Award recognizes innovative collaboration that pairs hands-on learning with inclusive career pathways for individuals with disabilities
SUNRISE, Florida (March 17, 2026) Arc Broward and Abandoned Pet Rescue have been named recipients of the Brown & Brown Non-Profit Organization of the Year: Collaboration Award, a prestigious regional honor recognizing partnerships that produce measurable community impact. The award was presented by 211 Broward and Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino at the 15th annual Community Care Plan Non-Profit Awards.
The award highlights the strategic collaboration between Abandoned Pet Rescue and Arc Broward’s Animal Care Certification, a program of Arc Educates, a social enterprise that provides career training and rapid credentialing for adults with disabilities across five distinct fields: animal care, hospitality operations, culinary arts, healthcare operations and material handling.
“We are grateful to 211 Broward and Brown & Brown for the recognition, and to Abandoned Pet Rescue for its ongoing partnership,” said Julie Price, Arc Broward President and CEO. “Arc Broward depends on relationships with companies and organizations that believe, as we do, that adults with disabilities deserve every opportunity to work, grow and thrive. When we align with partners who share that vision and open their doors to our students, the results speak for themselves and lead to greater independence, deeper community connection and lives that are truly fulfilling.”
The Animal Care program partners adults with disabilities with Abandoned Pet Rescue, the only no-kill animal shelter located in Fort Lauderdale, to gain real-world experience in shelter operations and animal welfare. Participants build practical skills while working alongside shelter staff in a supportive environment designed to foster confidence and job readiness, and graduate with recognized credentials that strengthen their career prospects in the growing animal care industry.
“Receiving this award is especially meaningful because it shows two long-standing organizations in Broward County that are working together to help a specific group of people and pets in our community that both need our support,” said Kara Starzyk, Executive Director of Abandoned Pet Rescue. “Knowing the quality of education and experience that the students are gaining led me to hire two of the graduates to work at APR. I encourage other employers to interview graduates from this program because of their qualifications as well as the ongoing support that Arc Broward provides to ensure their success.”
Arc Broward serves individuals with disabilities and other barriers to independence across Broward County. Its Arc Educates social enterprise reflects the organization’s mission to expand access to economic opportunity by connecting participants in credentialing programs with community partners who provide hands-on training environments and transferrable skills valued by prospective employers.
For information about the certificate programs offered through Arc Educates, call 954-746-9400 or visit arcbroward.com/educates.
About Arc Broward
In 2026, Arc Broward proudly celebrates 70 years as a leading provider of services that empower individuals with disabilities and their families to thrive. Today, Arc Broward is focused on opening doors, creating pathways and expanding opportunities through 24 programs at 16 locations across Broward County, serving individuals with disabilities from preschool children to adults and seniors. Its two social enterprises, Arc Educates and Arc Culinary, help people with disabilities and various employment barriers gain education, experience and employment. For more information about Arc Broward, visit arcbroward.com or call 954-746-9400. Follow Arc Broward on social media @arcbroward.
About Abandoned Pet Rescue
Abandoned Pet Rescue (APR) is the only no-kill animal shelter located in Fort Lauderdale since 1996. APR rescues, heals, and rehomes abandoned and neglected cats and dogs while promoting responsible pet ownership and advocating for animal welfare in the South Florida community. APR provides comprehensive daily care for 100 cats and 50 dogs and found loving homes for more than 10,000 animals in its 30 years of helping pets and people. APR is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that relies on volunteers and donations to save the lives of pets in need. For more information, visit www.abandonedpetrescue.org.