New Horizons of Southwest Florida https://newhorizonsofswfl.org Empowering Tomorrow's Generation Today Tue, 03 Nov 2026 15:20:52 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.4 https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/admin-ajax-150x150.png New Horizons of Southwest Florida https://newhorizonsofswfl.org 32 32 One Family. Three Journeys. A Legacy of Hope.​ https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/2026/10/30/one-family-three-journeys-a-legacy-of-hope/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=one-family-three-journeys-a-legacy-of-hope Fri, 30 Oct 2026 18:49:52 +0000 https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/?p=11544 One Family. Three Journeys. A Legacy of Hope. For Bryan and his siblings, New Horizons of Southwest Florida has been part of their story for years, providing encouragement, support, and opportunities to grow. For Bryan, New Horizons of Southwest Florida has been part of his life since kindergarten. He followed in the footsteps of his […]

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One Family. Three Journeys. A Legacy of Hope.

For Bryan and his siblings, New Horizons of Southwest Florida has been part of their story for years, providing encouragement, support, and opportunities to grow.

For Bryan, New Horizons of Southwest Florida has been part of his life since kindergarten. He followed in the footsteps of his older siblings, Nancy and Edgar, who also grew up in the program. Over the years, all three found more than a place to learn. They found encouragement, friendships, faith, and people who cared about their future.

More Than Academic Support

When Bryan looks back on his years at New Horizons, he remembers the ways the organization supported his family beyond the classroom. During challenging seasons, staff members offered encouragement and practical help, reminding his family that they were not alone. One especially meaningful memory was being selected for Best Christmas Ever in 2024, an experience that brought joy to his family during a difficult time.

New Horizons also played a meaningful role in Bryan’s faith journey. He remembers first learning about Jesus in kindergarten through the program. As he grew older, mentors continued to encourage him, teaching lessons that stayed with him long after the activities ended.

One summer camp memory stands out. A mentor encouraged Bryan and his teammates to keep going through challenges and never give up on their goals. Bryan still remembers that message today.

 

Bryan at Estero Super Kids Club in 2021.

Dreams for the Future​

Today, each sibling is building a path of their own. Nancy is working while completing her studies, and Edgar is studying mechanics at Fort Myers Technical College.

Bryan has big plans for his future. He hopes to earn scholarships and attend Florida Gulf Coast University to study theater. His dream is to become an actor.

“My dream career is to become an actor” Bryan shared.

But his ambitions go beyond his own success. Bryan hopes to use his future career to help his family and others in need. He also wants to give back to the people and organizations that have supported him, including New Horizons.

When reflecting on the choices that will shape his future, Bryan shared an important lesson he has learned: doing the right thing can help lead you toward where you want to be in life.

Bryan with Estero Super Teens Club Director Andrea.

A Legacy That Continues

The story of Bryan, Nancy, and Edgar reflects the lasting impact of investing in young people. For this family, that investment has meant opportunities to learn, grow in faith, navigate challenges, and imagine new possibilities.

As Bryan looks ahead, he carries with him the encouragement and lessons he has received along the way. And with a desire to give back, he hopes to one day make a difference in the lives of others, just as others have made a difference in his.

 

Bryan with his older siblings, Nancy and Edgar.

At New Horizons, that is what it means to walk alongside students and their families: helping build a foundation today for the possibilities of tomorrow.

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]]> Faces of New Horizons: Yessica’s Story​ https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/2026/10/30/faces-of-new-horizons-yessicas-story/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=faces-of-new-horizons-yessicas-story Fri, 30 Oct 2026 16:51:51 +0000 https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/?p=11524 Meet Yessica New Horizons Alumna | Class of 2021 Yessica celebrating her graduation in 2021. When Yessica first walked through the doors of Super Kids Club, she couldn’t have imagined how deeply the experience would shape her life. She still remembers telling Mr. Louis that she wasn’t coming back. His response? A smile and a […]

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Meet Yessica

New Horizons Alumna | Class of 2021

Yessica celebrating her graduation in 2021.

