Pictured: Nick at work at Sarasota Ford, where he recently celebrated one year of full-time employment. Nick's story is featured in Inclusion Revolution's new short film, Nick's Story, The Drive to Include. Photo credit: Inclusion Revolution.

Check out the staff roster at Sarasota Ford, and you’ll find Nick Lapinski, a Remote Experience Assistant who preps vehicles for sale. Nick is also a valued member of the dealership who has intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). A year ago, Sarasota Ford partnered with t Inclusion Revolution–a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that combats workforce exclusion through strategic business partnerships, job placements and success stories- to give Nick the opportunity to show what he could do.

With the recent release of its documentary Nick’s Story — The Drive to Include, Inclusion Revolution shares the impact of looking past a traditional résumé to recognize true potential. The short film chronicles Nick’s personal and professional journey.

Over the past year, Nick has become part of the workplace, working full-time with benefits. He lives independently and is a valued member of the Sarasota Ford team, trusted with responsibility and accepted by his coworkers as a friend and colleague.

“I can’t wait to have another person like [Nick] on the team,” says Sarasota Ford Service Porter, Jordan Cardena.

“I used to do detailing a lot, but Nick is by far the best, in my opinion,” adds Kevin Gabor, another of Nick’s coworkers. “I think every dealership needs somebody like Nick.”

“Too often, assumptions about people with IDD are made before their abilities are ever considered,” explains Beaver Shriver, founder of Inclusion Revolution. “Nick’s story shows what becomes possible when an employer is willing to see the individual first, recognize what they can contribute and give them an opportunity. I know Nick is going to continue to thrive in his job and continue to inspire people at Sarasota Ford and beyond."

Nick and his family are so grateful that Nick has the opportunity to do something that he loves.

“Doing my job is fun,” says Nick. “A big thank you to Beaver for getting my job at Sarasota Ford.”

Visit theinclusionrevolution.org to learn more.

Pictured: Nick at work at Sarasota Ford, where he recently celebrated one year of full-time employment. Nick's story is featured in Inclusion Revolution's new short film, Nick's Story, The Drive to Include. Photo credit: Inclusion Revolution.

Click here to watch the film.