November 6, 2024

New Horizons of SWFL is excited to share that we recently participated in the Buoys and Bait Fishing Tournament, a fantastic initiative organized by the Freedom Waters Foundation. This incredible organization is dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals facing challenges by providing unique fishing opportunities that build life skills and foster connections with caring volunteers.

In preparation for the tournament, our dedicated staff arranged transportation and provided chaperones for the journey, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for our Super Teens. On the day of the event, they were transported to a beautiful marina in Naples, where they were warmly welcomed by volunteer captains and representatives from Freedom Waters.

The excitement was palpable as the boys were grouped with their mentors, ready for a day filled with adventure on the water.

During the three hours spent fishing, our Super Teens experienced the thrill of catching fish, all of which were safely released back into the water. This practice not only promotes conservation but also teaches participants about the importance of respecting nature. As they fished, the boys shared stories, laughter, and camaraderie, strengthening their bonds with each other and their mentors.

At the end of the tournament, participants gathered for an awards ceremony that celebrated their achievements. Categories included “Biggest Fish,” “Most Unusual Fish,” “Smallest Fish,” and “Most Fish,” allowing everyone to feel recognized and appreciated. Each boy enjoyed a delicious lunch, followed by the exciting moment of receiving their own fishing pole and tackle kit to take home. This thoughtful gesture ensures that the experience doesn’t end with the tournament, but rather continues as they engage with fishing in their own time.

Participating in this event not only provided valuable fishing skills but also fostered connections and built confidence in our Super Teens. These outings serve as a reminder of the importance of community, support, and the simple joy of spending time outdoors.

The Freedom Waters Foundation offers fishing experiences for children and adults with life-threatening illnesses or disabilities, as well as veterans. Through these outings, participants not only enjoy the therapeutic benefits of being on the water but also gain valuable life skills, such as patience, teamwork, and resilience. Each fishing trip is a chance to escape daily struggles, create joyful memories, and build relationships with mentors who are passionate about making a difference.

We are immensely grateful to the Freedom Waters Foundation for making this memorable experience possible and for their ongoing commitment to enhancing lives through fishing.

 

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About New Horizons of SWFL 

New Horizons provides tutoring, mentoring and faith-building programs for more than 500 students annually in Southwest Florida. If you are interested in enrolling your child into one of our 10 trusted neighborhood clubs, call us at 239-948-4146.

Help students get the tools they need to succeed by volunteering or donating.

Give a Donation: https://bit.ly/3Ixz6IV

 

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After retiring and relocating to Southwest Florida, Terri Pilla embarked on a civic engagement journey that sparked personal growth and a commitment to community service.  “It is wonderful for the soul to help other people,” shared Pilla. Her change from a leisure lifestyle to one focused on giving back showcases her values that are aligned at New Horizons of SWFL. Pilla emphasizes that “children are my passion”, showing her genuine desire to give back to the community and the little ones.

“It’s wonderful for the soul to help other people” 

Terri Pilla, New Horizons Volunteer

Terri Pilla has been an integral part of New Horizons for the past nine years, and is currently serving as the head of development on the Board of Directors. Pilla said there is more to life than pickleball, golf, and playing cards, she devotes her free time to volunteering. Although her role in seeking funding opportunities is challenging, her passion towards the education of youth and children “gives me the strength to do the hard part of the job which is asking for money,” said Pilla. 

In addition to her role as a board member, Pilla’s hands-on volunteering sets her apart and demonstrates her sincere commitment to the students. Her saying “give, but you receive more” reflects her belief that the joy and fulfillment gained far surpass what one may give. This motto isn’t merely a collection of words for Pilla; it serves as a guiding principle that underscores her dedication to fostering reciprocal relationships through volunteering at New Horizons.

About New Horizons of SWFL 

New Horizons provides tutoring, mentoring and faith-building programs for more than 500 students annually in Southwest Florida. If you are interested in enrolling your child into one of our 10 trusted neighborhood clubs, call us at 239-948-4146.

Help students get the tools they need to succeed by volunteering or donating.

Give a Donation: https://bit.ly/3Ixz6IV

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The post Volunteer Spotlight: Terri Pilla first appeared on New Horizons of Southwest Florida.

