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The feeling of helplessness when seeing someone experiencing health complications and being limited in our own abilities to provide aid is something we can all relate to. For Yaneli, she grew up witnessing her grandfather going in and out of surgeries. She marveled at the idea of surgeons being able to help her grandfather by performing an operation that would allow him to feel better. She pondered if she could one day be able to do the same for others.

Yaneli began her journey at New Horizons of SWFL as a sixth grader at Estero Super Teen Club. A relatively reserved child with a dream to help others but needing the tools to get her there. She often doubted her capabilities and would limit herself, but she persisted in her desire to become a better student. “Whenever I needed help in my academics or if I needed to talk to someone about my personal life, New Horizons would help me by putting me with a volunteer to get help with homework or even sit down with me to talk,” Yaneli shared. Over the years she grew in confidence revealing her true potential as a responsible and academically achieving student.

She credits New Horizons for motivating her to pursue rigorous classes. “When I started New Horizons I only took normal classes but the staff showed me that I could do more and sure enough I could,” Yaneli admitted. She moved into advanced level classes and then started the two year dual enrollment program to earn college credits. By the time she walked across the stage to receive her high school diploma she had also obtained an associates degree.

Since the age of fourteen Yaneli was fascinated with the medical field. Dissecting frogs and pigs in science class sparked her interest and when she witnessed her grandfather’s medical trials this fueled her dedication to becoming a surgeon. However, pursuing a career in health sciences can be an arduous path. “One of the volunteers was once in the medical field and I was able to talk to them about their journey of becoming a doctor which was actually very helpful,” Yaneli stated. The Bob and Ellen scholarship recipient has jumped on every opportunity to advance in her career and already has experience working as a clinical tech at a hospital.

At the New Horizons graduation ceremony in May, Yanelli shared the following words to her peers and parents. “New Horizons has helped us become better versions of ourselves whether it has been through academics, faith, or mentoring. New Horizons has helped me realize that even if I don’t have that perfect grade, it’s okay. If I have doubts about my faith, it’s okay, and if I make a mistake, it’s okay. All I can do is try my best.”

New Horizons opens the door to higher education by equipping students with resources to succeed. The objective is for students, like Yaneli, to develop a plan for their future. Yaneli also participated in College Bound, a New Horizons program where students receive personalized help applying and preparing for college and vo-tech programs.

For over two years Yaneli has been working alongside middle school students in the Super Teen Club. “Many of the students I’ve worked with have told me in the beginning that they don’t want to go to college or try in school but having them throughout the years they told me that they were inspired by me to actually try in school and that they want to go to college because they want to succeed,” said Yaneli.

Currently Yaneli, is pursuing her degree in Biology at Florida Gulf Coast University and works part time at New Horizons. She plans to attend medical school and aspires to become a surgeon and help people like her grandpa.

Help students like Yaneli take steps towards higher education by volunteering at a Super Teen Club or donating to support programs where students get the tools they need to make a plan for their future.

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Do you remember who taught you how to tie your shoes? Did they use a fun story that includes a fuzzy woodland animal to walk you through it? If you were anything like me, it might’ve taken you a couple tries with the instructions being repeated at least twice. Now imagine being taught to tie your shoes, but the person is speaking a language you are unfamiliar with. This can make a challenging skill seem impossible to learn. This is an example of what many students across Southwest Florida experience every day. They are being challenged to learn new skills in a language that is also new to them.

Help is Here

Maria is a 5th grader who faces these challenges. She is fairly new to the country and struggling with her schoolwork due to the language barrier. Her parents wanted to help her but their efforts were limited. Fortunately, a Super Kids Club was located in their neighborhood at a local church. Super Kids Club is New Horizons of Southwest Florida’s K-5th grade after-school programming where students receive homework help, follow a comprehensive online learning program, and are encouraged by staff and volunteers. The parents quickly realized that the services New Horizons provides are exactly what Maria needed, so they took the steps of enrolling their daughter.

