No matter what your passion or your needs are, you should be able to find several local organizations right here in our community that meet your needs. If you are fortunate enough to be able to give back, please consider giving your time, attention or donations to one of these worthwhile causes.
Click here to access our 2013 Giving Back Directory
Click here to access our 2014 Giving Back Directory
Click here to access our 2015 Giving Back Directory
Able Academy
theableacademy.org
The ABLE Academy is committed to the study of human behavior and development and its effective application to persons with identified needs. ABLE Academy includes a full-time school program for preschool through high school, social skill classes, and an early intensive intervention clinic.
How you can help: 100% of donations help offset the cost of therapy for children in need.
Additional Needs Incorporated
info@additionalneeds.info
Additional Needs Inc.’s mission is to provide a user-friendly and time-saving website (which is currently under construction) providing current and comprehensive information on available resources to assist children and adults with additional needs and their families in finding appropriate services. We also work to employ individuals with additional needs to research and maintain the website.
Adonis Autism
adonisautism.org
Adonis Autism believes in creating a future for adults with autism. They envision a world that provides lasting security for families with autism. Their intention is to help families live in a world where parents of children with autism are not desperate and hopeless about their future and that of their loved ones. Their mission is to create a community for families, seniors, and adults with disabilities living together in a supportive, caring, and affordable environment. Osprey Village is a safe, affordable, financially sustainable long-term residential cohousing community providing meaningful work, recreation, education, and training for individuals with disabilities and their families. It provides affordability, a supportive and comprehending community and a secure and safe space created and managed by the very families it serves.
How you can help: Volunteers can help with projects, workshops, fundraising events, and technology.
Alzheimer’s Association
alz.org/flgulfcoast
Many families care for a loved one who has this devastating disease. The mission of the Alzheimer’s Association is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.
How you can help: Participate in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s on November 7, 2015 at 9 a.m. at Fleischman Park in Naples. Create a team or join one by registering at the website listed above. Contact Summer Reyes at 941-365-8883 or reyess@alzflgulf.org for more information.
Angels Undercover
angels-undercover.org
Promotes education by providing clothing (school uniforms, underwear, and socks) to those who otherwise would come to school inadequately dressed. By giving the children school clothing and undergarments, Angles Under- cover helps them arrive at school ready to learn.
How you can help: 100% of donations go to clothing for a needy child. $25 will provide one student with two shirts, two pants, socks and underwear.
Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary
239-348-9151
Corkscrew.Audubon.org
Protects the natural resources of the 13,000-acre Sanctuary and the Western Everglades and influences restoration for the benefit of birds, other wildlife and people through land management, scientific research, education and advocacy. The Blair Audubon Visitor Center includes a 2.25-mile boardwalk that winds through the world’s largest stand of old growth bald cypress trees and includes a Discovery Center, Gallery Café and Nature Store along with seasonal events, workshops and volunteer opportunities.
Baby Basics of Collier County
babybasicscollier.org• info@babybasicscollier.org
Baby Basics of Collier County is an all-volunteer organization that has provided over 7.5 million diapers to babies from hardworking, low-income families in Collier County and Bonita Springs who do not receive any federal or state cash assistance since its inception in 2004.
How you can help: Volunteers help move and distribute diapers, organize diaper drives, assist with publicity and participate in several fundraising events throughout the year.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Suncoast, Collier County Chapter
bbbssun.org
Big Brothers and Big Sisters provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-on-one relationships that change their lives for the better.
How you can help: Naples High School was the first to match high school juniors and seniors with a child. Volunteers also can participate in a school-based program at Shadowlawn Elementary School, or by spending time interacting together out in the community.
Blessings in a Backpack
blessingsinswfl.org
This unique program is designed to provide weekend nourishment to children grades K-5 in eight Title 1 schools in Lee County and two in Collier County. Food is distributed through a network of volunteers and school officials on Fridays before the children leave for the weekend. All students served are recipients of the national Free and Reduced Meal/Lunch program. Most of the recipients are in a household with a single parent or with parents who are classified as working poor – those individuals who are employed but don’t earn enough to make ends meet. Weekend backpacks include ready to eat food items: Fruit Roll Ups, Pop Tarts, lemonade and other drink mix packs, instant noodles, peanut butter, macaroni and cheese, rice, beans, granola, pasta, instant potatoes, dry cereal, etc. All food choices are kid friendly. This means the food distributed is healthy, light in weight and easy for children of all ages to carry, easy to make, and non-perishable. They rely on private donors to purchase this food, as well as supermarkets that give the organization a substantial discount.
How you can help: A donation of $100 feeds a child for an entire school year. Volunteers are needed to sort food and stuff backpacks each week.
Books for Collier Kids
www.booksforcollierkids.org
Books for Collier Kids (formerly First Book-Collier County) is dedicated to putting a steady stream of new books into the hands of children living in poverty in our community – books for them to read and own.
Boy Scouts/Cub Scouts
www.beascout.org • jamesg@scouting.org
Children in grades K-12 enjoy great adventures and fun activities with kids their own age in a familly-friendly environment. They learn leadership, mor- als, and values while maximizing their ability to succeed in life.