Jim Yost had been involved in the education system for several years when he was approached by friends who volunteered at New Horizons of SWFL asking if he wanted to volunteer there and he decided to check it out with his wife. After coming to the afternoon tutoring sessions a couple of times, they concluded that it would be a great opportunity for them to give back their time and talents to the children and youth of Southwest Florida.

According to Yost, the volunteering experience at New Horizons is outstanding and his colleagues can testify to it. He finds his role in helping children and youth learn and succeed is profoundly enjoyable. What truly brings him joy and fulfillment is the opportunity to accompany students throughout their entire educational journey, witnessing their growth and progress firsthand.

Over the course of several years, Yost has been an integral part of the New Horizons team. His journey began as a dedicated mentor to students, later extending to active involvement in various committees. Yost’s unwavering passion for education and the well-being of our youth has left a lasting impact on our organization’s efforts. Today, he holds the esteemed position of treasurer on the Board of Directors, exemplifying his commitment to our mission. Yost’s experience with New Horizons, whether as a volunteer or board member, has been consistently positive, reflecting his deep dedication and invaluable contributions to our cause.

When asked about how he would convince someone that New Horizons is the right choice for them if they were looking to volunteer, his response was: “I think I would do two things. I would give them the business case for our mission, show them what we do, why we do it, and the success that we have, and say you can be part of that. And then two, I would take them to one of our tutoring sessions, show them how it works, see how they can fit in,” and “hopefully both of those would hook them on to being new volunteers,” added Yost.

About New Horizons of SWFL 

New Horizons provides tutoring, mentoring and faith-building programs for more than 500 students annually in Southwest Florida. If you are interested in enrolling your child into one of our 10 trusted neighborhood clubs, call us at 239-948-4146.

Help students get the tools they need to succeed by volunteering or donating.

Give a Donation: https://bit.ly/3Ixz6IV

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The post Volunteer Spotlight: Jim Yost first appeared on New Horizons of Southwest Florida.

Sheila has been a teacher her whole life and she loves it. She taught for nearly 30 years to children of all ages. Once it was time to retire, Sheila didn’t know where to go next. “I prayed to God, you know I love teaching, what else can I do? New Horizons was a real fit” she shared. 

New Horizons of SWFL’s mission is to empower under-resourced youth to reach their full potential through tutoring, mentoring, and faith-building. Not only does New Horizons assist with academic goals but also character and faith development. 98% of parents stated their child’s desire to be successful in school and get better grades has improved since attending New Horizons. 

Wade’s experience with children has been outstanding. She has been a dedicated volunteer with New Horizons for over 12 years. Volunteering her time at the First United Methodist Church of Bonita Springs Super Kids Club. There she assists students who need help with their homework and sometimes even shares the daily devotional at the end of the day. Wade enjoys most getting to educate the children on the Christian Bible stories.

When asked if there was an occupation she would rather do she truly couldn’t find a better fit. “It gives me sunshine and an outlook on life. I’m very happy to go and help contribute to other children’s success, my goal is to help them,” said Wade. 

About New Horizons of SWFL 

New Horizons provides tutoring, mentoring and faith-building programs for more than 500 students annually in Southwest Florida. If you are interested in enrolling your child into one of our 10 trusted neighborhood clubs, call us at 239-948-4146.

Help students get the tools they need to succeed by volunteering or donating.

Give a Donation: https://bit.ly/3Ixz6IV

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The post Volunteer Spotlight: Sheila Wade first appeared on New Horizons of Southwest Florida.

New Horizons of Southwest Florida is proud to announce that 12 of our dedicated volunteers have been honored with the prestigious President’s Volunteer Service Award, bestowed by the President of the United States. This national honor recognizes the exceptional commitment, time, and effort these individuals have selflessly dedicated through volunteer service and civic participation.

