New Horizons of Southwest Florida is governed by a dedicated board of community leaders who are passionate about helping at risk children and youth achieve their full potential. The organization is professionally managed by Executive Director Debra Haley, a very talented and skilled executive who is always seeking to improve the organization and how it functions. Founders Ellen and Bob Nichols continue to be closely involved in the organization, providing direction, expertise and encouragement to the staff, board, volunteers and the children in the programs. The volunteers I have met are some of the most generous-hearted people I've ever met. When they mentor the children in the programs, volunteers can see first-hand the difference they are making in the children's lives. When they share their stories about their experiences working with the children, you can immediately see how the lives of these volunteers have been touched. New Horizons is truly a place where the volunteers reap the rewards of their service alongside the young people they are helping. Its a place worthy of our time and support, and I'm proud to be associated with this worthwhile organization.

I've had a great experience with Freedom Waters Foundation, first as a program participant, and also as a volunteer. My daughter has special needs, and we were invited to go on an outing hosted by Cruise Naples. It was a great experience that we both enjoyed. We were blessed with the opportunity to go on another outing the following year, and everyone was just as friendly and accommodating as the first time. What I like most is the way everyone makes us feel welcome. After being on the boat as a program participant, I became a FWF volunteer. As a volunteer, I enjoy helping out with small tasks like writing notecards or checking guests in at the registration table. Or simply being a part of the team that makes the trip a welcoming, fun and safe boating experience for other families. If I can make someone else feel welcome and appreciated by sharing a smile or sending a card in the mail, then my time as a volunteer was well-spent. And the FWF team always makes ME feel appreciated, even for performing the simplest of tasks. Its like a big family, and each time I go to FWF outings I have opportunities for socializing with people I enjoy and for making new friends.