New Horizons of Southwest Florida, Inc

What I love about New Horizons is being able to hear from the students themselves about the help they receive. It really makes a difference to know I'm supporting a worthwhile cause.

I have served as a volunteer tutor since 2016 for middle school and high school students in the Super Teens Club program. It has been a challenge and privilege to work with these young people and the people who run the program. I have primarily helped with math homework. Seeing these students recognize that they need to develop their skills with and conquer their fears of math has been and continues to be rewarding. When students come back to visit the club once they graduate from high school, and are continuing to grow as young adults in college or the workforce, they are so grateful and enthusiastic. I have seen firsthand what New Horizons of SW FL has and continues to do to give kids structure and guidance as they prepare to go out on their own.

I am a volunteer tutor for students after school. This is a very rewarding experience with a leadership team that is dedicated to the success of the students.
The New Horizons team organizes daily activities for the students and provides all of the necessary materials to ensure students success.

I volunteer with New Horizons as an after school tutor for young children. Helping the kids with their homework and their reading and math skills is both an honor and a delight. This is one of the few organizations that makes me feel both highly valued as a volunteer and also well supported. The staff is very helpful and encouraging and the kids are so sweet and eager and appreciative. I love being a volunteer for New Horizons and I think I gain as much from the experience, and possibly more, as do the students.

I've volunteered for this wonderful organization for the last 6 years. Providing children a safe clean space after school with a Christian environment is much needed in any community. Volunteers help assist with homework, and other educational activities. A wonderful way to give back.

Working with the kids has been a wonderful experience! The program is extremely well run, and the time with the kids is very rewarding.

I do a variety of programs with New Horizons. The kids are very receptive and the staff is so organized and helpful. I have done STEM programs, given talks about the value of education, how to negotiate, interviewing techniques, making crafts etc. What an outstanding program that helps at risk kids thrive. I have been to several different locations and worked with kids of different age groups on their Friday life skill programs. Outstanding in every way. They are careful with their funding and always grateful.

Working with the children and staff at Estero New Horizons has provided blessings to me. When I started to volunteer, I was a recently retired sixth grade teacher in Minnesota, retiring during the height of Covid. The abrupt cease of contact with my students and colleagues was disheartening. Imagine my delight when I found Yady and her staff and eager, happy elementary students in Estero. Not only do I get to help and mentor the students, my heart is filled with the joy of working with children again.
Thank you, New Horizons, for providing this opportunity to give back!

This group is well organized. Great team to work with. Provides a needed service to some underprivileged
children.

I have been volunteering for new horizons for the past five years. I can’t say enough about this organization and the light and hope it brings to our underserved youth. It is such a delight to see the children’s smiles as they walk through the door after a long day at school, many of them still struggle with the English language, but with the help of the tutors in the wonderful teachers in their schools, these children are really succeeding! I am so impressed with the attitudes of the children. They are polite, eager to learn and watch out for their other siblings. So many times And older sibling will come over and thank me for working with their younger sibling .
It really leaves me with such a good feeling to be making a difference with these super kids!

Kathy A

I remain impressed with how New Horizons continues to equip the most vulnerable children and teens in Southwest Florida with after school programming. I am honored to serve on the board.

I continue to work with this nonprofit, as both a member of the board as well as an active volunteer, because of the personal, face-to-face experience I enjoy with its beneficiaries.

I have been volunteering my time with New Horizons for the past 8 years, and it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Its mission is critical to the success of our community - and our nation. Giving students the opportunity and support they need to succeed academically and socially. Hats off to New Horizons.

My multiple year experiences with New Horizons has allowed me to participate in the upgrading of experiences for our youth with inherent disadvantages. I beleive that the youths in our program have a measureable opportunity to have a fulfilling life.