Maria joined New Horizons in January. After school, she would make her way to Super Kids Club, always walking in with a friendly smile and a positive attitude. Maria desired to get better at reading and writing. “What inspired me was her commitment to learning and her smile,” said Jamail, the Super Kids Club Director. As the school year came to an end, Maria had made improvements to her grades but still wasn’t grasping the language.

Exemplary Exceptions

During the summer, New Horizons offers programming to keep students engaged in learning while school is out. Elementary school students participate in Super Kids Reading Camp while middle and high school students attend the Super Teens Leadership Camp. As an incoming sixth-grader, Maria would have normally started summer in the Super Teens Leadership Camp. However, New Horizons staff and volunteers who had worked with Maria recommended she attend the Super Kids Reading Camp. This four-week program focuses on reinforcing reading skills so students retain the concepts they learned at school over the summer break.

One volunteer was inspired by Maria’s story and wanted to ensure she got the preparation she desperately needed. Mrs. Carol, a retired teacher, decided to commit to attending every day of the camp to provide one-on-one instruction to Maria. This is out of the box as students are typically grouped with others in the same grade level during the instructional part of the camp. Overall, Maria received 40 hours of one-on-one instruction from Mrs. Carol during reading camp and throughout that time they developed a wonderful relationship. “She’s great and her reading is getting better,” Mrs. Carol said.

By the end of Super Kids Reading Camp, Maria had an 11% increase in the number of words she processed per minute, much improving her reading fluency. Maria has grown in confidence and is better prepared to enter middle school. In the fall, she will proceed her journey with New Horizons in the Super Teens Club program, where she will continue to receive support to face the challenges of learning a new language and succeeding in school.

About New Horizons

New Horizons provides tutoring, mentoring and character 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.

If you would like to help students like Maria grow in their confidence and improve in their school work, consider volunteering and supporting New Horizons.

Donate Today: https://bit.ly/3Ixz6IV

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Familiar Frustrations

Parents want to see their children succeed and will do what it takes to ensure they get the resources they need to do so. When Edwin’s parents faced the familiar frustrations of assisting their child with homework, they wanted better for him. They learned about New Horizons and were eager to enroll him into Super Kids Club (SKC), our K-5th grade after-school programming where students receive homework help, follow a comprehensive online learning program, and are encouraged by staff and volunteers.

Edwin was one of the first students to join Covenant Super Kids Club, when it opened two years ago. The shy and reserved third grader read at a first grade level with grades in the low 60’s. Unfortunately, COVID forced the club to shut down after just two months. Edwin’s parents were desperate to help their son so they agreed to enroll him into Super Kids Reading Camp which was virtual that summer. Although navigating learning through a computer screen came with its challenges, Edwin flourished with his teacher during camp and started coming out of his shell.

Then came fourth grade. His first quarter grades were low but he worked hard. He had made major improvements with reading and now struggled with math. At SKC he did extra math facts practice. He soon realized that math was, as he called it, “a piece of cake.” Especially, once he memorized his multiplication facts. Each quarter his math grade increased and by the end of the third quarter he had achieved an ‘A’. His reading had also improved from D’s to B’s in the three years he has been at New Horizons.

Propelled to Success

“Watching his 5th grade promotion ceremony was bitter sweet, especially when I heard his name called for the President’s Award for Educational Achievement,” recalled Holly Thermo, Covenant SKC Director. The Covenant SKC launched in January of 2020 with 10 kids. This year they had their first class of fifth grade graduates, one of which was Edwin. At the end of the school year party, Edwin’s parents joined the festivities and were beaming with pride. “My son, my son!” exclaimed Felisa Lopez, as she took photographs and celebrated his achievements.

Edwin is still a quiet boy but has transformed into a confident and brilliant student. His parents felt restricted in their efforts to assist their struggling son, yet they made a decision that has not only brought them joy but has propelled Edwin into a path of educational success. His journey doesn’t end here as he is currently in the Super Teen Leadership Camp and in the fall will continue to be empowered to reach his full potential in Super Teen Club, which is New Horizons 6th-12th grade after-school programming.

