LaunchAbility® Announces Rick Van Hooser as New Executive Director

Nonprofit Veteran to Focus on Fundraising and Corporate Partnerships

LaunchAbility, which helps people with learning and intellectual disabilities find work and lead independent lives, announced today the appointment of non-profit veteran Rick Van Hooser as its new executive director. Previously with Big Thought, Van Hooser brings his extensive fundraising experience with leading nonprofit organizations to LaunchAbility.

“As our client population continues to grow as quickly as the corporate interest in hiring adults with diverse abilities, Rick Van Hooser’s leadership couldn’t come at a more exciting and necessary time for LaunchAbility,” said Karen Wald, president of LaunchAbility’s Board of Trustees. “Rick brings with him deep experience with large nonprofit organizations as well as an ability to work hand-in-hand with corporate partners. Our entire board agrees that under Rick’s leadership LaunchAbility will continue to serve our clients optimally and grow so that we can impact even more adults with diverse abilities.”

Van Hooser officially joined LaunchAbility on July 5, 2016. With a 10-year portfolio of success driving innovative strategies to large nonprofits, Van Hooser also served key roles with United Way of Tarrant County, American Heart Association, Autism Speaks and Muscular Dystrophy Association.

“I would like to thank the LaunchAbility Board of Trustees and staff for welcoming me to this incredible organization,” said Van Hooser. “With a history that spans over five decades, LaunchAbility is at a critical point in both opportunities and challenges.  I look forward to working with our employees, clients, donors  and corporate partners as we continue LaunchAbility’s vision to deliver much needed services that help bridge a path to independence.”

ABOUT LAUNCHABILITY^©

 WE ACKNOWLEDGE DISABILITIES. BUT EMPHASIZE POSSIBILITIES. 

For over five decades LaunchAbility®—formerly Special Care & Career Services— has been expanding worlds for adults with disabilities and the families who care for them.  Our award-winning programs are the launching points to self-reliance and poise for these adults with diverse abilities. 

LaunchAbility’s supported employment services range from career development/coaching, resume/interview preparation, job identification and on-the-job coaching for clients, as well as disability etiquette training and consulting for employers. The greatest outcome for people with disabilities occurs when their abilities are aligned with the needs of the workforce. Placing adults with diverse abilities in gainful employment is life altering. Not only for them but for the companies who hire them. For more information about LaunchAbility®, visit www.LaunchAbility.org or call (972) 991-6777 ext. 7120.

LaunchAbility® is a registered trademark of LaunchAbility.