The Boys & Girls Club of Collier County
bgcc.com
The Boys & Girls Club serves 3,000 children and teens by offering a safe place for young people to learn, grow and develop ongoing relationships with caring adult professionals who support their educational, emotional, physical and social development. The Club offers many programs in the arts, sports, fitness, health, life skills, education and career development to help youth build self esteem and values.
How you can help: Volunteers must be at least 16 years old and can help with special events or work with children as tutors or mentors. Having a party? Let the Culinary Department cater your next event. Golfers can participate in the FORE-the-Kids Golf Tournament on November 7 where they will be paired with children in a putting competition.
Brooke’s Legacy Animal Rescue Inc.
BrookesLegacyAnimalRescue.org
Brooke’s Legacy Animal Rescue saves adoptable pets from euthanasia at the kill shelters and places them in permanent, loving homes.
How you can help: Young students can volunteer with their parents. Opportunities include helping with cat care, fundraising, foster care, dog walking at events, event coordination, and donations of dog and cat supplies such as food, clay cat litter, leashes, bleach and paper towels. Families can foster or adopt pets and give them a second chance.
Buddy Break Naples
www.NathanielsHope.org • BuddyBreakNaples@gmail.com
A monthly free and fun respite program offered to families with children who have special needs and their typical siblings. Three hours offered to parents/ caregivers typically the third Friday evening of each month.
Caleb’s Crusade Against Childhood Cancer
calebscrusade.org
Caleb’s Crusade supports advocacy, raises awareness for childhood cancer, and directly funds local families aiding in the financial challenges that come with such a diagnosis. This organization has helped families of childhood cancer with paying bills, groceries, medical equipment and travel expenses. Caleb’s Crusade was founded by Rob and Monique Whan in honor of their son Caleb, who lost his fight with leukemia at the age of four.
How you can help: Caleb’s Crusade welcomes adults, students and children to volunteer at their fundraising events throughout the year.
Cancer Alliance of Naples
cancerallianceofnaples.com
Every dollar raised stays locally to help people touched by cancer by pro- viding financial aid with non-medical bills (rent, utilities, automobile costs), support, education, and information services. CAN also offers free group counseling, free nutrition programs, college scholarships for graduating se- niors who are cancer survivors, and an extensive library for anyone in the community to use.
How you can help: Enjoy a comfortable volunteer office with plenty of coffee and a friendly environment. CAN volunteers assist with the reception desk, telephones, mailings and data entry. CAN volunteers also help with event planning and preparation throughout the year. KidsCAN is a program where high school kids help kids who are dealing with cancer.
Care Club of Collier County, Inc.
colliercareclub.org
The Care Club of Collier County is a not-for-profit organization that provides day care for people afflicted with Alzheimer’s Disease and other memory disorders. The Care Club also provides respite during the day for 24-hour caregivers.
How you can help: Donations are accepted. Call for other opportunities.
Catholic Charities of Collier County
catholiccharitiescc.org • star@catholiccharitiescc.org
Catholic Charities aims to fight poverty, strengthen families, and build com- munities through agency services and programs that ensure human dignity and enhance the quality of life for all persons regardless of race, creed, color, or religious affiliation.
How you can help: Catholic Charities currently needs help stocking food shelves and distributing food to those in need, K-12 tutors, volunteers with School on Wheels, and donations.
How you can help: Enjoy a comfortable volunteer office with plenty of coffee and a friendly environment. CAN volunteers assist with the reception desk, telephones, mailings and data entry. CAN volunteers also help with event planning and preparation throughout the year. KidsCAN is a program where high school kids help kids who are dealing with cancer.
Center for Cyber Safety and Education
727-339-6508
www.iamcybersafe.org
The Center for Cyber Safety and Education is a non-profit charitable trust committed to making the cyber world a safer place for everyone. We work to ensure that people in Collier County and across the globe have a positive and safe experience online through our award-winning educational programs, scholarships, and research.
Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs
artcenterbonita.org
After school and weekend classes as well as exciting camps for ages 4-18 in art, dance, theater, and music. Generous scholarships and discounts available and every applicant receives a scholarship for 10-90% of the class price.
How you can help: There is an opportunity for every interest including event helpers, ushers, education, office work and in the gift store.
Charity for Change
charityforchange.org
This program engages students in volunteer activities while teaching character development, community involvement, educational activities, and etiquette. The mission is to create and promote opportunities for charitable giving as a way of living through character education and community engagement.
How you can help: Volunteers are needed for classroom set up, attending charity visits, fundraising and community events, and script writing/stage show productions.
Children’s Advocacy Center of Collier County
caccollier.org
Its mission is to improve the lives of abused children in Collier County. CAC’s major fundraisers in 2018 both will be held at Naples Botanical Gardens: Naples City Live (March 2) and The Beach Ball (March 3). CAC also hosts the Planting of the Pinwheel Garden at Naples Pier.
How you can help: The CAC needs volunteers for office tasks and special events.
Children’s Network of Southwest Florida, LLC
855-933-KIDS (5437)
ChildNetSWFL.org
Children’s Network of SWFL’s mission is to ensure that our communities’ children are safer, have better access to local resources and are able to have a stable, loving, and secure home environment.
