STARability Foundation selects Connor+Gaskins as builder for new campus

STARability Foundation, a leading organization dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, has selected Connor+Gaskins as the builder for the first phase of planned development for the new campus, expanding services and growth for participants and families across the region.

The project will transform an existing 42,000-square-foot, two-story building located on a five-acre parcel at 2655 Northbrook Drive in Naples into an inclusive, state-of-the-art program center in Florida, setting a new standard as a regional hub for people with IDD and their families. The renovation marks the beginning of a long-term, multi-phase vision to create a comprehensive, purpose-driven campus tailored to meet the growing needs of Southwest Florida.

“We are ecstatic to be a part of this historic project for STARability,” said Andrew Twetan, project lead and president and partner of Connor+Gaskins Studio. “We are confident CEO Karen Govern, the board, donors and partners are aligned to support a long-term plan for significant, steady growth, building a usable place and providing opportunities for more participants,” said Twetan. “It means a lot that we can be part of the community and create lasting change, really giving back to the people that live here. It also energizes our team and gives them purpose; they truly feel good about the work they are doing.”

The building team also includes several industry design leaders who are contributing their expertise to the project. CEO John Cooney and Senior Architect Renee Zepeda from Stofft Cooney Architects are overseeing architectural design; Lisa Kahn Allen, STARability board member and founder of Finding Sanctuary by Lisa Kahn Designs, is leading interior design; Christian Andrea with Architectural Land Design is guiding the landscape design for the campus; and Andrew Rath, vice president of Davidson Engineering is providing site planning.

“We are deeply grateful to the incredible team of partners who have come alongside us to bring this vision to life,” said Karen Govern, CEO of STARability Foundation. “The generosity, talent and heart of these well-respected leaders reflect the very spirit of inclusion and community that defines STARability. Their contributions are helping us build so much more than a campus – they are helping us create a legacy of opportunity, dignity and belonging for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.”

Connor+Gaskins will oversee preconstruction and preparation for the project, which includes renovation of the existing building to update and reconfigure the space to meet the needs of STARability and ensure practicality and longevity of use.

“We will be opening the top floor for administration needs and reconfiguring classrooms to enhance access and flexibility of spaces,” shared Twetan. “We are also adding a portico that will be welcoming and inviting and ensure safety and security. It will be filled with light and life; designed so participants can feel the love of staff and volunteers as they enter and prepare for activities.”

Connor+Gaskins will also be responsible for budgeting and timing for future phases, which include additional buildings on the campus.

Renovations are anticipated to begin this fall.