What Inclusive Employment Really Looks Like in Southwest Florida
- Employment Network of SW Florida
- 4 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Inclusive employment is a phrase many people have heard before.
But for families, employers, and even the community, it’s not always clear what it truly means in real life.
At Employment Network of Southwest Florida, inclusive employment isn’t about charity.
It’s about opportunity.
Support.
And long-term success.
This is what inclusive employment actually looks like in Southwest Florida.
What Inclusive Employment Really Means
Inclusive employment is not just about helping someone get hired.
It’s about:
Understanding each person’s strengths
Matching them with the right work environment
Providing the support needed to succeed
And staying involved long after the first day on the job
For adults with disabilities, meaningful employment is a pathway to confidence, independence, and financial stability.
For families, it brings peace of mind and reassurance.
For employers, it creates stronger, more diverse workplaces.
Inclusive employment works best when it’s intentional, ongoing, and personal.
What Inclusive Employment Looks Like in Real Life
Every journey is different, but the goal is always the same:
real work, real responsibility, and real progress.
Carmelie — A New Opportunity
Carmelie was recently hired at Culver’s.
This new role represents more than a paycheck. It’s a new routine, new responsibilities, and a chance to grow in a supportive environment.
Moments like this matter.
They show what’s possible when opportunity meets preparation and support.
Grace — Doing What She Loves
Grace also started working at Culver’s, doing what she enjoys most: customer service.
She loves working with people, and that enthusiasm shines through in her role.
Inclusive employment works best when individuals are placed in positions that align with their interests and strengths.
Grace’s story is a great example of that alignment in action.
Ivan Garcia – Santiago — Consistency and Retention
Getting hired is an important first step, but retention is just as critical.
Ivan Garcia – Santiago has reached 30 days on the job as a Customer Service team member at Installation Made Easy, located at Floor & Decor.
Showing up every day, learning the role, and building confidence takes commitment—and support.
Job retention milestones like this reflect stability, growth, and long-term potential.
Why Job Retention Matters as Much as Hiring
Inclusive employment doesn’t stop at “you’re hired.”
Retention matters because:
It builds confidence and routine
It supports financial independence
It helps individuals grow within their roles
And it reassures families that the support system is working
At Employment Network of Southwest Florida, job coaching and follow-up are key parts of the process.
Our goal is not just employment—but sustainable, long-term success.
The Role of Employment Network of Southwest Florida
Founded in 2013, Employment Network of Southwest Florida (ENSWFL) is dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities through meaningful employment.
As a certified vendor of Vocational Rehabilitation and an Approved Member of the American Dream Employment Network, ENSWFL provides comprehensive employment support for adults with disabilities across Southwest Florida.
What sets ENSWFL apart is our commitment to going beyond minimum requirements.
We offer individualized job coaching, ongoing workplace support, and guidance for both job seekers and employers who want to foster inclusive workplaces.
Our mission is simple:
to help individuals achieve financial independence and become fully contributing members of the community.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re a parent, guardian, or family member of a young adult with a disability, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
Support is available.
Guidance is available.
Real opportunities are possible.
➜ Book an appointment to talk about next steps
Or call us at (239) 452-4020
About Employment Network of Southwest Florida & Idela Hernandez
Employment Network of Southwest Florida supports adults with disabilities in securing meaningful employment and long-term success.
Idela Hernandez, Executive Director, brings over 20 years of experience helping individuals with disabilities return to work and achieve self-sufficiency. She holds a BS in Human Services from Florida Gulf Coast University and an MS in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Kentucky. Idela is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) and a Community Partner Work Incentives Counselor (CPWIC).
Her leadership and dedication continue to shape inclusive employment opportunities throughout Southwest Florida.
Contact Information:
📞 (239) 452-4020
📍 3050 Horseshoe Dr N, Suite 158, Naples, FL 34104