When Yessica first walked through the doors of Super Kids Club, she couldn’t have imagined how deeply the experience would shape her life.

She still remembers telling Mr. Louis that she wasn’t coming back. His response? A smile and a simple, “Yes, you will.” And he was right.

For Yessica, New Horizons became much more than a place to receive homework help. It became a family. During one of the most difficult seasons of her life, following the passing of her father, Mr. Louis showed kindness and support not only to her but to her entire family. That compassion left an impression she has never forgotten.

Yessica with Esther, her former New Horizons club director, and friends.

As she continued through middle and high school, Esther, who later became director of the teen club, became an important part of her journey. Through encouragement, guidance, and faith, Esther helped Yessica grow in confidence and deepen her relationship with God. Their connection continued long after Yessica left the program, growing into a lasting sisterhood.

Today, Yessica is a medical assistant and martial artist. She carries with her the lessons of perseverance, discipline, faith, and the importance of caring for others.

Looking back, she knows the greatest impact of New Horizons wasn’t simply what she learned, but the people who believed in her and the relationships that continue to shape her life.

“If I could go back to New Horizons and do it all over again, I would walk through those doors with a grateful heart, knowing that God had something special waiting for me.“

Yessica’s story is a reminder that the impact of New Horizons doesn’t end when a student walks out the doors. It lives on through the relationships built, the faith nurtured, and the lives shaped along the way.

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]]> Faces of New Horizons: Manuel’s Story​ https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/2026/10/30/faces-of-new-horizons-manuels-story/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=faces-of-new-horizons-manuels-story Fri, 30 Oct 2026 14:41:22 +0000 https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/?p=11509 A Story That Began at New Horizons From Super Kid to Army Officer: Manuel’s Story Manuel’s journey with New Horizons began as a young boy at the Super Kids Club at Manna Christian RV Park. The encouragement, care, and support he received helped him recognize his potential and believe in what was possible for his […]

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A Story That Began at New Horizons

From Super Kid to Army Officer: Manuel's Story

Manuel’s journey with New Horizons began as a young boy at the Super Kids Club at Manna Christian RV Park. The encouragement, care, and support he received helped him recognize his potential and believe in what was possible for his future.

Years later, after serving in the U.S. Army, earning his master’s degree, and becoming a leader and mentor, Manuel reflects on the lasting impact of those early experiences.

Today, as a father and mentor, he hopes to pass along the same encouragement and belief that others once gave him.

Watch Manuel’s Story

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]]> Behind the Clubs https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/2026/07/31/behind-the-clubs/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=behind-the-clubs Fri, 31 Jul 2026 14:26:55 +0000 https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/?p=11350 Behind the Clubs Meet Some of the Faces Behind the Mission As another club year begins, we’re introducing you to three dedicated staff members who help make New Horizons clubs a place where Super Students can learn, grow, and thrive. Every day, they build meaningful relationships, encourage our Super Students, and create opportunities for success. […]

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Behind the Clubs

Meet Some of the Faces Behind the Mission

As another club year begins, we’re introducing you to three dedicated staff members who help make New Horizons clubs a place where Super Students can learn, grow, and thrive. Every day, they build meaningful relationships, encourage our Super Students, and create opportunities for success. Here’s what inspires them as they prepare to welcome students back.

Jaci Smith

Area Coordinator, Collier County and Bonita Springs

Jaci is excited to welcome students back and hear about their summer adventures. One of her favorite parts of working at New Horizons is watching students grow throughout the school year, not only academically, but also through the friendships they build and the confidence they gain.

As the new club year begins, her hope is that every student experiences a positive, fun, and educational environment where they feel encouraged to learn and grow.

Bryce Schyck

Area Coordinator, North Lee County

Bryce is excited to welcome returning Super Students and meet new students joining New Horizons for the first time. She is also looking forward to working alongside a team of leaders and mentors who are passionate about encouraging students and families.

For Bryce, one of the greatest rewards is witnessing students discover their potential. She especially values seeing their faith grow and watching them become the person God created them to be.