About New Horizons

New Horizons provides tutoring, mentoring and character 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.

If you would like to help students like Edwin grow in their confidence and improve in their school work consider volunteering of your time and supporting New Horizons through a donation.

Donate Today: https://bit.ly/3Ixz6IV

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Learning Outside the Classroom

You probably remember the time you reeled in your first fish. Do you recall the feeling of confidence after your hard work of learning a new skill paid off? There are many benefits to teaching children how to fish. The Freedom Waters Foundation has partnered with New Horizons of Southwest Florida to provide fishing opportunities to middle and high school students in our Super Teen Club programs.

Each year Freedom Waters Foundation hosts fishing tournaments for under-resourced youth in Naples. Volunteer fishing mentors introduce the sport of fishing to teen boys and girls with the goal of enhancing their life skills. In the fall female fishing mentors host teen girls during the Heels and Reels Fishing Tournament while in the Spring male fishing mentors work alongside teen boys in the Buoys and Bait Fishing Tournament. For the Buoys and Bait Fishing Tournament “the mentors are all men who enjoy fishing and helping young men learn and grow with life and fishing skills, sharing what they love with young men and making a great day for all of them too,” said Debra Frenkel, founder of Freedom Waters Foundation.

New Horizons truly values this partnership with Freedom Waters Foundation. It introduces students to water exploration which has been embedded into the fabric of the organization, hence the name ‘New Horizons’. Debra and founders of New Horizons, Ellen and Bob Nichols are friends. Prior to the partnership Bob, a former captain, instructed a sea education program that included sailing outings for the teen students. Freedom Waters Foundation, who share a passion for the water and helping children, provides an unique opportunity for students to board a boat and learn about fishing techniques from skilled mentors. New Horizons and Freedom Waters Foundation have partnered for over ten years.

If You Teach a Boy to Fish

This year 18 New Horizons’ students participated in the Buoys and Bait fishing tournament on April 30, which took place at the Naples Boat Club. Gilmer is one of several Super Teen Club students that attended. He had fished on one occasion before this but not in an open water setting. “I felt like I was going to fall off the boat and I started praying,” he admitted. According to Andrea Holley, Director of Programs, most of the boys who participated, had their first experience on a boat that day. “They also learned a bit about different types of sea life and the different species of fish in our Southwest Florida waters,” explained Andrea.

“I got the hang of fishing really easily,” said Gilmer. His boat captain helped him track how many fish he reeled in. “I caught some bass but mostly catfish,” he said. Gilmer earned the distinction of winning the award and trophy for the most fish caught during Saturday’s expedition. He acknowledges that his mentor was helpful in keeping an accurate tally and that other students were not as meticulous in reporting their catches. Regardless, Gilmer’s recognition is one he and his Club Director, Kevin Alexander, are very proud of.

“[Gilmer is] one of our most creative, artistic, and enthusiastic students, stated Kevin. This fishing trip inspired Gilmer and made a lasting impression on him. So much so that when he returned to Super Teen Club from this memorable weekend he tapped into his artistic skill set and created a fish using cardboard and other supplies as a tribute to his victory. When asked if he would participate again he replied: “yes, it was fun!” Each student enjoyed fishing in the open waters and learning from experienced mentors. “My favorite part was when they gave me a fishing rod,” he exclaimed! Each student was gifted a fishing rod and bait, so they could continue to explore this hobby.

Immersive educational experiences like these create a lasting impression on young minds. As a result senses are heightened, imagination is unlocked, and curiosity is sparked all the while expanding their knowledge in a setting outside the standard four walls of a classroom or club. “This experience broadens their knowledge of the world around them,” said Andrea. We are thankful for this partnership with Freedom Waters Foundation and look forward to many more tournaments to come. To learn more about Freedom Waters Foundation visit their website: https://freedomwatersfoundation.org/

About New Horizons

New Horizons provides tutoring, mentoring and character 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 like Gilmer grow in their confidence by collaborating with New Horizons in becoming a community partner or by donating to support these type of excursions for our students.

