The Able Trust - Because people want to work.

News

Table of Contents | Return to Main Newsletter Page

The Florida Grantor, Winter 2007

President's Message

This quarter I am retiring as President of The Able Trust. When I assumed this role in 1993, the Florida Endowment Foundation for Vocational Rehabilitation (as it was known then upon its creation in 1990), had two employees and granted about $80,000 a year. Currently, The Able Trust has eight employees and grants about $2 million annually, in addition to funding youth programs, the Business Leadership Network and other disability programs.

With the Florida GovernorÕs Alliance for Citizens with Disabilities (FGA) role, the High School/High Tech program has grown to 38 sites and the inception of the Youth Leadership Program and e-Mentoring program has proven to be highly successful.

Since its establishment, The Able Trust has awarded over $21 million to individuals with disabilities and nonprofit agencies throughout Florida for employment-related purposes. Thanks to many corporations and state organizations, our contributions and grants have grown over the years. The long-term endowment will ensure future grants and activities and now exceeds $20 million.

As I retire as President, I would like to thank the dedicated members of our Board of Directors and Ambassadors who have tirelessly served our constituents with passion. Many thanks to The Able Trust staff for their hard work and commitment. Thanks also to agency friends with whom I have worked over the years.

Finally, I would like to thank former Governor Jeb Bush and current Governor Charlie Crist, Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp and legislators for their support. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve Florida citizens with disabilities and I extend sincere best wishes for continued success to Dr. Susanne Homant, the new President of The Able Trust.