Causes: Community Foundations, Philanthropy

Mission: The lives of the children of Immokalee are deeply rooted in poverty. The community largely consists of migrant workers who work long hours in the fields, harvesting much of the nation's fresh produce. Since 1991, The Immokalee Foundation has been building pathways to success for the children of Immokalee. We empower these students (from kindergarten to career) through programs focused on education, vocation, and life skills, offering them the tools, opportunities, support and encouragement they need at each level of their education which will lead to economic independence.

Results: The Immokalee Foundation now serves over 1,400 students each year. 100% of our students graduate from high school- in sharp contrast to the 39% high school graduation rate amongst adults over the age of 25 in Immokalee. 100% of our students pursue a college or vocational pathway. 91% of our students graduate from college or a post-secondary vocational program- in sharp contrast to the 5% college graduation rate in Immokalee and the 28% rate in the the state of Florida. Our early literacy program, which serves over 700 at-risk readers every year, produces measurable gains for 94% - 100% of its students.

Target demographics: Immokalee's children from kindergarten to career

Direct beneficiaries per year: 1,359 students

Geographic areas served: Immokalee Florida

Programs: Immokalee Readers: The Immokalee Readers program is an intensive reading intervention program, targeting the lower 25% of readers from kindergarten through third grade. This after-school program matches elementary students with high-school age tutors for productive, enjoyable reading lessons. While elementary students are making reading gains, the tutors themselves improve their overall reading proficiency and develop new skills and confidence mentoring early readers. The high school tutors are paid a stipend and gain valuable professional experience. Many choose to become teachers and return to Immokalee after college to serve future generations.
Take Stock In Children: scholarships are awarded to qualified students who successfully fulfill their pledge to earn good grades, exhibit good behavior, volunteer community service time and meet weekly with a mentor. Students are awarded a college scholarship to any Florida state college, university or vocational school upon high school graduation.
Career development and leadership activities include: participation by students in vocational and on-the-job training, as well as summer internships with area businesses - experiences that emphasize leadership, skills development, and community service. The program enhances the students' professional skills necessary to become confident, productive and successful citizens. The program also provides tuition, scholarships and after-school tutoring. The immokalee Foundation also provides support for experiences that provide leadership, life skills opportunities and opportunities to attend camps, college programs and workshops.
College Success: provides ongoing academic advisement and mentorship for students, helping them to set up individual academic plans that allow them to excel and graduate from college. The program assists students as they navigate the complex world of financial aid and helps them to optimize their college experience.