Donate Today: https://bit.ly/3Ixz6IV

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Tom Hazell recognized by SWFL Inc. for serving under-resourced students in Bonita Springs.

On Wednesday May 25th, the annual INCredible awards took place in Bonita Springs at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort. The event showcases the impact business and civic leaders are making in the Southwest Florida region. At the celebration, finalists were announced for SWFL Citizen of the Year, Small Business of the Year, Nonprofit of the Year, Veteran-Owned Business of the Year, INCredible Award and Innovation Award.

Tom Hazell has been named the 2022 SWFL Citizen of the Year award. According to SWFL Inc “the SWFL Citizen of the Year honors an individual who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the betterment of Southwest Florida over the past 12 months.” Hazell has been involved with New Horizons of SWFL, a tutoring, mentoring and character-building program, for over 18 years. He volunteered with the organization for two years and shortly after joined the staff and has been with New Horizons ever since.

Hazell assists in our elementary programming at a Super Kids Club at the First United Methodist church of Bonita Springs. He enjoys sharing a devotion with the elementary school children and encouraging them as they face educational and personal challenges. “I look at these children and see their potential. I see where they can go, how successful they can be, their education, their spiritual walk with God, and also their community activities,” expressed Tom. For many students he has become an inspiring mentor. “Mr. Tom has been a faithful part of helping students in this community for so many years,” said Jamail Aikens, Director of the Super Kids Club at First United Methodist church.

Recently, a student who is still learning to read and write, wanted to write a note for Hazell in appreciation for all his support and guidance. She asked her volunteer to help her write down what she wanted to say. “Mr. Tom, thank you for talking about Jesus, because now I have learned about Jesus. I now know about Jesus and so does my Grandpa. My Grandpa and I go to church to learn about Jesus and pray to God. Thank you for New Horizons – Now Miss Rita shows me how to learn and I can read now, thank you Mr. Tom,” is what Margarita shared in her heartfelt note. “It is a privilege to be able to meet with these students, work with them, and see the progress of them,” Tom shared.

Video courtesy of M&M Multimedia LLC

Hazell continues to be an actively engaged member of the community by shaping the lives and minds of under-resourced students in Southwest Florida. “When you have incredibly dedicated staff that truly believe in the vision for the students, we see firsthand lives change. We have comments and letters from students and parents and the life-changing impact Tom has made in the lives of students in our community. That is what makes him worthy of this award,” said Dr. Linda Cunning, Executive Director of New Horizons.

About New Horizons

New Horizons of Southwest Florida effectively changes the lives of under-resourced students by providing tutoring, mentoring and character-building experiences at its neighborhood clubs. Together with a dedicated group of community volunteers, New Horizons equips K-12 students with the tools to reach their full potential and graduate from high school with a plan for the future. To learn more about how you can get involved visit newhorizonsofswfl.org or to support our programs click here.

Donate Today: https://bit.ly/3Ixz6IV

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Volunteer Spotlight

Almost 10 years ago, at the confluence of their working and retirement lives, Steve and Mary LaBelle moved permanently to Southwest Florida. Many dream of what retirement will look like, and what to do with their time and energy. For Steve and Mary retirement looked like giving back and volunteering. When they decided to get involved, they looked to their church, First Presbyterian Church of Bonita Springs, who introduced them to New Horizons of Southwest Florida.

From there, they carved out a path of their own at New Horizons of SWFL while making a difference in the lives of under-resourced students. Steve, a longtime chief financial officer and Mary, a math teacher, began volunteering in a number of ways at New Horizons. They first found their place mentoring and tutoring teenagers in the Super Teens Club at one of our oldest sites, Rosemary Super Teens that is now housed at Estero Church.

