Non-Profit Helps Special Needs Adults Prepare for Independence

Just under 30 minutes north of Orlando in Casselberry, Inspire of Central Florida’s operations are in full swing bringing empowerment, connection and growth for adults with special needs.

The non-profit started in the 80’s in Sanford and relocated to Casselberry in the 90’s, where they have grown into a life-changing resource, offering programs that promote independence, skill development, and community integration.

Lilly Continanzi, who’s been with the organization since 2022 is moved by the people she’s able to help. She says, “My favorite part about working at Inspire is the joy that they bring to really everyone. It's not just me. Anytime that we come out to the Learning Center, they're so happy to see you. They shout your name from all the way across the floor. And it just makes my day a little brighter.”

At the core of Inspire’s mission is the belief that everyone deserves the chance to lead a fulfilling and self-sufficient life. Through initiatives like Operation GROW (Getting Real Opportunities for Work), Inspire provides hands-on employment training. Whether it's crafting in their woodshop or learning practical skills through their Contract Fulfillment Center, participants gain valuable work experience while supporting local businesses with real-world solutions like bulk mailing and assembly services.

Lilly says, “Through the Contract Fulfillment Center, we provide opportunities for local companies to partner with us to have bulk mailers and things sent out for their marketing needs, and that provides an opportunity for individuals to learn work experience as well as be part of the community.”

For local businesses, partnering with Inspire isn’t just a good deed—it’s an opportunity to make a tangible difference. By collaborating with their Contract Fulfillment Center or supporting employment initiatives, companies can directly contribute to a stronger, more inclusive community while meeting their own operational needs.

For families who are looking for the type of support that Inspire offers, Lilly says their services are funded through a variety of streams. They work with Agency for Adults with Disabilities, which has a specific Medicaid waiver that helps individuals participate in their services. There are also potential options through private pay or scholarships which are available through the Seminole County Community Assistance Program.

The joy at Inspire is infectious and there’s a lot of good coming from the work being done at Inspire. When asked why she loves what she does, Lilly responded, “I feel like we're making an impact in their daily life. A lot of the individuals have been able to seek employment in the community and for them to be able to earn that paycheck and build those skills and just be a little bit more independent that they maybe ever thought they would be. It's very rewarding for us.”