I have been a volunteer with the Estero division of New Horizons of Southwest Florida, Inc for five years. I have volunteered with many organizations, and this has been the one that is most consistently and conscientiously dedicated to its mission: To encourage and enhance the future lives of at risk children through relationships that help them realize their full potential, increase their self-esteem as specially created children of God and help each child feel worthy of future success. Our team, led by Ms. Yady Galano, works tirelessly to make the children’s after school time with us fun yet academically directed. This is especially challenging, as school bus restrictions lead to staggered arrivals of children, so beginning each afternoon requires much focus and attention b y both the team and volunteers. Snacks are provided, then each volunteer works with one, two, or three children, following a strict, written outlined schedule, as structure is what most of these children need. It begins with engaging the child in a discussion highlighting their day, then discussing a memory Bible verse that changes monthly. We then, together, address homework that their teacher has sent. The children are divided into two groups: those who study with a tutor the first hour, then go to work at a computer for the second hour, and those who go to the computer first, then meet with their tutor. The main underlying theme of the entire afternoon is respect for each child. There is discipline, managed in a very loving and positive manner. The children love coming each day - for many, it is the place where they receive the most individualized attention and loving encouragement of their entire day.
During its tenure in Southwest Florida, NHSF has drastically increased not only the percentage of Hispanic children who graduate from high school, but also has an impressive record of those students who go on to graduate from college!
At the present time, in the United States, many aspects of our educational system are failing our children- especially those from low income families. The daily opportunities offered to these children by New Horizons of Southwest Florida are invaluable and serve to strengthen the future quality of life for these future adults and all of society. I am so grateful to be apart of this nonprofit organization. The dedication of everyone involved is astounding.

Being a volunteer with elementary age children who do not have English as their native language is so rewarding. The students and their parents are so appreciative of the help that New Horizons provides their children from Kindergarten through High School. Not only do their children have a safe place to do their homework after school, but they are offered a variety of supplemental opportunities with their friends to interact and learn. The children are cooperative and eager to learn with their tutor's help. As a former elementary school teacher, I know how important having help with your homework is to each student. It reinforces what the student is learning at school so it becomes more of a permanent piece in their brain. Tutors gain any support that they need from the New Horizons organization in a very positive way. As a seasonal resident of Florida, the highlight of my week is tutoring with the children of New Horizons. Thanks so much New Horizons for helping students in Southwest Florida.

My wife and I have served as volunteers for New Horizons’ Super Kids Club for a number of years. This faith-based program is extremely well-run and provides much needed help in improving the educational experience of young children in the program.

I volunteer at New Horizons for several reasons. First, the program is focused not only in the educational needs of the children but on their growth as responsible and faithful human beings. Second, I personally have seen children gain confidence in their skills as learners as well as leaders. And, thirdly, I look forward to working with the children and getting to know them better.

A retired teacher, I was overjoyed to find New Horizons through neighbors who were involved in this program helping young learners to be successful. We work in small groups with underserved students who just need someone to help them progress in their studies and complete their homework. The small groups make it easier to focus on each child's needs and move them along to success. My time with my New Horizons kids brings me a sense of purpose and intense joy. Fulfilment in retirement couldn't offer much more.

I've been a volunteer in the SuperTeens program for about a year. I've now seen some of the students across two school years. Many show noticeable academic and maturity improvement. Maybe as important, most are becoming more self-confident and able to engage in more in-depth discussion. They are willing to discuss topics during devotions, and more capable to look for ways to improve their academic skills.

The leaders of the program are extremely motivated and capable. As a retired university professor, researcher, and author, I recognize dedicated service professionals. The local site staff and central administration leaders are totally in for the mission of New Horizons. I'm glad to play a small part.

New Horizons is such an amazing company with an amazing mission.

I have been with this profit since 5th grade. They have helped profusely with homework, and make sure the students are in a safe environment. Apart from homework help, they even have a camp for the kids to go to, as otherwise some could not go with parents due to work/money/other reasons.

My name is Ashley and I have been at New Horizons since the third grade. Since then they have helped me with my grades and so much more they have gave me many opportunities I can’t have at home and it’s a fun environment to make new friends and get homework done. Not only that we get a free small snack and learn about God as well. Overall a great place!:)

I’m grateful for the people that work here and they are really caring. They are here to support me in school and in life.

I’ve been coming to New Horizons since I was in kindergarten. I’ve always had help on my homework every time I come after school. The staff are very helpful and understanding.

I have been in the New Horizons program since I was in the First grade, I am now a Senior at Estero High School . Throughout all those years I was able to grow my faith with Jesus. In the program there are people that help students finish their homework. They also teach studebts about the word of God and show them the good things he can do for them. New Horizons also helps students get scholarships to help them if they decide to go to college or trade school. The people that work here care about their students and want them to succeed in the future.

This nonprofit helps at-risk youth prepare for the next grade, complete homework, and many more things. This nonprofit allows at-risk youth to understand math, reading and other subjects more throughly with the help of volunteers.

New Horizons of SWFL is an incredible non-profit that does exceptional work to help its community! With school year tutoring, summer programs that strengthen reading for elementary students and leadership skills in middle and high school students, New Horizons does a little bit of it all! Volunteers are a huge part of this program and the organization does much to recruit and keep volunteers involved. Even with the ever changing state academic requirements, New Horizons keeps up and stays relevant.