Stepping Up

Early on in the pandemic, when students were participating in online learning, the LaBelle’s supported students’ academic needs virtually. As many volunteers stepped back, Mary stepped up doing Zoom tutoring. They are an integral part of the network supporting our students, families and mission.

They both find joy in supporting the students at New Horizons. Steve said, “Every once in a while you really engage with the students, and build that trust. I spend time helping with math homework, but the kids typically just want the answers to get their homework done. Some of the time though, they really learn the concept and have that aha moment, or ask a question that indicates that they understand the concept. That makes it meaningful. They learned something and I didn’t just give them the answer.”

A former student and friend that Mary and Steve once tutored said, “We were especially mentored by one tutor, Mary. She and her husband, Steve, helped and encouraged us all the time. Once, when we had a school fundraiser event, they gave us a note saying, ‘We’re praying for you.’ We really appreciate the LaBelle’s and our other tutors.” According to Steve, “the most important thing for me are the kids and helping the kids get through school.” Mary echoed that sentiment, saying, “That’s the focus and what we care about. It is just what’s necessary and we do whatever we can to help them stay safe, make good choices and get them through school and into some kind of career.”

Doing More

Mary has always wanted to help the students go one step further. “I like to help middle schoolers set goals and realistic dreams for their futures. I try to inspire the students: work hard now, focus on homework, reading and activities.” She believes that will help the kids form a vision of what their future could be, giving them a sense of hope, pride and confidence. “These kids deserve the best. They’re great kids,” Steve said. There is no greater feeling than helping students grow intellectually, emotionally and spiritually.

The LaBelle’s faith and dedication to the students has been unwavering through their years of involvement. Additionally, Steve serves as a board member and Treasurer while Mary serves as co-chair of New Horizons’ Community Council, which works to raise awareness of New Horizons’ mission within 16 residential communities in Southwest Florida.

Earlier this year the Community Council hosted a book drive for Super Kids and Super Teens Club students. Mary was instrumental in getting supporters involved, including their church, First Presbyterian Church. She, with the help of Council members, graciously sorted through hundreds of donated books, which resulted in over 400 books being given to students in February for “I love to read month.”

Recently at the Volunteer Appreciation Reception, Mary was recognized as Volunteer of the Year for the Estero Super Teens Club. Reymond, the Director of the club highlighted, “She has been working hard the whole school year, providing assistance to the middle school kids, with a lot of patience and dedication. She also did an amazing job bringing lots of books that were well received by the students…Mrs. Mary is a passionate person and moved by the love of God to do good for those around her.”

Thinking of Tomorrow

The LaBelle’s support doesn’t stop there. In addition to providing their time and talent, they also financially support the work of New Horizons. Steve and Mary are annual donors and have committed to a legacy gift to support the mission of New Horizons long into the organization’s future. “We both came from families that believed in giving back to our church and colleges and to share what you have,” Mary said. “I think volunteering gives life a sense of meaning, not just living for yourself, but giving of yourself to help someone else. We can help. We want to give to what we’re passionate about. The people involved with New Horizons – students, staff and volunteers grow in their faith in this faith-based program. ”

About New Horizons of SWFL 

New Horizons of Southwest Florida effectively changes the lives of under-resourced students by providing tutoring, mentoring and character-building experiences at its neighborhood clubs. Together with a dedicated group of community volunteers, New Horizons equips K-12 students with the tools they need to reach their full potential and graduate from high school with a plan for the future.

Help students take steps towards higher education by volunteering. If you are interested in making a planned gift visit: newhorizonsofswfl.org/yourlegacy
Donate Today: https://bit.ly/3Ixz6IV

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At the beginning of the school year Jonathan started to miss school often. He was a timid fourth grader who lacked motivation in his school work as well as experienced difficulties with learning. He also often complained of stomach aches to his mom, so she took him to several doctors to identify the problem. His frequent absences from classes and New Horizons’ after school tutoring, were compounding and putting him further behind in school. His mom was on the verge of losing her job because she had taken off so much time to address Jonathan’s struggles.