Collier Childcare Resources, Inc.
collierchildcare.org • niccoleh@collierchildcare.org
CCCR provides high-quality early childhood care, education, and resources to children, families, and early learning professionals in Collier County. CCCR operates four early learning programs, including VPK, for children ages 0-5 and offers tuition assistance to those that qualify. CCCR’s primary goal is to ensure that ALL children enter kindergarten “ready to learn”.
How you can help: CCCR has many volunteer opportunities including story tellers, baby rockers, tutoring, grant writing, clerical work, light maintenance work and help for their fundraising event. They also have an extensive wish list on their website that can be fulfilled by helpers of all ages. Some items include books, dress up clothes, bubbles, cameras, toys, first aid supplies, musical instruments, sunscreen, playground equipment and batteries.
Collier County Fair and Exposition, Inc.
colliercountyfair.com
The Collier County Fair and Exposition, Inc. is a private, not-for-profit organization dedicated to enriching our community by promoting education and Southwest Florida agriculture while showcasing and rewarding youth achievement. They accomplish this by producing a first-class 11-day Fair each spring with quality family entertainment and providing facilities and resources for year-round events. Over the years they have given back to a long list of other not-for profits and charities throughout our community as well as their own “Making Life Fair” fund.
How you can help: Attending events throughout the year at the Collier County Fairgrounds raises money for their many philanthropies. Those events include The Haunted Gross Walk in October, Christmas tree sales in November and December, the Big Swamp Smoke Off, Craft Beer Fest and Country Jam Festival in January, and the Collier County Fair in March.
Collier County Honor Flight
collierhonorflight.org
Collier County Honor Flight’s mission is to transport local veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit those memorials dedicated to honor their service and sacrifices. Top priority is given to the most senior or terminally ill heroes and the experience is provided free of charge. The veterans are accompanied by volunteers called Guardians who are present from the planning stages through the completion of the mission. Guardians are expected to pay for their own trip (about $400) and to treat the veteran as though he or she is their own family member throughout the process.
How you can help: In addition to being a Guardian, volunteers are needed for clerical work and answering phones. Volunteers of all ages are encouraged to be a part of the crowd that sends the veterans off on their mission and welcomes them home again that evening. The next mission is November 7, 2015. Check the website for the airport and itinerary information.
Collier County Hunger and Homeless Coalition
collierhomelesscoalition.org
The mission of this Coalition is to facilitate solutions to prevent and end hunger and homelessness by coordinating services in Collier County.
How you can help: The Hunger and Homeless Coalition is organizing the annual Point in Time Count and Outreach for people experiencing homelessness and at risk of homelessness in Collier County. Volunteers are needed on January 26, 2014, to assist with the count and the Get Help Clinics in Naples and Immokalee.
Collier County Junior Deputies League
juniordeputies.com
The Collier County Junior Deputies League works in cooperation with the Collier County Sheriffs Department to provide programs to help area youth learn drug and alcohol resistance, crime prevention, first aid, firearms safety, land stewardship, self-esteem, and respect for parents, teachers and law enforcement. Each year, Collier County fourth graders enjoy a free, supervised day at the county fair and fifth graders can enjoy an overnight campout during spring break at Camp Discovery. All kids can participate in the annual Kids Love Fishing event.
How you can help: Donations are appreciated to support these programs and enhance the development of Camp Discovery.
Collier County Public Schools Community Education
collierschools.com/ace • communityedinfo@collierschools.com
The CCPS Community Education program has served Collier and Lee County residents for over 45 years. We offer life-long learning courses in computers, foreign languages, finance, computers, writing, arts and crafts, real estate, phones, cooking, business, and career. All ages welcome.
Collier Harvest
collierharvest.org
Collier Harvest is dedicated to the elimination of hunger in Naples and surrounding areas by collecting excess and near-expiration food from area retailers and redistributing it to social service agencies.
How you can help: Volunteers are needed for food pick up and distribution. Donations also are needed.
Conservancy of Southwest Florida
conservancy.org • info@conservancy.org
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida is an environmental protection organization with a 50-year history focused on the issues impacting the water, land, wildlife, and future of Collier County and all of SWFL. The Conservancy accomplishes this mission through the combined efforts of its experts in the areas of environmental science, policy, education, and wildlife rehabilitation, and operates a world-class Nature Center and von Arx Wildlife Hospital.
How you can help: Volunteers ages 16 and older are needed to work in the Nature Center, help with wildlife rescue and transport, provide guided tours in the Discovery Center and on eco-cruises through area waterways, work in the gift shop, as trail guides, work in the animal hospital with the care of the injured animals and assist with educational programs.
Covenant Church of Naples
www.covenantnaples.com • info@covenantnaples.com
Covenant Church loves children and families. In addition to our weekly programs and activities, there is a Mom’s Morning Out Program, Monday– Thursday. Annually, there are several events for the family. These include a Fall Festival, an Easter event, and a summer camp week.
David Lawrence Center
24/7 Access: 239-455-8500
davidlawrencecenter.org • info@dlcmhc.com
The David Lawrence Center provides numerous programs for intervention and treatment related to mental health and addiction recovery. Mental illness affects 1 in 4 families. In addition, 1 in 9 will become substance abusers. Mental illness is often at the root of problems related to alcohol and other drugs. The Center’s mission is to inspire and create life-changing wellness for every individual through innovative behavioral health solutions.