Working with the children is wonderful! I love seeing their completed projects & their smiling faces. I am also thrilled that they are learning more about how God loves them.

I have been a volunteer tutor and fundraiser for nearly 14 years for New Horizons of Southwest Florida. As a retiree, I can easily give a few hours each week to help children from English as a second language households with their homework. There is no greater satisfaction than to see the 5th graders I have tutored graduate from high school and move on to college. I receive much more in return than the time and effort I give. What wonderful success stories have evolved from these under resourced kids and teens.

I love volunteering at Super Kids club! Our kiddos are amazing. They work hard and have great hearts.

As a volunteer at New Horizons of SWFL, I am most impressed with their mission and organizational values. Their fundamental philosophy provides the students they serve with academic support, strong mentorship and most important, a plan for each student's future. Their servant leadership approach, at all levels of the organization, models the behaviors that students can observe and employ as they begin to work with others. It is a gem of an organization and is most valuable in improving the quality of life of our children and young adults!

In 2021, I tutored 4th graders through New Horizons of Southwest Florida.I was also a contributor. It was a priviledge to work along these beautiful children. They have so much potential. They carry the label "at risk" because they face difficult life experiences. They, or their parents, made the dangerous, desperate trek from Central America. Once in the United States, they live in abject povrty, Often raised by one parent who is not English fluent. Often the child assumes the role of de-facto parent for the younger siblings, while the mother works 2 even three minimum wage labor jobs. Yet, with these presures each child strives to be a good studentand to bring honor to their family. Our job is to guide the child to see their unique gift and to realize their potential. By helping one child you benefit everybody that that child will influence throughout his/her life,

I volunteer to help underserved children. It’s so rewarding to watch these children start in kindergarten and graduate high school and tell their success stories.

I have been volunteering with New Horizons as a tutor since 2018 and community board member since 2019. As a former urban elementary school principal, I know first hand what the tutoring and mentoring means to these students. The students look forward to their after school work with the tutors from the community. The older students are eager to share what the tutoring and mentoring has meant to them throughout the years in the program. During the months of online learning, at the beginning of the pandemic, New Horizons helped support the students’ access to the internet as well as provided after school tutoring online. Many students participate in the program from Kindergarten through high school. Mentoring during the high school years is a special opportunity as the students get ready for opportunities in higher education. Last year, I helped organize and distribute a new book to each of the K-5 students. The program is supported by area churches as well as grants and fundraising. Being faith based, the students learn a new Bible verse each month and end each tutoring session with Christian worship songs with the NH staff. I highly recommend this organization as a very worthwhile volunteering opportunity and a nonprofit to support financially.

I was searching for a worthy organization to volunteer with and New Horizons absolutely fits the bill! Their mission is wonderful - faith and education - and is carried out by their very caring and engaged staff. I really enjoy working with these children and look forward to watching them become more confident in their abilities and their futures.

My wife & I first got involved through our church, Restoration, in 2005 when we used live in Naples. Bob & Ellen Nichols just amazed us with the way they were helping their kids get a leg up. We helped with SuperKids Church on Sundays and I worked with Bob in restoring the sailing schooner he used to take kids on mission trips to the Bahamas. Ever since we have supported New Horizons to the best of our ability because of the great work that is done. We also helped a couple of times when the luncheon fundraising was at a local club. Diane helped inside with the auction displays and I helped park cars outside. We moved back up to Ormond Beach in 2010 but have stayed in touch over the years. And, most importantly everything is done and accomplished in God's and Jesus' name. Thank you for all you do.

New Horizons has helped me tremendously with succeeding in high school! They have provided me with no cost transportation, tutoring and mentoring services to me. They have helped me grow as a person, and I thank them for that!

My name is Yuliet Valdez and I am proud to say that I have been in this organization since Kindergarten. This organizations has given me countless opportunities to grow in my faith along with having a joyous life. Not only that but they have provided me with so much help and support with my school work and just in general, life. I am so thankful with this programs, I just had to share my story and say THANK YOU!

I am a student at New Horizons and have been since 7th grade. The organization has helped me throughout the school year by giving me a place to study and work without getting distracted. Currently, they are helping me apply for colleges, financial aid, and scholarships. I'm very grateful for this organization because it brought me closer to God and was able to help keep my grades up.

I’ve been a student of New Horizon’s since elementary, and now that I’m a high school student who’s finishing up I couldn’t be more grateful to have been with them for these years. They’ve motivated me to do my school work and finish my school work.