Each of these exceptional volunteers embodies the spirit of community service, and their unwavering dedication has been instrumental in the success of our organization’s mission. Including two of our own teen students who volunteer in our programs for younger students (*). We would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and commend the following outstanding volunteers:

Judith MacGregor – Gold

*Michella Martinez Jose – Silver

Noreen Thomas – Silver

Andre Self – Bronze

Andrew Sullivan – Bronze

Elizabeth Schwesinger- Bronze

Hellena LaRosa – Bronze

Joseph Beary – Bronze

Laura Jensen – Bronze

Pat Phillips – Bronze

Phyllis Col – Bronze

*Rolando Escandon Jr. – Bronze

These 12 individuals have collectively contributed thousands of hours to support our initiatives of providing tutoring, mentoring, and character building experiences. Their hard work, dedication, and passion for creating positive change in our community have not gone unnoticed.

New Horizons of Southwest Florida is deeply grateful for their efforts and commitment to making our region a better place for all. We recognize that their service is a shining example of the power of volunteerism and community engagement, and we are immensely proud of their accomplishments.

On October 17th, volunteers were presented with The President’s Volunteer Service Award by Dr. Linda Cunning, CEO of New Horizons of SWFL, in a heartfelt and inspiring ceremony hosted at Northern Trust in Bonita Springs that recognized their exceptional contributions to our community.

About New Horizons of SWFL 

New Horizons effectively changes the lives of under-resourced students by providing tutoring, mentoring and character-building experiences at its neighborhood clubs.

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.

Help students reach their full potential by becoming a volunteer or to support our programs click here.

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

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The post 12 Volunteers Recognized with President’s Volunteer Service Award first appeared on New Horizons of Southwest Florida.

“Empowering tomorrow’s generation today,” is not only the slogan for New Horizons of SWFL, but the motivation behind the Point of Light Presidential Service Award nominee Dr. Judith MacGregor’s purpose, “I know what they need, which is a little encouragement.”   

New Horizons of SWFL’s mission is to empower under-resourced youth to reach their full potential through tutoring, mentoring and faith-building. 

“Seeing a woman scientist like myself, who looks like an average person,” stated Dr. MacGregor in an effort to show the students a higher education is possible. Dr. MacGregor has conducted a variety of projects including discussing the value of education, life choices, and creating opportunities in science for students. She has also administered science experiments, but she truly enjoys crafting projects with her students in diverse age groups. 

Dr. MacGregor is involved in 5 active organizations in the SWFL area, including, being a member Bonita-Estero Elks Lodge #2753, a member of American Association of University Women (AAUW). She also serves as a Director of the Greater Naples AAUW Charitable Foundation and mentors’ youth on the value of STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) education while facilitating workshops to close the gender wage gap. She is passionate about equality and empowerment for all, but most importantly allowing women to understand their value, “girls can do anything.”  

Dr. MacGregor has been extremely valuable to New Horizons for the past 8 years. “Judith has been a long-time major supporter and volunteer of New Horizons,” stated Dr. Linda M. Cunning, Executive Director of New Horizons of SWFL. “[She has] provided auction items for our events over the years, she single-handedly wrote for us, and we have received both the local and National Elks Foundation Grants for a number of years (over $35k in grants).”   

These grants help provide food, snacks, computers and other resources needed to help these young people succeed. “Judith doesn’t know the plethora of things that she has done and the lives she’s touched,” stated Charlotte Nal, MNM, Director of Volunteerism. Most volunteers do not understand their impact, no matter how little it may seem to the person volunteering, it means everything to these kids, “You can see how you can lift them… then a light bulb goes on in them and that’s what I’m looking for,” stated Dr. MacGregor. This is the goal of New Horizons, to empower. The book of John says “let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth (1 John 3:18). This is exactly what Dr. MacGregor does. Act!  

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 post Volunteer Spotlight: Dr. Judith MacGregor first appeared on New Horizons of Southwest Florida.

New Horizons of SWFL takes pride in its volunteer network of inspiring role models and mentors who work tirelessly to assure that under-resourced students in Southwest Florida walk down the right path. Around four years ago, Pastor Chris Muller of Legacy Life Church joined the family and he is here to stay. 

“There is no job too big, no job too small,” this is what Pastor Chris had to say when asked about his service at New Horizons. His love for education was sown in his heart at a very young age, and it blossomed when he became the father of four incredible kids. As his children grew up, he either led or helped organize every school and extracurricular activity they were involved in. His passion for teaching flourished as he gained experience in the field and had the chance to work with many school ministries both domestically and abroad. 