Cry For Help

Super Kids Club Director, Jamail Aikens, was concerned about Jonathan and the issues he was having in the club. He urged Jonathan’s mother to set-up a meeting with the school. Once the meeting was set, Jonathan’s mother requested that Jamail attend as well. The principal, three of Jonathan’s teachers, his mother and Jamail met to review and discuss his various issues and performance. Due to a lack of official diagnosis from any of the doctor visits, it was concluded that the stomach aches were merely an excuse to avoid school.

During the meeting an action plan was put in place by the team to help Jonathan succeed; he now had a safety net to support him. A communication strategy was developed for his school work. Jamail planned to notify Jonathan’s mother if he didn’t complete his homework at Super Kids Club, so he could work on it at home. However, when the translator explained this to the mother in Spanish, she responded through the translator that she could not read. So she wouldn’t be able to understand the text, let alone help Jonathan with his assignments. She remained optimistic though and continued to speak highly of New Horizons and relayed through the interpreter how much she appreciates the support provided to Jonathan. She also mentioned that Jamail was like a second father to him.

Jamail mentioned, “At the conclusion of the meeting, the principal pulled me aside and said he was almost in tears as he read my emails, because in all of his years of administration, he had never seen anyone advocate for students like New Horizons.” Due to the language barrier that the mother had with the school, Jamail had personally assisted the mother in setting up the meeting by reaching out directly to the principal. The dedication to support a student had left an obvious impression on the principal. However, this is the way New Horizons’ staff advocates for all of its students in its programs. Club directors go to great lengths to champion their students such as attending parent-teacher meetings, helping source basic necessities, and providing spiritual support through prayer. A verse that propels Jamail is found in Hebrews 13:16 which says: “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased” (Heb 13:16, New Living Translation).

Caught In the Act

Since then, Jonathan has missed very little school and has found a new best friend who also attends Super Kids Club. Jonathan also participates in Super Boys Club, a program where fourth and fifth graders prepare for their transition into middle school. Jamail leads the Super Boys Club Jonathan attends. They recently completed a unit about self-esteem to help children discover their own unique talents and qualities, and to value their own strengths. But also teach them that feeling special doesn’t mean feeling better than others. “It could be during this time he learned to become more introspective. However, his concern seems to be innate for others,” explained Jamail. Jonathan has worked hard to overcome his struggles, which is reflected in his higher grades. Jamail and the teachers have also witnessed a notable transformation in his attitude and self-esteem.

“We often don’t realize the impact we’re having,” Jamail reflected. When students come to Super Kids Club it’s not just their grades that improve. They grow in their confidence as they receive mentorship and learn character building themes that they can apply and put into practice. There was such a time, when Jonathan was out shopping with his family, that they came across an unhoused person who was sitting next to the store holding a sign that read, “I have two kids, need food and diapers.” Courageously, Jonathan went up to him and asked if he could help. Since the person did not speak Spanish, Jonathan explained to his parents that the person needed assistance and asked his father if they could help. Jonathan’s parents were happy to give the man a donation. “My heart told me to help,” exclaimed Jonathan!

Confidence is Key

Now when you meet Jonathan, he is upbeat and motivated to tackle his assignments. His math grade has increased mightily by 36%, improving from 60% to 96%. “I love doing math,” Jonathan mentioned. He has been attending Super Kids Club since 2017 and is on track to complete fourth grade. He is currently looking forward to participating in Super Kids Reading Camp, a four week summer program that enriches students’ reading skills and prepares them for the upcoming year. Jonathan looks towards his future and has big plans now. “My dream is to own a business like a car dealership because I like cars,” Jonathan confidently declared.

About New Horizons of SWFL 

New Horizons provides tutoring, mentoring and character 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.