Education and opportunity are the lifeline to achieving success. Being an immigrant myself, my gratitude for all that I have achieved in life allows me to give back to these kids in whose faces I see my own. Making them feel confident that they can excel, that they are loved and anything is possible if they work hard is the best gift I can give them. I am blessed to have them in my life thanks to New Horizons of Southwest Florida.

I am current student of this organization I’ve been a part of it since the 1st grade. I honestly can’t imagine how my life would’ve gone without it. They have not only helped me through my homework and school but they even made me the person I am today. I am currently a Take Stock student who has gotten straight A’s almost every quarter and I’m currently a part of dual enrollment at FSW. So I would like to thank New Horizions, for their mentor ship and support because without them I wouldn’t be where I am today. So thank you New Horizions, for everything!

I have been part of the program since first grade. They have helped me complete my homework assignments correctly. I am glad to be part of this program, and the tutors that come in are nice and friendly. Not only do they help me with my school assignments, but they help increase my relationship with God. They show me how to increase my faith and how I could also help others do the same.

New Horizons is a non-profit organization providing at-risk local children the opportunity to choose a different path for their lives. Volunteering weekly for the past eight years, has been such a privilege for me. Witnessing the progress, positive changes, and successes in not only the children, but also many of their families, fills me with pure joy and such hope for the future. I have been working with children my entire life, but volunteering for New Horizons SKC has been my most rewarding experience, and hopefully a positive one for the children I have touched over the years. Jeni Nance

New Horizons is an amazing organization doing extraordinary things for students and families in SW Florida. I am a volunteer and work with high school students on their writing. These kids have real talent and it is a privilege for me to help them along their journey. As a former teacher, I am lucky to have this opportunity in my retirement. To a person, the boys and girls I have worked with have been eager to improve and pleasant to work with. New Horizons deserves all the praise it receives.

I have been a part of the New Horizons program since Kindergarten and I truly believe in my heart that the program has changed me for the better. From being tutored and mentored, helped with my homework, and taught daily bible lessons when I attend, it has helped me be strong in many aspects of my life. My parents are very grateful for the many hours I have spent within the program with the opportunity to be helped in subjects that I haven't understood in class over the years. I am soon to become one of our graduating seniors and I am in awe that the program has had me for all these years. I also found my first job within the program to help give back to my community. It has changed many lives and will continue to do so in the future. Empowering tomorrow's generation, today.

As a volunteer for the past 8 years I can say that it doesn't get any better than tutoring students who are a joy to be with. Seeing their smiling faces and the progress they make from the beginning of the school year to the end is well worth it! On my way home after tutoring I am always in better spirits after having been with the students. God blesses the giver - as I have experienced over and over again. There is also joy in seeing former students grow and become mature men and women, who strive for excellence and make a difference in their family, community and world.

New Horizons of SW Florida is a nonprofit with a heart of gold. This organization provides extraordinary after school and summer enrichment programs for at-risk students. As a SW Florida educator, I have long been aware of the outstanding opportunities available to children, via this extraordinary organization. For the past two years, it has been my pleasure to serve as a Board Member.

I am so blessed to donate time and funds to this organization, which is really making a difference in the lives of young people in our community. Beyond tutoring and help with their schoolwork, students learn how to plan for a life beyond their school years. They examine the connection between education and earning potential, and they learn about character, integrity, and incorporating faith into their daily lives.

I have been tutoring High School students for 4 years, and it's amazing to watch the grow, mature, graduate and begin their future! I'm not sure who gets more out of the experience...the students or me!

After school tutoring through New Horizons has been such a blessing to me these last 3 years! Touching the lives of these "at-risk" students and helping them break the cycle of poverty through literacy is not only changing their lives, but it helps our community in so many ways. We are fortunate to have such a dedicated staff, and so many committed volunteers. We are truly changing lives!

I have served as a volunteer tutor for New Horizon's after school program. Also, I mentor two of their students, one through the Take Stock in Children Program and the other the STAMP program. Both students are gifted in their own ways, and no doubt successful due to their early involvement with New Horizon's program. They've been encouraged to be leaders and givers, with a strong community and high school commitment. New Horizon's programs work, as they are both practical and inspirational.

Who receives the greater reward from the New Horizons of SWFL after-school program ~ the students or the volunteer? Knowing that the kids have transportation to and from a supervised environment, if both parents are working; watching them interact respectfully with their peers & adults; giving hugs and smiles as they greet me, & enriching reading, math and homework skills. And, that's only 1/4 of the program! Students also are offered a snack, computer time & character development. And, THAT only covers K-6th grade!! Programs are also offered for students in 7-12 grade. College tuition is an option, if the senior qualifies. I cannot imagine a more valuable program. You may have guessed ~ this volunteer believes that the reward is hers :)

I have been involved in fundraising for New Horizons of SWF for several years. This year I began tutoring. Fundraising isn't an easy job, but seeing the students' eyes light up at the start of our tutoring sessions, eager to work and learn, motivates me to do all that I can do to give these children the tools they need to explore new horizons and break their cycle of poverty.

