The city of Cape Coral has been recognized for its efforts to welcome individuals with disabilities among those it hires.

The Agency for Persons with Disabilities, Blind Services, and Vocational Rehabilitation recognized 12 businesses with an Exceptional Employer Award on Monday for inclusive hiring practices.

The city of Cape Coral was the only municipality so recognized.

The 17th annual celebration was held at the state capitol as part of recognizing October as Disability Employment Awareness Month as declared by Gov. Ron DeSantis’ proclamation.

“It’s great the city is willing to hire people with disabilities regardless of what disability they may have,” said Milena Park, Special Populations supervisor. “It’s amazing the city has a program where people can make money and have support as well.”

The Exceptional Employer Awards are presented to companies that exhibit a commitment to employing and retaining people with unique abilities.

“Under Gov. DeSantis’ decisive leadership, we will continue to promote an economic environment that strengthens Florida businesses and fuels job creation for all Floridians,” said Dane Eagle, secretary of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. “DEO is proud to support all Floridians in finding meaningful employment through great programs like the Florida Unique Abilities Partner Program.”

Cape Coral has been employing individuals who have a disability for more than 40 years. There are currently 48 people with unique abilities working for the city in a variety of positions. One person works at Pops Café. About 40 individuals work in the recycling program and in the park maintenance program.

“At Pop’s Café they do everything from prepping foods the chefs cook and work alongside the cooks to prepare lunch at the restaurant,” Park said. “We also go around the city and pick up the recycling at buildings throughout the city and bring it to a location where Waste Pro picks it up and brings it to the recycling plant.”

These employees also lay down mulch in city parks, ensure trails are clean and nice, and maintain all of the buildings. The city is flexible in scheduling shifts to ensure its employees are able to access transportation services.

“We also work at Rotary Park in their nursery, weeding and laying mulch, trimming trees, anything that has to do with the outdoors,” Park said.

These employees have a job coach with them to provide any needed support wherever they are working.

“I’m proud of where I work and that we were able to get this award. We are the only municipality to get this award,” Park said. “It’s a great accomplishment. You don’t find programs like this in government.”

APD supports people with developmental disabilities to live, learn, and work in their communities. The agency serves more than 58,000 Floridians with severe forms of autism, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, intellectual disabilities, and more.

For more information about the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, visit APDcares.org or call toll free (866) APD-CARES.