Pastor Chris partnered with New Horizons in an effort to create a safe environment for children to learn and socialize at his church. During the after-school program, he volunteers as a mentor and counselor for middle and high school students. Coaching and managing the chess team is one of his favorite things to do. He is not afraid to take on a challenge and enjoys working closely with students who need extra support. 

Pastor Chris has been helping Romanian education initiatives for years, in addition to his indispensable position as a committed New Horizons volunteer and Lead Pastor. He visits Romania two or three times a year to supervise projects and interact with pupils. When asked about some of the biggest obstacles he has faced throughout his career, Mr. Muller revealed that it is quite challenging to share one’s knowledge with people from a different culture, especially during a time when it feels like older people are no longer relevant to new generations. “That is why we need more organizations like New Horizons,” stated Pastor Chris. 

Pastor Chris finds immense importance in planning for the future. At New Horizons, students have the opportunity to make a plan for their future and are equipped with the tools they need to succeed. Pastor Chris encourages students to start thinking about their future as soon as possible. Living in the now is crucial, but we must never lose sight of the fact that every choice we make today will have an impact on our life tomorrow. New Horizons mission is to empower the youth through tutoring, mentoring and faith-building, and Pastor Chris brings all three to the table. 

About New Horizons of SWFL 

New Horizons provides tutoring, mentoring and faith-building programs for more than 500 students annually in Southwest Florida. If you are interested in enrolling your child into one of our 10 trusted neighborhood clubs, call us at 239-948-4146.

Help students 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 post Volunteer Spotlight: Pastor Chris Muller first appeared on New Horizons of Southwest Florida.

“I have always felt that education is the key for students and families to get good jobs and to be successful.” These words not only reflect the educational mindset of Alison Corner but also the mission of New Horizons of SWFL. 

New Horizons is a local nonprofit that aims to empower under-resourced youth to achieve their full potential through tutoring, mentoring and faith-building. 

“I knew that when I left being an administrator that whatever I did I would do something for children,” said Corner regarding her decision to volunteer at New Horizons. “That’s always been in my heart from having worked with children for 40 years.” 

Corner has been an integral part of New Horizons during her six years with the organization. “She was on the ground running with projects and finding opportunities to assist with making sure that any additional stuff needed for the clubs was obtained.” stated Charlotte Nal, MNM, Director of Volunteerism. Corner first volunteered as a tutor and now serves as the Co-Chair of the Community Council for New Horizons. The council consists of representatives from different communities including Naples, Estero, Bonita Springs, and Fort Myers. She is responsible for recruiting new representatives from these communities and getting them involved with the mission through tutoring at the after-school programs, attending fundraising events, and supporting the various programs and projects throughout the school year. 

Corner’s educational and career experience is extensive. She attended Tufts University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in child study and a master’s degree in education with a concentration in learning disabilities. Corner began work as a kindergarten teacher where she realized her passion for helping students with special needs. She became an early childhood coordinator in Lincoln and Newton, Massachusetts and eventually earned her certification as an administrator. Corner was a PK-4 principal in Lowell, Massachusetts at an urban elementary school for five years where she had the privilege of working with families who were refugees settling in the United States. The experience of dealing with people of diverse backgrounds helped make the transition of working with students at New Horizons seamless. “I felt very comfortable with the students, and I also felt drawn to them because of my experience working in Lowell,” stated Corner. 

True volunteerism is about sharing hope and optimism with the world. By graciously offering your time, skills, and energy to infuse others with a feeling of hopefulness. “I feel anything that we can do as citizens to help our teachers, children and parents is very important,” stated Corner. This attitude is why she has impacted so many lives and helped spread a sense of hope, not just in New Horizons, but in the world. 

About New Horizons of SWFL 

New Horizons provides tutoring, mentoring and faith-building programs for more than 500 students annually in Southwest Florida. If you are interested in enrolling your child into one of our 10 trusted neighborhood clubs, call us at 239-948-4146.

Help students get the tools they need to succeed by volunteering or donating. Interested in joining the community council? Email the Director of Volunteerism at volunteer@newhorizonsofswfl.org to get connected today.
Give a Donation: https://bit.ly/3Ixz6IV

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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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The post Volunteers Step Up and Carve New Path first appeared on New Horizons of Southwest Florida.