I have been involved as a volunteer for 7 years. I was working on the senior speaches for the different events this year where they would be presenting and was consistently delighted with their willingness and ability to write their talks, skill and confidence in practicing and their willingness to take feedback from me and their peers.
I was brought to tears just last week by the amount of difference we/ I can personally make. Most personally fulfilling connection with a large organization I have ever had in my life.
Jo Gallico

New Horizons provides a chance for kids, who otherwise could be at risk, to get a helping hand. It also gives the tutors a chance to make a difference! It begs the question, who is getting more? I think everyone is lucky...they are all changed for the good!!

An outstanding organization, with a much needed mission, achieving exceptional results.

I have been a donor and advisor for more than 10 years and am still moved by the life changing impact this organization has on at risk kids. The coordinated family of NH programs covers K-12 and helps kids develop their abilities, build self confidence and acquire the tools needed to create a faith based plan for their lives. The organization uses all donations thoughtfully under the guidance of an engaged Board of Directors . A dedicated professional staff organizes and leads an ever-growing group of committed local volunteers.

New Horizons is a great organization where kids K-12th grade have been able to find a place they can call home. For the past 3 years that I have been involved with New Horizons, I have seen that their focus is 100% the students and their academic and social success. New Horizons put their students first and their needs. It is a great organization and a positive place for all those that are part of them.

I’m a junior who has been in the program since kindergarten, new horizons has helped me receive a 4 year scholarship.

I have been in New Horizons for almost 4 years already. This program has helped tutor me when I needed help on my homework. They have helped me apply for many scholarships. I think this program is great and I would recommend for anyone who hasn't joined yet.

New Horizons of SWFL is an outstanding mentoring and tutoring program! The staff is exceptional, extremely dedicated to the children they serve. They truly make a difference in the lives of at-risk youth, grades K-12.

I’ve been at New Horizons since my Kindergarten year. I’m currently a junior in high school. This program has helped shape me into who I am today.

I am a High School senior, and I have been with this program for 13 years, and honestly this has been the best 13 years. They have helped me with my academics and have helped me grow closer to God. Without them I wouldn't be where I'm at today.

An amazing organization that helps students grow in their faith and and helps grow their education

New Horizons is a wonderful gift for the children. They learn just how much God loves them! The program schedule is very well organized. I have felt comfortable knowing just how I can help each child. I love listening to a child read a book as well as the Bible verse.

I have volunteered for the past four years with Super Kids Club. I recommend this volunteer experience to my friends many of whom have joined me. These kids soak up learning and are a delight to spend the afternoon with. One 4th grader told me after I taught him how to write his name in cursive that he would never forget me. Wow! Made my day and year!!

New Horizons of Southwest Florida has answered a multitude of prayers from local families who need additional support for their children's academic, social, and emotional needs. God bless the staff, volunteers, and families who have been positively impacted by this organization.

New Horizons puts children first. This makes such a difference for the kids in their school work. The kids are thirsty to learn and New Horizons' volunteers and staff are intent on helping them. This faith-based organization is sharing God's love with the students and teaching them the difference between right and wrong. I love my volunteer work the New Horizons.

New Horizons not only improves the educational experiences of over 400 at-risk youth K-12 annually in our community, it tracks results via high school graduation rates, reading scores and honor roll rates. The organization efficiently deploys a combination of private donations and volunteer hours that dramatically impact lives of individuals and their families. Volunteers and monetary donors alike know their resources are getting the highest possible returns and that they are making a real difference.

I am in my third year of tutoring, and have "specialized" in teaching 4th graders, so that next year, I can teach these same kids as fifth graders, to preserve continuity in their educational process. It is so rewarding when you see the light bulb come on as they grasp how or why a problem gets solved through an action that you taught them. Plus they share a common goal in learning, that they do together, which fosters team building skills, cooperation, and communications. New Horizons took a basic concept of helping a few kids that needed help, and have expanded it to cover the whole gamut from K through twelve for over 440 kids a year! Thank you Ellen and Debra for your ceaseless efforts in helping all these kids!