If you would like to help students, like Jonathan, grow in their confidence and improve in their school work consider volunteering of your time and supporting New Horizons through a donation.

Donate Today: https://bit.ly/3Ixz6IV

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The post How Support of Dedicated Staff Helps Student Find Confidence first appeared on New Horizons of Southwest Florida.

20th Anniversary Spotlight

As New Horizons of SWFL enters into its 20th year of serving the community we will be highlighting the impact that the organization has had in the lives of the students, volunteers, donors, and staff. What started as a grassroots outreach has evolved into a thriving organization, yet the essence of the original vision remains the same.

Mary Anne Cecil, one of the earliest staff members of New Horizons of SWFL and a Super Kids Club assistant director in Bonita Springs, is our first spotlight. Mary Anne has served the students of New Horizons for 15 years. It all started when she and her husband first moved down to Southwest Florida from Ohio and a neighbor invited Mary Anne to volunteer with her. She began tutoring at New Horizons’ first site at Manna Christian, which was being led by Tom Hazell. One day over lunch at Dolly’s Produce and Eatery with Ellen Nichols, the co-founder of New Horizons, Mary Anne would accept a position that would lead her into a new career of touching lives and forging connections.

The Students We Care For

The mission of New Horizons of SWFL is to empower tomorrow’s generation today. Many of the students see Mary Anne and Tom as mentors as they navigate their academic, social, and spiritual development. “On my first day, I felt very lost and Mrs. Mary Anne helped me.” said 5th grader Maria. The passion and commitment towards each student’s success is evident through the devoted number of years Mary Anne and Tom have served.

Watching students enter the program as kindergarteners with limited to no English speaking abilities and seeing transformation into high school graduates with full ride scholarships. “Getting to share hope, encouragement, and joy with the students everyday and then seeing them in the community once they complete the program is such a joy” said Mary Anne. Over the course of the years she has been able to witness the development of the hundreds of students who have participated in the program. “I give her credit because she helped shape me to be the woman I am today,” said Alexia, who spent many years under Mary Anne’s wing and is now a Super Kids Club Director.

The Volunteers We Do Life With

Volunteers assist students with their homework and academic needs Monday through Thursday, sometimes multiple times a week and over the course of the school year, genuine connections are formed. “We have a rich history of dedicated volunteers that have journeyed with us for many, many years,” said Mary Anne. Several volunteers have been tutoring since before Mary Anne and Tom, like Elaine Hubell who has been volunteering for 16 years. “They are the rocks,” said Elaine when asked about the influence Mary Anne and Tom have had, “they know the kids so well and in turn the kids are so attentive.” There is a real sense of community at the neighborhood clubs. “Tom and I would call and sometimes have lunch with our residential volunteers. We pray for them daily and share daily life with them; praises and sorrows.” According to Mary Anne, “we have exchanged pictures of grandchildren, celebrated monumental birthdays and attended memorial services. We embrace them as part of our family. Our volunteers go above and beyond. We have had times of great sorrow bestow a family, and again, our volunteers have reached out with gifts in kind. They truly embrace and love the students and their families. Our volunteers have so much in comparison and freely give back.”

A verse that comes to Mary Anne’s mind is 2 Corinthians 9:6-8: “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” (NIV)

Reflecting upon her time with New Horizons, Mary Anne says “It has been the best job I’ve ever had.” Many students have come and gone and she and Tom have had the pleasure of seeing what a couple hours a day at New Horizons can make in their lives. Tom mentioned, “Her dedication to the kids and the Lord is incredible. She is concerned about their improvement both academically and spiritually.” The students, board and staff are grateful for the many years Mary Anne has served to support New Horizons’ mission.

About New Horizons of SWFL 

New Horizons provides tutoring, mentoring and character 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.

If you would like to help students grow in their confidence and improve in their school work consider volunteering of your time and supporting New Horizons through a donation.

Donate Today: https://bit.ly/3Ixz6IV

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