Samantha Anderson

Director, Rosemary Super Kids Club

As Samantha approaches her first anniversary with New Horizons, she reflects on a year filled with growth, meaningful relationships, and purpose. Serving students and their families has allowed her to combine her passion for helping others with work that inspires her every day.

She cherishes celebrating students’ successes, encouraging them through challenges, and watching them grow in faith, confidence, and education. For Samantha, being part of New Horizons is an opportunity to invest in the next generation and make a lasting difference.

Together, We Make an Impact

Behind every club is a team of caring professionals who are committed to helping students succeed in school and life. Thank you to our donors, volunteers, and community partners for making this work possible. Your support empowers our staff to continue creating a safe, encouraging environment where students can thrive.

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]]> Graduation Ceremony: Celebrating the Class of 2026 https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/2026/05/13/graduation-ceremony-celebrating-the-class-of-2026/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=graduation-ceremony-celebrating-the-class-of-2026 Wed, 13 May 2026 16:37:15 +0000 https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/?p=11229 We are proud to celebrate the hard work and dedication of the six outstanding graduates of the Class of 2026. Families, mentors, staff and supporters gathered to recognize the graduates’ growth and bright futures during a special ceremony at Estero Church. Class of 2026 For some students, this milestone marks a journey with New Horizons […]

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We are proud to celebrate the hard work and dedication of the six outstanding graduates of the Class of 2026. Families, mentors, staff and supporters gathered to recognize the graduates’ growth and bright futures during a special ceremony at Estero Church.

Class of 2026

For some students, this milestone marks a journey with New Horizons that began in elementary school. For others, joining New Horizons in middle or high school provided the support and encouragement they needed to thrive during some of the most significant years of their lives.

Our keynote speaker, Luca Cartagena, encouraged graduates to embrace challenges and believe in their ability to succeed. He also spoke about the importance of telling positive stories about yourself and your future.

A highlight of the ceremony was hearing from graduating senior and New Horizons staff member River, who shared a heartfelt speech about how the program helped shape his future. River also received the Bob and Ellen Nichols Scholarship.

Through the Super Teens Club, River connected with professionals who inspired his dream of becoming an animator. “New Horizons allowed me to grow the way I have, and to express myself in ways I never thought possible,” he shared.

River Earned the 2026 Bob & Ellen Nichols Scholarship

After the ceremony, families celebrated together with cake, photos, and a luncheon. It was a joyful afternoon honoring the accomplishments of six amazing students and the exciting futures ahead of them.

Congratulations, Class of 2026!

📸 Relive the celebration by viewing our photo gallery:

Photo Gallery

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]]> 💛 Celebrating More of Our Incredible Volunteers https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/2026/04/02/%f0%9f%92%9b-celebrating-more-of-our-incredible-volunteers/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=%25f0%259f%2592%259b-celebrating-more-of-our-incredible-volunteers Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:59:29 +0000 https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/?p=11067 💛 Celebrating More of Our Incredible Volunteers April is National Volunteer Month, and we continue celebrating the incredible volunteers who make a difference in the lives of our super students. Their dedication, time, and heart create lasting impact—helping students grow in confidence, character, and curiosity every day. Debbie is a pillar of kindness at Cypress […]

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💛 Celebrating More of Our Incredible Volunteers

April is National Volunteer Month, and we continue celebrating the incredible volunteers who make a difference in the lives of our super students. Their dedication, time, and heart create lasting impact—helping students grow in confidence, character, and curiosity every day.

Debbie is a pillar of kindness at Cypress SKC. She shows up twice a week with a smile, a plan, and a heart ready to serve—whether that means tutoring, encouraging families, or stepping in wherever she’s needed. Her leadership in organizing a food drive through her church made a meaningful difference for our families, reflecting her deep commitment to community care. Debbie embodies what it means to serve with love, and we are so grateful for her.

Joe brings a calm, patient spirit that helps students feel safe to learn at their own pace. His love for the kids is evident in every interaction—from the way he listens to their stories to the way he celebrates their progress. Joe’s steady encouragement makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our Covenant SKC students..