I began working with New Horizons last year, volunteering as a tutor to fourth and fifth graders. These children are so wonderful, but are starting out behind in school, because they come from non-English speaking homes, with little support for their school work. New Horizons not only gives them the extra help they need, but provides them with access to caring and supportive adults, from whom they can learn to be successful and contributing members of society.
The staff are wonderful. This organization is so well managed, taking a thoughtful approach to growth, despite an overwhelming need, so they can create sustained, long-term success.
Thanks to New Horizons, children who otherwise would have been left behind are now able to flourish. This is truly a case of saving the world, one child at a time.

I love volunteering with New Horizons! The staff is great to work with, so organized and caring. The kids are honestly grateful to have us there to help them with their homework every day because they couldn't do it alone at home. They tell me about things going on in their life. Such a fulfilling experience. We are all so fortunate to have a place like New Horizons.

This organization is one of the best I have ever seen at instilling faith-based values in young children as well as giving them a hands up through tutoring. I hope they continue to grow so that they can help more and more children!

I just want to say thank New Horizons from the bottom of my heart for the help my students have been getting this year! As I prepare report cards and look at end of quarter data, there has been a significant increase in both reading and math grades and test scores– representing an average 7 month increase in the 2.5 months since the quarter began in late January!

The students are also demonstrating more personal responsibility and self-confidence. I cannot thank you enough for offering such an outstanding program to our students.

I started as a tutor and loved the work. The kids we work with are like little sponges. The look on their faces as they learn something new brings tears to your eyes. I am no longer able to do the tutoring. The wonderful staff found a new place for me in their office. I know what I am doing supports a terrific program , I feel very Blessed.

It is unfortunate that an organization with so many good attributes feels it needs to push so called 'Christian values' on young people as part of it's program. Why can it not embrace everyone unconditionally?

Great organizaton doing awesome things for the community and future generations!

I have worked for New Horizon Super Kids Reading Camp for the last two summers. The amount of growth I have seen in the student's reading confidence, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension skills is impressive! Students' understanding and love for the Lord through the VBS portion is heartwarming. New Horizons has a special place in my heart and is truly a wonderful impact on Southwest Florida's families.

This is a wonderful organization doing great things for the community. Keep up the good work!

I have so much admiration for New Horizons; to see how much impact the organization has on some of the children in our community is extremely enlightening. Great job New Horizons!

New Horizons is an amazing organization. It is a blessing to have the opportunity to volunteer with them.

Great organization doing great things! The impact on the kiddos is always inspiring.

Working with at-risk kids after school to enhance their math and reading skills is extremely rewarding. The improvement these kids make with personal attention is remarkable. Additionally, the kids learn how to interact with each other and with adults in a warm and friendly environment. A wonderful experience for the volunteers to make such an impactful contribution to the future of this area.

Being the host pastor for the East Naples site is and has been a total win/win. The benefits for us of hosting New Horizons accrue everyday. Our church is more connected to the community as a place of help, our church members volunteer and receive a personal blessing, and under served children in our neighborhood are given a hand up to the chance for a better life. The staff and administration are always responsive and are easy to work with. A big thumbs up for New Horizons!

I had never volunteered as a mentor for children before, but I did teach sailing to kids 9 to 16 years old a few years ago, and I recalled that I had enjoyed watching them absorb the info I was teaching them. So when I was presented with the opportunity to teach at-risk children, I figured, "why not?". After 9 months of weekly sessions with mainly fourth graders, I again got to experience that same joy. The New Horizons programs are very well done and well thought out. The kids really appreciate the help that they get from volunteers, and it leaves you feeling so rewarded for your efforts! The results are obvious, and I eagerly await the new school year to do it again.

I tutor two days per week at New Horizons. It is amazing how much the kids have improved throughout the school year. I am confident that many of these kids will be the first to attend college in their families. Also, they will be great contributors to our nation as adults.

New Horizon has helped me to stay on track with my grades and I made new friends. And I learned about God and they help me since I was 5. They have been a big influence in my life.

New Horizons has helped me with my schooling and also in my faith. I have grown in faith for God. New Horizons has provided new opportunities in my life. Now I know that I have an opportunity to go off to college and get my college degree in any career I choose.

I am a board member of The Bridge Fund, a 501[c][3] charity helping people in crisis and educational needs in the greater Bonita Springs/Estero area. New Horizons is one of our partners, organizations who bring us needs that they are unable to meet in full themselves. We partner with New Horizons in helping economically disadvantaged kids, teens and their families. New Horizons does exceptional work in helping kids be successful in school, develop high ethics and values, and set goals for themselves to become successful in life. They also work with the parents to support their kids, become better citizens and to cope with economic issues they sometimes face. We are proud to be partners with New Horizons and mutually help needy people to cope with difficult situations in their lives.

