STARC’s New Facility To Be Named After The Koles

Slidell is called home to many and Ronnie and Gardner Kole are among them. This Valentine’s Day the couple was honored by STARC.

STARC’s, a nonprofit in Louisiana, mission is to provide ” a lifetime of Services, Training, Advocacy, Resources and Community Connections for individuals with intellectual and developmental disABILITIES in St. Tammany and four surrounding parishes.” STARC has dedicated the facility that houses the adult work-training program to the Koles.

The 26,0000-square-foot building opened in early 2018 and is an important part of the mission for STARC. A sign has been installed above the front entrance reading “In Honor of Ronnie & Gardner Kole” who has raised over $1.5 million for nonprofits through their annual Jazz on the Bayou fundraiser.

“There’s no way we can do what we do today without such generous support. We’re in this building today because of your support,” STARC Executive Director Mark Baham told the Koles. “We wanted to do something special for you to let you know who much you mean to us.

Ronnie Kole, originally from Chicago, is a world-renowned pianist. He has played for U.S. presidents and Pope John Paul II. When he was a child, he was diagnosed with a heart condition and was placed in a home for handicapped children. STARC has a special place in his heart.

“I grew up in the environment of handicapped people, and of course handicapped is just a word,” he said. “It has nothing to do with the ability of people who are disabled.”

During the ceremony the crowd was serenaded by Kole as he played “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “Amazing Grace.” STARC described the ceremony as a way to say thanks to the couple.

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