Andrew shows up with purpose to our Rosemary SKC—determined to help students succeed not only academically, but personally. His passion for mentoring shines through in the way he encourages effort, celebrates progress, and challenges students to believe in their potential. Andrew is the kind of role model who helps shape confidence and character, and our kids are better because of him.

Sherry is a joyful, grounding presence in our Friday clubs. She connects with students in a way that makes them feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. Whether she’s leading a discussion, participating in an activity, or offering a listening ear, Sherry brings genuine care and a deep commitment to helping students grow in character and confidence. Her faith-filled encouragement helps our young girls and boys build resilience, self-worth, and strong interpersonal skills. We are grateful for the heart she pours into every Friday afternoon.

Elaine brings a calm, steady warmth to Oak River Super Kids Club. Her patience creates a safe space for students to try, learn, and try again—and her kindness makes them feel seen and valued. Elaine is the volunteer who notices the quiet victories, celebrates the small steps, and supports each child with genuine care. Her commitment to our students shines in every interaction, and we are so thankful for the love she pours into our program.

Andre sets the tone for the week with heartfelt devotionals that help students grow in faith, character, and confidence. She pairs that spiritual support with hands-on academic guidance, helping students with reading, math, and homework through patience and encouragement. Andre’s presence is a blessing to Covenant Super Kids Club, and we are grateful for the steady love she pours into our students.

💛 Want to Make a Difference?

Our volunteers are the heart of New Horizons, and you can join them! Whether you have a few hours a week, a special skill, or simply a willingness to encourage our students, there’s a place for you to make an impact.

Become a Volunteer Today →

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]]> 💛 Volunteer Appreciation Month: More Stories from New Horizons https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/2026/04/02/%f0%9f%92%9b-volunteer-appreciation-month-more-stories-from-new-horizons/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=%25f0%259f%2592%259b-volunteer-appreciation-month-more-stories-from-new-horizons Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:34:07 +0000 https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/?p=11061 💛 Volunteer Appreciation Month: More Stories from New Horizons April is National Volunteer Month, and we’re excited to share more stories of the incredible volunteers who make a difference in the lives of our super students. Their time, dedication, and heart inspire confidence, curiosity, and growth every day. Randy brings an incredible spark to the […]

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💛 Volunteer Appreciation Month: More Stories from New Horizons

April is National Volunteer Month, and we’re excited to share more stories of the incredible volunteers who make a difference in the lives of our super students. Their time, dedication, and heart inspire confidence, curiosity, and growth every day.

Randy brings an incredible spark to the Estero Super Teens Club—the kind of passion that inspires students to believe in themselves and push a little further every day. His generosity shows up not only in the time he gives, but in the way he listens, encourages, and celebrates each teen’s growth. Randy’s presence has become a steady source of motivation for our students, and we are grateful for the heart he brings to the club.

David is the kind of mentor every child deserves: patient, encouraging, and deeply invested in helping students grow. Whether he’s guiding a tough homework assignment or simply listening to a student share about their day, David shows up with compassion and generosity. His heart for our kids is unmistakable, and his presence brings comfort and confidence to Oak River Super Kids Club. We’re honored to celebrate David and the countless ways he lifts up our students.

Our Super Kids Club in Estero thrives thanks to dedicated volunteers like Mr. Russ. Each week, he shows up with a smile—and snacks the kids eagerly anticipate. Beyond tutoring and mentoring, Mr. Russ brings genuine care to every interaction. He engages fully in our faith-based activities, joining students in prayer and encouraging their growth in both academics and character. His steady presence makes a lasting impact, and we’re grateful for the joy and support he brings to our students.

Elizabeth brings positivity that lifts students up and helps them see what they’re capable of. Her caring approach creates an environment where kids feel encouraged to try, learn, and keep going—even when the work is tough. She celebrates every milestone and reminds students that their achievements matter. We’re thankful for the optimism and heart she brings to Rosemary SKC.

💛 Want to Make a Difference?

Our volunteers are the heart of New Horizons, and you can join them! Whether you have a few hours a week, a special skill, or simply a willingness to encourage our students, there’s a place for you to make an impact.