This is my third year tutoring "at-risk" high school kids in mathematics in the New Horizons Super Teens Club. I am a retired educator and had careers in elite schools. For me, this is my chance to give back to deserving, wonderful young boys and girls. From Day 1, I was hooked. I was "Mr. Larry" to the boys and girls I tutored in every math subject: algebra, geometry, trigonometry, advanced algebra, pre-calculus, and, soon, calculus. The tutoring begins each day after a Bible lesson and discussion. Never before in my teaching career have I felt that I am making as much of a difference as each week in my work with these boys and girls. In my first year, it was one wonderful young man who needed to pass math to graduate. He passed. He graduated. Many NH "graduates" come back to help and mentor. Two young men who graduated last year and are now freshman in college come back to work with the younger kids. Working at New Horizons, one feels he/she is part of a very special family. Importantly, the New Horizons program is professionally run and supremely well-organized! Most importantly, New Horizons gives hundreds of young boys and girls the opportunity to become the men and women they aspire to be. Without New Horizons, the futures of these kids would not be nearly as bright. There could be no more noble cause.

New Horizons is a wonderful organization bettering the lives of our youth every single day and enriching our community. I have had the pleasure of getting to know Debra Haley, the Executive Director, and have seen her help this organization grow and prosper. There is definitely a need and New Horizons is fulfilling it and much more.

Sometimes we forget the true joys in life. Monday, upon my return to New Horizons of SWFL to begin my seventh season of tutoring, I was immediately reminded of the satisfaction and joy received from the eager and grateful young students as they learn to overcome fear and shyness and gain confidence in learning new skills. Volunteer tutors can and do make a difference in the lives of young children.

I have attended this program since I was in 1st grade. I remember when I had a terrible time with my homework. My mom didn't know English and couldn't help me with any of my homework. I am thankful for having them help me change my life and also thankful for helping me apply for and be awarded the Take Stock in Children Scholarship.

I have attended the NEW HORIZONS OF SOUTHWEST for 6 years. it has improved my grades and helped me become a better student.

I started last year with new horizons, they have helped me with my school work when i have a hard time understanding a subject and the best part is that it's one on one. Also thanks to them i had a one in a life chance opportunity to go to Peru with ten other girls.

I have been with New horizons for 10 years. They have helped me stay out of trouble and helped me stay in school. They tutored me when I needed help with my school work. This organization has impacted my life dramatically. I would like to thank New Horizons for everything they have done for me.

I have attended the afterschool program at New Horizons for the last 10 years and it has helped me through school. This organization helped me improve my grades and understand the importance of doing well in school.

New Horizions provides the kind of assistance to young people that is desperately needed to help them succeed in today's world. My wife and I both tutor and find the staff and volunteers focused on only helping the kids succeed. I also am a new member of the Board. This group leaders is a great resource to the mission of New Horizons. It is well run and focused on the goal building a great organization.

New Horizons is a wonderful local non-profit serving the children of Lee and Collier County who are in need of tutoring in an after school environment. The staff and volunteers are devoted and loving. The results are seen in how well these children are doing in school. From the perspective of a board member, New Horizons is efficiently managed, fiscally prudent and completely transparent to its donors.

My husband and I have become involved with New Horizons through our church. If I had to summarize this oraganization in a statement I would say, "ABOVE AND BEYOND." On their website New Horizons will tell you that they are an after school based program that help high risk students succeed academically and spiritually, but of course they go above and beyond that. They become the students' advocate, motivator, tutor, mentor, friend, and counselor. The things that each and every single staff member does for the children is phenomenal. For example, if just one child or teen is interested in joining the worship team at church, someone will pick them up and drive them to practice. If there is an outing that would benefit the kids someone is finding a way to get them there.

So back to the beginning my husband and I became involved with New Horizons about a year ago. Words can not even begin to explain the growth and maturity and the new sense of belonging the kids we've gotten to know feel because of the time, commitment, and love the New Horizons organization has poured into them. We love, love, love what this organization is doing for kids.

This is a great organziation from the leadership to the volunteers! The mission, vision and passion the organization exhibits is above and beyond other organziatoins I have volunteered with or have supported through donations. They are making a differenece!

What a great organization with an such an impactful purpose. This organization truly affects each and every child they work with on a day-to-day basis. My wife and I are pleased to be able to spend time in worship with several of the New Horizons children every Sunday morning and couldn't be more excited about it! It's great to see these kids growing both educationally and in faith!