How you can help: Work in Encores Resale Shop, administrative light office work or help set up and decorate for special events and fundraisers. Volunteers also can hold a book drive for the Center’s Child’s Path Preschool, donate or collect items on the Center’s wish list, for the Women’s Boutique or for holiday stocking stuffers.
Domestic Animal Services
collierpets.com
The purpose of Domestic Animal Services is to return strays to their owners and promote adoption of homeless animals to new families, and to work toward ending the community problem of pet overpopulation.
How you can help: Opportunities available for volunteers (age 15 or older) include assisting in the shelter by socializing or grooming animals, helping customers by acting as an adoption counselor and appearing on or helping behind the scenes of the “Happy Tails” TV show.
Dress for Success
swflorida.dressforsuccess.org
Economically disadvantaged women are referred to Dress for Success by agencies such as shelters and domestic violence organizations where they will receive a complete interview suit, plus shoes, accessories and toiletries plus career counseling. Once the client has landed the job, she can return to Dress for Success for up to one week’s work of work attire and career support. The majority of the women served are single mothers age 18-38 who are living below the poverty line.
How you can help: Donations of gently used clothing by appointment are needed. Volunteers also are needed and will be trained in a variety of tasks. Attend the Shop for Success event on November 3 from 5-9 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza at Bell Tower Shops to scoop up fashionable finds for as low as $5. Tickets are available on the website.
Drug Free Collier
drugfreecollier.org
The mission of Drug Free Collier is to be Collier County’s primary resource for information and tools to prevent juvenile alcohol and substance abuse. Programs include Operation Medicine Cabinet, Alcohol Vendor Training and The CORE Society, where fellow students teach alcohol, tobacco and drug-free alternatives to their peers.
How you can help: Teens can join CORE Society; donations are welcome.
The Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida
elcofswfl.org
The mission is to enhance the quality of children’s lives by providing families, early childhood educators, care givers, and community partners in Collier, Glades, Hendry, and Lee Counties with opportunities to positively impact the future.
How you can help: Volunteers can become a Literacy Buddy by corresponding through letters with a child and providing them with book three times per year. This program teaches children about correspondence, communication and appreciation of children’s literature.
The Education Foundation of Collier County /Champions for Learning
educationforcollier.org
The mission of Champions for Learning is to invest in innovative practices that enrich the environment for student learning by giving students the opportunity to gain life skills they need to succeed in an ever more competitive world, helping parents to support their children’s studies, and awarding grants to teachers and principals to develop and share best practices. This is also the organization that houses the Golden Apple Teacher Recognition Program.
How you can help: Volunteer opportunities include mentoring, assisting families with scholarship applications, coaching high school students on goals, test preparation, math and writing skills, fundraising, and office work.
Farm City BBQ, Inc. of Collier County
www.FarmCityBBQ.com
This event supports our next generation of leaders through local youth programs at Collier County 4H Club Association, the Leadership Collier Foundation, the Collier County Junior Deputy League, and Collier County Key Clubs.
First Book Collier County
firstbookcolliercounty.org
First Book Collier County is a local chapter of a national organization whose mission is to provide books (often their first) to underprivileged children to read at home with their families. Each book comes with a nameplate for the child. Since 2005, the local organization has provided 450,000 books to needy children.
How you can help:: Donations are accepted to provide new books to needy children.
The Founders Fund
239-593-0124
www.thefoundersfundinc.org
The Founders Fund, Inc., founded by the golf members of Club Pelican Bay, was founded in 1991 with the mission to provide financial assistance to young men and women from Collier County in their pursuit of post high school education and training. As of 2018, over $3.9 million dollars has been awarded to over 680 local students from Collier County (FL) high schools who have demonstrated both the need and the outstanding merit required to receive the scholarship award from The Founders Fund.
Friends of Foster Children Forever
friendsoffosterchildren.net
When children are removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect, they often are confused and take few belongings. Friends of Foster Children Forever seeks to provide financial, educational, and social support for these children.
How you can help: There are many ways volunteers of all ages can help. Be a backpack bundler by helping to assemble and fill backpacks for children removed from their homes in times of crisis. Back to School Buddies help children and their families get items that they need during the Annual Back to School Fair. Be a holiday elf and pick up and wrap holiday gifts for the children or be a birthday club member by writing and sending cards for birthdays and for special achievements. Volunteers over 21 can be field trip chaperones, event photographers or work in the Courthouse Children’s Waiting Room.
Friends of the Library
collier-friends.org • mkern@collier-friends.org
Their mission is to support the public services provided by Collier County’s 10 libraries includ- ing technology upgrades, educational programs, staff training, and providing resources to children’s reading and adult literacy programs.
How you can help: For only $30 ($40 family) you can become a Friend of the Library or attend the public board and committee meetings to discuss upcoming projects and activities.
Friends of Lovers Key
friendsofloverskey.org
The Friends of Lovers Key enhances one of Florida’s most beautiful state parks by driving the trams, removing invasive plants, repairing fences and raising money for staff training and a new visitors center.
How you can help: Volunteers can help with the many special events such as the Annual Turtle Trot 5K, the Great Outdoor Adventure Day, Valentine’s Vow Renewal and building the St. Patrick’s Day Parade float. Become a part of the park’s volunteer work force which makes the state’s dollars stretch further.
