the Year Award, please visit www.startct.org.

About the New Canaan YMCA

Founded in 1954 by a group of community volunteers, the New Canaan YMCA is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization whose mission is to enrich all people in spirit, mind, and body. As an inclusive community service organization, the YMCA turns away no one for reasons of race, religion, or economic background and each year awards approximately $200,000 in direct financial assistance. Serving the communities of New Canaan, Pound Ridge, and South Salem, the YMCA also strives to partner with a variety of outside organizations to further its role as a community service provider.

About STAR Inc.

STAR Inc. has been serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Fairfield County for over 60 years. The organization offers a wide range of programs and services that promote independence, inclusion, and community involvement. Services include early intervention programs, life skills training, vocational development, residential support, and recreational activities designed to enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families.