I first learned of New Horizons while working in admin at Bonita Springs Elementary School. Over the last 10 years, my experiences with NH have been positively amazing. Their programs, outreach and camps are life-changing, encouraging and huge blessings to their clients, their families, and our community at large. The staff and volunteers are highly professional and intentional. Their track record is commendable. Their student choir is phenomenal! For me, a very memorable thing is that when you see a bus full of NH kids disembark, every face shines bright with a beautiful smile, evidence of the good work being poured into them.

New Horizons provides a wonderful environment for kids to enhance their education and obtain mentoring from volunteers. The results have been outstanding with solid improvements in grades and a rise in the kids overall confidence.

"Hello Mrs Mote we love you" is what I heard as I was biking around our park yesterday late afternoon. In fact, every time I came around to that part of the park their loving words rang out. I stopped to say hello to the beautiful faces of some of the children I met while volunteering at The New Horizon's summer reading program. These children are so grateful for the opportunities and resources provided to them. I know this to be true as I am also a substitute teacher at our local school and I see the results! These children are our future leaders, voters, volunteers, and contributors to our community so any support you can offer will be appreciated. Love in Christ, Kamala Mote

New horizons is focused on at risk children. I believe Children are our biggest resource for a better America. Education is the foundation for kids to grow and contribute to society. New Horizons works hard to see that ALL kids have an education. Even if you can't wrap your heart around kids than wrap your head around the fact that over just 1 lifetime can cost up to $300.00.00 to tax payers!! I have worked with charities for children for over 25 years. New Horizons is one of the best and has the PASSION to help our kids succeed. Whenever you have the chance to support New Horizons know your helping kids and America. This is something we can ALL support!!

I have a been a Big Brother for the last 10 years in Texas and I have watched my little struggle with his education and development skills within the public education system. I have watched a great kid struggle due to lack of English communication and education at home, no one being home after or before school, lack a strong value system at home, and an education system that is not set up to provide the 1:1 tutoring he requires excel in school.

I was blessed to meet one of the founders of New Horizons last year and was able to learn about the program which led to my wife and I volunteering. The New Horizons program provides a strong academic curriculum and positive encouragement with fundamental christian values. The New Horizons program is providing their kids with the tools and individual attention to allow them to excel academically and become future leaders. The New Horizon leadership works very closely with the school system which has been a tremendous help to the teachers responsible for the children. In addition, the program has reached the children's families and the community to help them with a variety of needs.

I have been involved and on the board of many non profit organizations. New Horizons is at the top of the list as it relates to their commitment to their mission statement, organization, financial management and leadership.

I am so happy for the children benefiting from New Horizons and I can only wish that my Little had this type of program available to him back in Texas!

I have thoroughly enjoyed volunteering with this organization. There is a definite need in the community for the after school tutoring, and I can tell that I am directly influencing the students to help them have a better future. I look forward to working with them for years to come.

I first learned about New Horizons and Super Kids in 2006, when I was doing research for a community foundation study about community needs. I was very impressed with the program, the kids, and their enthusiasm as they participated with the committed tutor/mentors who helped them with their homework. I was instrumental in getting grant funds for computers to provide much needed computer assisted instruction, and have had the opportunity to watch students progress over the years to become effective high school students, and then college students. The enthusiasm of the students for this program is that proof that this is effective and meaningful in improving educational results for these kids.

As a board member, my standards are very high for financial management and for program execution. New Horizons staff does incredible work while operating with minimum paid staff. The tens of thousands of volunteer hours are freely given, because the discipline of program execution assures that each student is guided in a personal and effective way. The greatest challenge we face is to organize our support so that his program can be extended to more children.

I have participated in over a dozen non-profit boards, and find New Horizons to get greater results from each donated dollar of any other NPO I've observed. This is a remarkable program serving some of our most vulnerable and at-risk people..... children from ESL homes in low income areas. I will continue to support New Horizons in every way that I can.

While I was in eighth grade, I found about about New Horizons and I decided to join the Super Teen Club. My experience at the Super Teen Club is Terrific because of how kind the people are that help me. Also, Ms.Ellen was very helpful because of how understanding she was and how very welcoming she made me feel. She taught me so much, she helped me understand math. Since being at New Horizons, I have been on the A & B honor roll. My experience with New Horizons is magnificent; it has really helped me. Because of New Horizons, I was able to apply for a 4-year college scholarship and with the help of Ms.Ellen, I was able to receive the Take Stock and Children scholarship. The New Horizons has changed my life!
Thank You,
-Evelyn
Super Teen Club

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.