Become a Volunteer Today →

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]]> 💛 Volunteer Appreciation Month: Celebrating the Heart of New Horizons​ https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/2026/04/02/%f0%9f%92%9b-volunteer-appreciation-month-celebrating-the-heart-of-new-horizons/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=%25f0%259f%2592%259b-volunteer-appreciation-month-celebrating-the-heart-of-new-horizons Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:02:08 +0000 https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/?p=11056 💛 Volunteer Appreciation Month: Celebrating the Heart of New Horizons April is National Volunteer Month, and we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on some of the amazing individuals who make our programs possible. Our volunteers bring time, energy, and heart to our super students every day—and their impact is felt in every tutoring session, activity, […]

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💛 Volunteer Appreciation Month: Celebrating the Heart of New Horizons

April is National Volunteer Month, and we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on some of the amazing individuals who make our programs possible. Our volunteers bring time, energy, and heart to our super students every day—and their impact is felt in every tutoring session, activity, and smile.

Mary has been a joyful force to our programs. At Oak River SKC, Mary brings her signature enthusiasm to every tutoring session. Students light up when she walks into the room—they know she’ll cheer them on, challenge them, and celebrate every win, big or small. Mary has a gift for turning learning into something fun and meaningful, and her steady dedication has shaped countless young readers and thinkers. We are so grateful for the heart she pours into our super students.

Tina brings joy to Estero SKC in the most thoughtful ways—including her wonderful puzzle donations that have become a student favorite. After finishing their schoolwork, our super students gather around the puzzle table, working together, laughing, and building confidence piece by piece. Tina’s generosity has created a fun, collaborative space that students look forward to every day. Her kindness reminds our kids that they are supported by a community that believes in them.

Gale brings creativity and curiosity to every session at Cypress SKC. Twice a week, she arrives with hands-on activities that spark imagination, deepen understanding, and make learning feel like an adventure. Her thoughtful approach helps students connect new ideas to real-world experiences, and her gentle encouragement builds confidence along the way. Gale’s dedication enriches our programs in beautiful ways.

Eliza has a gift for making every child feel seen and valued at Rosemary SKC. Her gentle, caring presence creates a safe and welcoming space where students can learn, share, and grow. Whether she’s helping with homework or offering a kind word, Eliza brings warmth that brightens the entire room. We are grateful for the compassion she pours into our Rosemary students.

💛 Want to Make a Difference?

Our volunteers are the heart of New Horizons, and we’d love for you to join us! Whether you have a few hours a week or a special skill to share, there’s a place for you to make an impact.

Become a Volunteer Today →

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]]> Ribbon Cutting Celebrates New Bus at Cypress SKC https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/2026/01/29/ribbon-cutting-celebrates-new-bus-at-cypress-skc/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=ribbon-cutting-celebrates-new-bus-at-cypress-skc Thu, 29 Jan 2026 17:05:09 +0000 https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/?p=10734 Ribbon Cutting Celebrates New Bus at Cypress Super Kids Club Volunteers, staff, and super students gather at Cypress Super Kids Club We recently celebrated an exciting milestone for New Horizons of SWFL with a ribbon cutting event at our Cypress Super Kids Club, marking the arrival of a new bus made possible by the generosity […]

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Ribbon Cutting Celebrates New Bus at Cypress Super Kids Club

Volunteers, staff, and super students gather at Cypress Super Kids Club

We recently celebrated an exciting milestone for New Horizons of SWFL with a ribbon cutting event at our Cypress Super Kids Club, marking the arrival of a new bus made possible by the generosity of supporters at our January 2025 Gala, Sail to Success.

Staff and volunteers dance and celebrate as super students arrive at Cypress Super Kids Club, welcoming them with joy.

This new bus has been serving students across the Fort Myers and Estero area since the summer, ensuring Super Kids and Super Teens have safe, reliable transportation from school to our clubs each afternoon. Transportation is a critical part of our mission, and this addition strengthens our ability to deliver consistent, high-quality programming to the students and families we serve.

