“I have always felt that education is the key for students and families to get good jobs and to be successful.” These words not only reflect the educational mindset of Alison Corner but also the mission of New Horizons of SWFL.
New Horizons is a local nonprofit that aims to empower under-resourced youth to achieve their full potential through tutoring, mentoring and faith-building.
“I knew that when I left being an administrator that whatever I did I would do something for children,” said Corner regarding her decision to volunteer at New Horizons. “That’s always been in my heart from having worked with children for 40 years.”
Corner has been an integral part of New Horizons during her six years with the organization. “She was on the ground running with projects and finding opportunities to assist with making sure that any additional stuff needed for the clubs was obtained.” stated Charlotte Nal, MNM, Director of Volunteerism. Corner first volunteered as a tutor and now serves as the Co-Chair of the Community Council for New Horizons. The council consists of representatives from different communities including Naples, Estero, Bonita Springs, and Fort Myers. She is responsible for recruiting new representatives from these communities and getting them involved with the mission through tutoring at the after-school programs, attending fundraising events, and supporting the various programs and projects throughout the school year.
Corner’s educational and career experience is extensive. She attended Tufts University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in child study and a master’s degree in education with a concentration in learning disabilities. Corner began work as a kindergarten teacher where she realized her passion for helping students with special needs. She became an early childhood coordinator in Lincoln and Newton, Massachusetts and eventually earned her certification as an administrator. Corner was a PK-4 principal in Lowell, Massachusetts at an urban elementary school for five years where she had the privilege of working with families who were refugees settling in the United States. The experience of dealing with people of diverse backgrounds helped make the transition of working with students at New Horizons seamless. “I felt very comfortable with the students, and I also felt drawn to them because of my experience working in Lowell,” stated Corner.
True volunteerism is about sharing hope and optimism with the world. By graciously offering your time, skills, and energy to infuse others with a feeling of hopefulness. “I feel anything that we can do as citizens to help our teachers, children and parents is very important,” stated Corner. This attitude is why she has impacted so many lives and helped spread a sense of hope, not just in New Horizons, but in the world.
About New Horizons of SWFL
New Horizons provides tutoring, mentoring and faith-building programs for more than 500 students annually in Southwest Florida. If you are interested in enrolling your child into one of our 10 trusted neighborhood clubs, call us at 239-948-4146.
Help students get the tools they need to succeed by volunteering or donating. Interested in joining the community council? Email the Director of Volunteerism at volunteer@newhorizonsofswfl.org to get connected today.
Give a Donation: https://bit.ly/3Ixz6IV