our founder
"CRN was built out of love and acceptance."
Meet Cole Carusso
Cole Caruso, the visionary founder of Community Resource Network, embarked on this remarkable journey with a passion for making a difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Cole’s journey began at a young age with a regional theater in Sarasota, FL with a program for people with disabilities, where he volunteered and found his calling. Driven by a deep sense of giving back to the community, Cole continued to volunteer for years, shaping his belief that service to others was an integral part of his life.
Later, Cole acquired an agency providing in-home services and recognized the growing need for support in the IDD community. That realization was the catalyst for CRN, a mission-driven organization committed to being a consistent presence, advocate, and provider within the community.
From its inception, CRN focused on putting individuals first. He cherishes the profound acceptance and love within the IDD community, which became a guiding principle for CRN’s ethos.
In the early years, Cole experienced the direct impact of his work on individuals’ lives, shaping the organization’s commitment to compassion, dependability, and innovation. CRN grew steadily, expanding its services to include life skills programs and acquiring a fleet of vans—a significant milestone.
Today, CRN thrives under the legacy of its founder, continuing to prioritize individuals with IDD all throughout the state of Florida and valuing principles of fun, innovation, and community engagement. Cole’s vision, dedication, and leadership set CRN apart in the industry, helping it evolve, grow, and shape the future of care for individuals with IDD.