The celebration brought together volunteers, board members, staff, donors, and our super students. Guests gathered as they waited for the students to arrive from school aboard the new bus. As it pulled up, music filled the air and cheers, smiles, and dancing welcomed the students, setting the tone for a joyful and meaningful afternoon.

Once the students gathered at the club, Dr. Linda Cunning, CEO of New Horizons of SWFL, introduced Jim Jost, Chairman of the Board of Directors, who shared remarks highlighting the importance of transportation to the organization’s work.

“Thank you to all of our supporters,” Jost said. “Buses are integral to our success. We pick students up after school and bring them safely to our clubs. We cannot deliver the quality programs we’re known for without the fleet we have. Maintaining and updating that fleet is essential, and it’s only possible because of the continued support of our donors.”

Following the remarks, the ribbon was officially cut, marking the start of this new chapter. The celebration continued as everyone shared cake, conversation, and time together with the Super Kids, an opportunity to connect, reflect, and celebrate what’s possible through community support.

Jim Jost officially cuts the ribbon at the Cypress Super Kids Club to celebrate the new bus.

This ribbon cutting was more than a ceremonial moment; it was a powerful reminder of how generosity turns into tangible impact. Because of the donors who supported Sail to Success, students in the Fort Myers area now have dependable transportation and continued access to the care, consistency, and encouragement offered through New Horizons of SWFL.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who made this moment possible and who continues to invest in the future of our super students.

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Liam, our dedicated bus driver, proudly poses next to the new bus
Super Kids celebrate inside the new bus

A video capturing the joy, ribbon cutting, and community celebration at Cypress Super Kids Club.

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]]> A Best Christmas Ever, Right at Home​ https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/2026/01/07/a-best-christmas-ever-right-at-home/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=a-best-christmas-ever-right-at-home Wed, 07 Jan 2026 17:04:18 +0000 https://newhorizonsofswfl.org/?p=10700 A Best Christmas Ever, Right at Home This past December, one of our New Horizons families was selected to receive a Best Christmas Ever, and the celebration brought joy and hope right into their home. Through Best Christmas Ever, families are nominated by local organizations and selected to receive a meaningful, in-home Christmas experience. This […]

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A Best Christmas Ever, Right at Home

This past December, one of our New Horizons families was selected to receive a Best Christmas Ever, and the celebration brought joy and hope right into their home.

Through Best Christmas Ever, families are nominated by local organizations and selected to receive a meaningful, in-home Christmas experience. This year, Edwin’s family was chosen in recognition of their resilience and perseverance.

Edwin’s family is surrounded by the Best Christmas Ever team and New Horizons staff

Eleven-year-old Edwin has been part of New Horizons since first grade. When he first joined our program, he spoke very little and struggled academically, especially in third grade. With consistency and support, Edwin has grown in confidence. Today, he is engaged, friendly, and eager to connect with others. His progress academically, socially, and emotionally reflects both his perseverance and the impact of steady encouragement.

Edwin lives under the care of his grandparents, who have stepped in to provide the stability he needs. They are deeply committed to raising him with intention and consistency, making sacrifices to ensure he has a supportive home environment. Edwin also receives weekly in-home therapy to support his growth, and his grandparents remain closely involved every step of the way.

This past year included challenging moments for the family, which required them to lean on one another even more. Reuniting as a household later in the year was a meaningful moment that reinforced the importance of their shared support and connection.

The Best Christmas Ever celebration brought a special moment of encouragement into their home. It was a reminder that the family is seen and supported by a wider community.

We are grateful to Best Christmas Ever, a faith-based nonprofit that partners with local leaders to bless families facing difficult circumstances. Their mission closely aligns with New Horizons’ commitment to serving families with care and respect.

A special thank you to Gene Bradley, his family, and their team for selecting Edwin’s family and creating a Christmas they will remember.

A meaningful moment as Edwin’s family receives their Best Christmas Ever celebration
Gene Bradley and his team share words of encouragement and hope with Edwin’s family during their Best Christmas Ever experience.

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