Friends of Rookery Bay
rookerybay.org
Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve provides a basis for informed stewardship of estuaries in Southwest Florida through research and education.
How you can help: Rookery Bay relies on the work of more than 300 volunteers. Opportunities for individuals and groups include gift shop, fish feeding and touch tank management, greeters, special event helpers, docents, butterfly garden assistants, and grounds and building management assistants.
Fun Time Early Childhood Academy
www.FunTimeAcademy.org • MoreInfo@FunTimeAcademy.org
Fun Time Early Childhood Academy provides safe, quality, affordable educa- tion and care for children and parents from low-income working families and to prepare the children for kindergarten, ready to read and ready to learn.
GiGi’s Playhouse Fort Myers
gigisplayhouse.org/fortmyers • fortmyers@gigisplayhouse.org
GiGi’s Playhouse is an achievement center for individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and the community. We provide therapeutic and educational programs that advance literacy, math skills, motor skills, and more; all of our programs and tutoring are free and support all ages.
Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, Inc.
www.gsgcf.org • customercare@gsgcf.org
Girl Scouts is the preeminent leadership development organization for girls. We serve over 1,000 girls and 130 adult volunteers in Collier County, offering every girl a lifetime of leadership, adventure, and success.
Girls on the Run Collier County
gotrcc.org • christine.mcconnelee@girlsontherun.org
Girls on the Run is a life-changing character development program for girls in grades 3-8. The goal of the program is to unleash confidence through accomplishment while establishing a lifetime of health and fitness.
How you can help: Coaches are needed to run the after school program as well as running buddies to motivate the girls and run alongside them in the final 5K. Donations ensure any girl can participate as well as provide appropriate footwear to those in need.
The Glitter Foundation
theglitterfoundation.org
Founded in 2013 by Naples jeweler Amanda Jaron, this young foundation already has organized several events to raise money for art therapy and art education programs for at-risk children and adolescents. Through collaborations with the community, social service agencies and schools, The Glitter Foundation is encouraging children to empower themselves through expression in art.
How you can help: Volunteers are needed to help with events and fundraisers.
Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (C’mon)
www.cmon.org • info@cmon.org
C’mon is a brain-building powerhouse fueled by STEAM! We provide an exciting, inspiring environment where children and their families can play, learn, and dream together.
Good News Club
www.cefonline.com • cefofcollier@gmail.com
Good News Club is a FREE After-school Program that takes place right on the school campus. Elementary aged children love the dynamic Bible lessons, inspiring missionary stories, songs and FUN, all while learning respect for authority, moral values, character and Biblical principles. Help us reach children in Collier County with the Good News of Jesus Christ! Go to GoodNewsinCollier.com to support Good News Clubs, apply to volunteer or register your child.
Grace Place
graceplacenaples.org
The vision of Grace Place is to break the cycle of poverty for Golden Gate families through access to education. Grace Place offers many programs, including parenting classes, Mom and Tot Literacy, Kindergarten Readiness summer programs, school-age and high school leadership academies, adult financial and literacy classes, and a Friday Food Pantry.
How you can help: Grace Place has many opportunities for volunteers including children, middle school and high school students. Experienced teachers, tutors, mentors, office and pantry help are needed.
Greater Marco Island YMCA
greatermarcoy.org
The YMCA is the nation’s leading nonprofit for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Marco Island YMCA also runs the ASPIRE program (After School Program for Inspiration, Recreation and Education) at Manatee, Lely and Parkside Elementary Schools in addition to the Marco YMCA campus.
How you can help: Current needs include preschool and playground assistance, afterschool assistance in the ASPIRE program, Y Reads volunteers for the Afterschool Literacy Program, youth sports coaches and special event volunteers. Volunteers under age 18 must have a school administrator recommendation and those over 18 must agree to fingerprints. Volunteers of all ages can help fulfill the Y’s ongoing school supply wish list.
The Greater Naples YMCA
greaternaplesYMCA.org
The YMCA ia dedicated to building healthy, confident, connected and secure children, adults, families and communities by providing resources available to all persons regardless of status or ability to pay.
Get Involved: Volunteers are always needed to coach and referee a variety of team sports, lead committees and teach classes.
Guadalupe Center
guadalupecenter.org
Guadalupe Center is a purpose-driven organization with proven results in creating endless possibilities for the students of Immokalee through educa- tion and fostering personal and academic success, which leads to economic independence.
How you can help: Donate new shoes, school supplies and backpacks to the Center’s Back to School Shoe and Supply Drive or toys to the Holiday Gift Shop. Donate food or your time to serving at Thanksgiving in the Park. Shop or donate at their resale shop located at 8100 Trail Blvd. in Naples.
Gulf Coast Charter Academy South
www.gccas.org • wstaros@gccas.org
We are a tuition free K-8 STEM Charter School that offers bus transporta- tion, clubs, sports, aftercare, and VPK in a small family atmosphere. “Giving Parents a Choice and Children a Chance”
Gulfshore Playhouse
gulfshoreplayhouse.org
Gulfshore Playhouse is committed to bringing quality professional theatre to our community while providing unique educational opportunities to diverse groups of people and students.
How you can help: Volunteers are needed as ushers, carpenters, seamstresses and for special events. Donations of household items and clothing for props and costumes also are welcome.
