A local nonprofit is hosting a hiring event Thursday in Naples to assist those with physical and mental disabilities, helping them find employment and immerse themselves into the workforce.
"We help people with disabilities to obtain employment and to navigate their lives, so they can become self-sufficient if they can. For those that are not able to become self-sufficient, we help them to get as independent as they can be," said Idela Hernandez, the founder of the Employment Network of Southwest Florida.
The Employment Network of Southwest Florida's Annual Conference and Job Fair will host recruiters from:
- Naples Comprehensive Health (NCH)
- Lee Health
- Arthrex
- Marco Island's JW Marriott
"It's really difficult. It takes time because we need to find the perfect job that is a good match for that individual. They do have disabilities, many times a variety of disabilities, but they also have a variety of abilities. So we focus on the abilities they have and then try to find a job that matches their skills," said Hernandez.
The job fair is being held at the Hilton Naples from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- 9 a.m. — 12:30 p.m. (for employers)
- 1:30 p.m. — 5 p.m. (for job seekers)
"We are very excited. We expect to have employers in the morning, and we want to have a conference, discussing with their employers about what are the services, available for the employees to support them to be successful at work. Employers will be hearing about the American Disability Act, reasonable accommodations, and more. Then our job seekers will come in and learn how they can work together," said Hernandez.