HCA Florida Northside, Parc Center launch unique disability care collaboration

St. Petersburg, FL — HCA Florida Northside Hospital is proud to announce a new collaboration with Parc Center for Disabilities to support their Supported Employment Services program. This partnership welcomes volunteers from Parc to take shifts at the hospital, offering valuable on the job training and skill building opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

This initiative reflects HCA Florida Healthcare’s longstanding commitment to strengthening communities by addressing challenges through shared resources and partnerships. By working together, Northside Hospital and Parc are creating pathways to healthier, happier lives for everyone involved.

“Our relationship with Parc and their jobs program began when we hired one of their residents to join our dietary and nutrition team,” said Phil Marchesini, chief executive officer. “This expanded partnership to help train and develop additional participants allows us to play an even greater role in supporting more people with disabilities to become active contributors in our community.”

Parc’s Supported Employment Services program gives participants the support and skill development needed to interview and achieve full time roles at several local businesses.

Brian Rothey, assistant vice president of Adult Community Programs shared, “This partnership with Northside Hospital means so much to me personally and to all of us at Parc Center for Disabilities. By opening their doors, Northside Hospital is giving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities the chance to learn valuable job and social skills while being part of a true workplace community. These kinds of collaborations are essential not only do they prepare our individuals for future opportunities, but they also show what can happen when local businesses and organizations come together to build a more inclusive community. I’m truly grateful for Northside’s commitment to making a difference alongside us.”

Parc hopes to offer fully immersed experiences for 8-10 adults each year eliminating the historically challenged ‘sheltered workshop’ setting per the March 2023 CMS 1915(c) Waiver Federal requirements. The goal being to support competitive employment.

This partnership is a testament to the shared values of both organizations promoting dignity, independence, and opportunity for all.