Habitat for Humanity of Collier County
habitatcollier.org
Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope. This organization was founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a simple, durable place to live in dignity and safety, and that decent shelter in decent communities should be a matter of conscience and action for all.
Get Involved: Teens age 16 or older are welcome to build homes on our jobsite as long as they have a parent or guardian with them. Younger kids can help by setting up refreshments for volunteers at break time on the jobsite. Habitat can provide house banks for children to collect loose change and cash to be put towards supplies for building homes for hardworking families in need.
The Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida
239-334-7007 x141
harrychapinfoodbank.org
The mission of the Harry Chapin Food Bank is “to overcome hunger in Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry and Lee counties through education and by working in a cooperative effort with affiliated agencies in the procurement and distribution of food, equitably and without discrimination.”
Get Involved: Children and their families can get involved by holding a food drive.
Teens and their families (16 and older) can get involved by distributing food at a mobile pantry.
Healthcare Network of Southwest Florida
healthcareswfl.org
Collier Health Services, Inc. (d.b.a. Healthcare Network of Southwest Florida) was founded as a nonprofit organization in 1977 by a group of community leaders to address the health issues of migrant and seasonal farm workers, rural poor, and other citizens in Collier County. Over a period of time, other medical support services such as laboratory and radiology, pharmacy, outreach and health education, social services support, transportation, and translation assistance became available. English, Spanish, French, Creole, and Kanjobal are spoken at many of Healthcare Network’s office sites.
Healthcare Network of Southwest Florida continues to seek ways to further its commitment to provide quality, professional medical and dental healthcare services to Collier County residents. In so doing, it has established 21 healthcare sites in Collier County, including the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile® Program.
How you can help: Each year the Healthcare Network of Southwest Florida Foundation hosts several events and fundraisers.
Help a Diabetic Child Foundation
www.helpadiabeticchild.org • hlpdiabeticchild@aol.com
Help A Diabetic Child Foundation is dedicated to purchasing diabetes supplies and insulin for children and college students who unable to get these life savings supplies because of financial difficulties.
Get Involved: HADCF can provide volunteer opportunities to kids and families through one of the scheduled events such as car washes, hamburger/hot dog sales, information distribution, customer appreciation night at a local fitness center, or the Golf for Diabetes event. Or, the kids and teens can develop their own ideas and plans for a fundraising event.
The Holocaust Museum and Education Center of Southwest Florida
holocaustmuseumswfl.org
The mission is to promote respect and understanding by teaching the his- tory and lessons of the Holocaust through artifacts that tell the individual stories of the Holocaust. The museum conducts educational programs and activities for students at all grade levels and public programs that highlight stories related to the Holocaust and other genocides.
How you can help: The museum needs volunteers as docents, student educators, grant writers and for office work. There are many opportunities for student interns as well.
Hope for Halloween
facebook.com/pages/Hope-for-Halloween/
Hope for Halloween collects new and gently used costumes to families in need, allowing children to make lifelong memories, develop self-worth and be an active part of their community.
Get Involved: Now that Halloween has just passed, you can donate cleaned costumes for distribution next Halloween. During the months of September and October, drop boxes are available to donate your old costumes or keep at your business, school or organization for collections.
Hope PACE
239-985.6400
www.hopepace.org • email@hopepace.org
Hope PACE, a program of all-inclusive care for the elderly, is a comprehensive healthcare program designed to meet the social, emotional and practical challenges of older adults.
Human Trafficking Awareness Partnerships, Inc.
humantraffickingawareness.org
Human trafficking is prevalent in Southwest Florida and the victims often are between the ages of 10-15. The mission of this organization is to increase public awareness in order to increase recognition of these victims who may be living among us. Programs aim to educate children so they do not become victims, and to educate businesses, such as malls, to recognize signs of trafficking.
How you can help: Donations fund the programs that empower communities to take action. By bringing awareness campaigns into your local organizations, churches and neighborhoods, you can increase the awareness and prevention of human trafficking.
Immokalee Child Care Center
immokaleechildcarecenter.orgImmokalee • info@icccnaples.org
Child Care Center is dedicated to providing exceptional educational programs and the highest quality childcare. Through its START program, the ICCC has helped thousands of underprivileged children enter Collier County Public Schools with the literacy and tools they need to thrive. Additionally, the center provides each child with three meals a day during the week and a shopping bag of food to ensure they are ready to learn and grow.
The Immokalee Foundation
immokaleefoundation.org • info@immokaleefoundation.org
The Immokalee Foundation provides a range of education programs that focus on building pathways to success through college and post-secondary preparation and support, mentoring and tutoring, opportunities for broadening experiences, and life skills development leading to economic independence.
How you can help: Become a mentor with the intention of working with a single student from seventh grade through graduation. Volunteers also can help with office work and events.
Jewish Family & Community Services of Southwest Florida
jfcsswfl.org • info@jfcsswfl.org
The mission of JFCS, a non-sectarian human service agency, is to sup- port individuals and families of all ages by providing a wide range of social services, including mental health counseling, case management, financial assistance, and crisis intervention.
Get Involved: Donate to the JCFS food pantry, help organize the pantry, perform light office work, or adopt a needy family for the holiday season and fulfill their wish list.
Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida
jaswfl.org
Junior achievement is dedicated to educating youth on business, economics and succeeding in a global economy.
How you can help: Volunteers teach fun-filled, easy to follow lessons, while bringing their own personal experiences in business, personal finance and career preparation into the classroom.
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) 239-591-2825
floridasuncoast.jdrf.org
JDRF’s mission is to raise funds for diabetes research, provide educational and informational materials, develop community-wide understanding of diabetes and its complications and provide support services to persons in the community who are interested in and affected by diabetes.
How you can help: Help raise funds for JDRF by attending events or forming a team for the Walk for the Cure.
K is for Kids Foundation
kisforkids.org
Started at Laurel Oak Elementary School by founder Karen Clawson as a way to bring more books into the library, K is for Kids is a student-led volunteer-based organization that puts kids on both the giving and receiving ends of its mission to build readers and leaders. Students create “Fun’raisers” where new books and money are donated to needy children and shared reading spaces such as school and organization libraries. One middle school held a “Book for Jeans” day where students who donated a book were allowed to deviate from dress code and wear jeans that day.
How you can help: Volunteers can host a “Bring a book, bring a friend” event or volunteer their time with the youth leadership program.
Kowiachobee Animal Preserve
kowia.com
Kowiachobee is a Native American word meaning “big screaming cat” and refers to North American mountain cougars such as the Florida panther. This facility houses 130 exotic and endangered animals as well as many farm animals with the mission of being an educational center as well as a preserve. The preserve is available for field trips or they can bring presentations to the schools.
How you can help: This all volunteer staff welcomes people of all ages, including children and teens who need volunteer hours and weekend warriors who like to help out with bigger onsite building and maintenance projects.
Laces of Love
boldsolutionsonline.com/lacesoflove2
Laces of Love Charitable Foundation, Inc., was founded by then school teacher Jeanne Nealon after learning that one of her students had to share shoes with his siblings. Laces of Love’s mission is to provide new shoes (especially sneakers) to low income and disadvantaged children in Collier and Lee Counties, and to educate the public on the needs of these children. To date, Laces of Love has donated more than 30,000 pairs of new shoes.
How you can help: Hold an event in which participants bring a pair of new shoes. A donation of $100 can provide new shoes for 4-6 children.
League of Courageous Women
(239) 431-4646
www.leagueofcourageouswomen.com
Our goal with the League is to empower the next generation of female leaders, by showing them their value and connecting them to distinguished female leaders in the community.
Legal Aid Service of Collier County
Naples Office: 239-775-4555
Immokalee Office 239-657-7442
collierlegalaid.org
Legal Aid Service of Collier County is a private, non-profit law firm that provides free civil legal services to Collier County residents who face matters of life-changing significance. Programs include direct representation for:
Domestic Violence and Family Law: Helps survivors of domestic violence obtain short- and long-term safety and stability for themselves and their children by securing protective and custody orders. Also helps clients obtain divorces, guardianships, alimony awards, parenting plans, and child support orders.
Legal Aid for Collier Kids: Staff attorneys represent children in Dependency court who have been abused, neglected, and/or abandoned. Representation of children in Dependency court is done by court-appointment only.
Women & Girls in Need Project: Provides services aimed to address the economic issues and challenges facing low-income senior women, women leading households by themselves with minor children, and women and girls with disabilities.
Public Benefits for the Elderly, Veterans, and the Disabled: Provides assistance to the elderly, veterans, the disabled, and others in need who are experiencing problems related to Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), VA Benefits, Unemployment Compensation, Food Stamps, and other public benefits to which individuals are lawfully entitled. The Senior Citizen Unit also provides legal advice and representation to Collier County residents who are 60 years of age or older for all general, civil legal matters.
Immigration Assistance: Assists immigrant victims of domestic violence, victims of human trafficking, and victims of other violent crimes in obtaining lawful immigration status. They also represent abused, abandoned, or neglected immigrant children in their applications for lawful permanent residence. Additionally, their attorneys fight for clients with meritorious defenses such as adjustment, cancellation, and political asylum, in removal proceedings. They also represent Temporary Protected Status applicants, who are temporarily unable to safely return to their home country due to dangerous or unsafe conditions.
Foreclosure Defense: Provides legal assistance to qualifying individuals who are in or near foreclosure. Our services include: educating homeowners about the judicial foreclosure process, representing and assisting homeowners in mediation sessions, providing information on alternatives to foreclosure, identifying fraudulent documentation and other widespread illegal foreclosure practices, and helping homeowners gain crucial time needed to work toward a solution.
Tax Assistance: Assists individuals with a federal income tax controversy up to $50,000. Their attorneys assist with issues such as: Dis-allowance of tax credit; audit assistance; collection issues, including lien and levy; appeals; representation in federal tax court; assistance in identity theft cases; preparation of amended returns to resolve controversies; and other important issues.
How you can help: Current law students and recent graduates can help prepare materials for cases and information clinics. College and high school students can help do office work and other volunteers can help manage fundraisers, clinics and events. Anyone can help with their Annual Adopt a Family program at the holidays by shopping for and transporting gifts.
Lighthouse of Collier, Inc.
lighthouseofcollier.org • info@lighthouseofcollier.org
Lighthouse of Collier promotes the development, implementation, and ongoing evaluation of programs and services to foster independence and enhance the quality of life for the blind and visually impaired children and adults.
