The odds of winning a scholarship were about 1 in 8 for a student in a Bachelor’s degree program according to a 2014-2015 study by The National Center for Education Statistics. The odds for the Guerrero family are 2 in 3 and soon to be 100%. 

The Dream

In 1995 eleven year old Anayeli Maqueda migrated from Mexico to the US. Her father, a laborer, aspired more for his family. Anayeli joined the workforce after completing high school. Soon after she started a family. As a single mother, Anayeli relied on her parents to help her raise her two daughters and son. “I worked a lot to be able to give them the best possible so that they could have a good path and always reminded them to study because it’s necessary to be educated so they don’t struggle the way I did,” said Anayeli. 

A family member attending the New Horizons of SWFL program encouraged Anayeli to enroll her children. At this time her oldest, Yoselin, was in sixth grade and was struggling to keep up in school. In Anayeli’s pursuit of providing her children a better path towards success, she enrolled the trio. After-school they would get homework assistance from the volunteers and staff at their local club. Additionally, they participated in the College Bound program and received personalized help applying and preparing for college and scholarships. 

The Next Generation

In 2021, Yoselin graduated high school and the New Horizons program. Upon graduation she had secured her CNA license, obtained college credit and was awarded the Take Stock in Children Scholarship. “I was so happy when I got the scholarship, it made me want to work hard and get good grades not only for that but for me and the people at New Horizons to show them that I’m doing well at school,” shared Yoselin. She recently obtained her associates degree and is a CNA at a local hospital as she works towards a degree in medicine. 

Just last month, Pablo completed high school and the New Horizons programs. Similar to his oldest sister he graduated with college credits and is also a recipient of the Take Stock in Children Scholarship. “New Horizons helped me understand the importance of funding my post-secondary education and gave me the opportunity to be tutored when I needed it the most. Volunteers and staff were a big help when I needed assistance and it was very helpful in those moments that I didn’t know what to do,” said Pablo. With the rising cost of college, those considering higher education must also evaluate the associated financial demands which can discourage first-generation students. “I knew that I was fortunate and that this opportunity would help me and my mom long term,” Pablo admitted. In the fall he will play the clarinet in the marching band of University of Central Florida as he pursues a dual major in Environmental Science and Animation. 

With three down and one more to go the stakes were high and the pressure was on for Yaresly, the youngest of the three. Since the third grade Yaresly was in gifted classes and in sixth grade she was taking classes above her grade level. During sixth grade she applied for the Take Stock in Children’s Program and was disappointed when she wasn’t accepted. Nevertheless, she continued to work hard and consistently attended New Horizons. “She would come home with A’s and so I started to tell her I wanted A+’s,” Anayeli recalls. Then in 9th grade, she had the opportunity to apply once again. “We waited nervously,” said Anayeli. In March, Yaresly was notified that she had been selected into the Take Stock in Children’s program. It is evident that Yaresly is bright and her hard work was noticed. She is already planning on taking college level classes and even plays the baritone in band, trombone in jazz band, and the euphonium in marching band. 

The Culmination

Yaresly was one of the 11 New Horizons students who after the rigorous application and interview process was selected into the Take Stock in Children-Lee County Program. Lee County Public Schools selected 49 students across the district this year. These students will receive a 4-year tuition scholarship, upon graduation, if they meet the requirements of the program.

Providing comprehensive after-school tutoring is just one of the primary focuses of New Horizons. Students get individualized support for planning for their future and access to tangible resources to help them reach their full potential.  “This family is testament of the outstanding and life-changing accomplishments that are happening at New Horizons of SWFL,” Dr. Linda M. Cunning, Executive Director of New Horizons of SWFL, said. 

“For me personally, had I had help perhaps I would’ve continued studying. There wasn’t that for me and I needed it to know that there are options.” The sacrifices of the generations prior has culminated with a family that is thriving and optimistic of the future. Anayeli shares this advice to parents “it is worth it, it can be hard and sometimes I felt like I had no strength but now I am here.”

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.

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

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Chess has found a new generation of fans. With the recent introduction of stations at Super Teens Club’s, 6-12th grade students (Super Teens) have discovered the classic board game as they explore new interests. Many had never played chess before and now they’re hooked. Keeping students immersed in education just got a new look. 

Super Teens Club is an after-school program for 6th-12th grade students that takes place on Monday through Thursday during the school year. Super Teens receive homework help, are encouraged by staff and volunteers and participate in a daily devotional. It is one of the seven programs New Horizons provides to qualifying students in Collier and Lee County. 

“On days when students are not assigned homework or complete their assignments before the devotional time begins, we wanted to create opportunities for students to develop skills that they were interested in and keep them engaged while at the Club, ” said Andrea Holley the Programs Director. Chess isn’t the only activity that was introduced. Throughout the week students rotate between arts and crafts, MasterClass computer lab, as well as strategic-thinking games.

Expert Taught Skills 

MasterClass is an immersive online experience where students take classes created by well-known instructors and includes extensive pre-recorded video content, an instructor’s guide, interactive assignments, and more. Students can research topics like business, photography, acting and leadership from among many others. “The Athlete’s Mindset” by Wayne Gretsky, “Songwriting & Producing” by Alicia Keys, “Creating Change” by Malala to name a few of the classes. Through New Horizons students are learning valuable knowledge being taught by experts that they otherwise would not have access to. 

Connection through Creativity 

“I enjoy the art station. I like art, the different activities in the art station are fun and I get to learn how to make new things,” said Jessica. Jessica is an 8th grader and has been enhancing her skills at the art station. She recently auditioned and was accepted into a competitive Arts Program for high school next year. Volunteer’s also benefit from the stations as it allows them to connect with the students beyond schoolwork. Like, volunteer and Board Member, Sandy Chisolm and Emmanuel who created an origami crane together. Stations open windows for bonding and building that mentoring relationship. 

Exploring for the Future

Programs are structured around students receiving homework help from volunteer tutors and mentors. The day ends with a devotion style lesson that encourages character and faith building themes. Overall, the goal is for students to graduate with a plan for their future. “With stations our thought is that when students gain a better understanding of themselves, their talents, and their interests, it is a good solid beginning to planning for their future” said Andrea. Many of the students come from homes where English is not the first language and in many cases will be the first to attend post-secondary school.  In between homework and devotion time students are able to explore and grow in skills that can lead them to a career path, simultaneously immersed in education in a safe-environment. 

Community Effort

Funding for the stations was provided by Bonita-Estero Elks Lodge #2753 and supporters of New Horizons. Judith MacGregor, Grants Coordinator for the Bonita Estero Elks Lodge,  said “the Elks are thrilled to be a part of sponsoring this program which is an investment in the future.” The dedicated area of stations also allows us to bring in partners, such as Youth4Orphans, who are doing a weekly financial literacy station with our students at our Bonita Springs club.  Volunteers who have an educational or creative skillset are encouraged to get involved. The introduction of stations has increased students’ motivation to complete their homework as they are eager to start up a chess match, learn about “Documentary Filmmaking” from Ken Burns, or create an art piece that perhaps one day will be framed at a museum.

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.

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

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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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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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The post Parents Once Frustrated, Now Beaming with Pride first appeared on New Horizons of Southwest Florida.

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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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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