Get Involved: Need volunteers for events, office work and fundraising.
Literacy Volunteers of Collier County
collierliteracy.org • info@collierliteracy.org
Literacy Volunteers of Collier County teaches English as a second language to adults and children to enable them to improve their lives and be productive members of society. We serve Collier County and rely on volunteer tutors to teach English.
How you can help: Volunteers are trained as tutors; opportunities also are available for office work, marketing, grant writing, fundraising and library management.
Make-A-Wish Southern Florida
sflwish.org
Every 37 minutes, Make-A-Wish America grants a child battling a life-threatening illness their wish. The mission of the organization is to create give hope, strength and joy to these children by granting a wish.
How you can help: The Kids for Wish Kids® Tool Kit gives kids a step-by-step program to create a fundraiser with the help of an adult. Older students can join a local Youth Leadership Committee to plan and carry out fundraising projects.
Meals of Hope
mealsofhope.org • info@mealsofhope.org
Meals of Hope food packages, which are distributed by its accredited food bank partners, offer more than nutrition. To children who are dealing with the stress and insecurity of not knowing how or when they will receive their next meal, a comforting bowl of macaroni and cheese or beans and rice (both fortified with soy protein and 21 vitamins and minerals), provides a bit of hope to carry them through another day. All meals that are packed by sponsors and volunteers are provided to recipients free of charge through well-established food banks throughout the United States.
How you can help: Meals of Hope gives thousands of volunteer-minded individuals a way to make a positive impact by bringing food packing events to their local churches, schools, associations and other clubs and service organizations.
Miracle Limbs-Courage in Motion
miraclelimbs.org
This organization provides support to amputees so that they may more easily navigate the physical, psychological and financial hurdles that accompany the experience of losing a limb.
How you can help: Donate or raise money to help support amputees with prosthetics, surgeries and counseling.
Moorings Presbyterian Preschool
239-649-1811
The Moorings Preschool has served Collier County families for more than 30 years. Children grow with us through exploration, discovery and social interaction.
Multiple Sclerosis Center of Southwest Florida
mscenterswfl.org
The mission of the Multiple Sclerosis Center is to improve life for those in Southwest Florida who are affected by Multiple Sclerosis by offering specialized therapies not typically covered by insurance and support groups.
How you can help: Area businesses can donate their services or individual volunteers can offer their skills at various levels of the organization.
Music for Minors Foundation
music4minor.org
Music4minors partners with music teachers in Collier and Lee Counties to identify music students who meet their criteria for receiving a free instrument.
How you can help: In addition to monetary donations, Music4Minors accepts donations of new and used musical instruments. Attend events such as the Bonita Blues Festival in March, which supports the Music4Minors Foundation.
Naples Art
naplesart.org • info@NaplesArt.org
The Naples Art is a respected and award-winning non-profit organization that has served and enriched the community by championing education, interest, and involvement in the visual arts in Southwest Florida since its inception in 1954. A working art center, Naples Art creates unique opportunities for local artists and guests with a full calendar of events each season.
How you can help: Volunteers are needed for the gift shop, hospitality, special events and art festivals.
Naples Botanical Garden
naplesgarden.org • info@naplesgarden.org
The mission of the Garden is to connect people and plants through education, conservation and science. The Garden creates a paradise that combines delightfully cultivated tropical gardens with beautifully restored habitats.
How you can help: Volunteers age 12-15 must be accompanied by an adult. Current needs include horticulture assistance (weeding, raking, watering and moving plant material), arts and crafts assistance, butterfly house assistance, summer camp mentors and help with mailings.
Naples Cat Alliance
naplescatalliance.org
This volunteer organization includes a shelter for rescue and adoptions, Trap, Neuter and Release (TNR) program for feral cat colonies, low-cost spay and neuter programs and a thrift store to support its mission and to reduce euthanasia.
How you can help: Volunteers and donations are vital to care for the kittens and cats at the shelter, as well as the feral colonies in the TNR program.
The Naples Concert Band
239-270-1221
Now celebrating its 47th season, the Naples Concert Band is a non-profit organization dedicated to entertaining the community with enriching Sunday concerts in the park each month during season in Cambier Park. All performances are free and open to the public, with donations used to provide scholarships to student band members.
Naples Equestrian Challenge
naplesequestrianchallenge.org
Naples Equestrian Challenge improves the lives of children and adults with special needs through therapeutic riding and other equine-related programs. For individuals with impaired mobility, horseback riding gently and rhythmically moves their bodies in a three-dimensional motion, simulating the natural walking gait of humans. In addition to the physical benefits of riding a horse, our lessons are designed to help riders mentally focus to practice using their concentration in ways that very often do not come naturally to them. Horseback riding builds self-esteem, self-confidence and self-control.
How you can help: Volunteers attend a New Volunteer Orientation and complete a Volunteer Application. Volunteers are required to attend a training session prior to volunteering for the program. Other opportunities such as fundraising and grounds maintenance are available.
Naples Free Net
naples.net
Internet access is vital to finding and maintaining employment and for education. Naples Free Net is an all-volunteer nonprofit community network, providing free dial-up and low-cost DSL broadband access to needy residents and business/nonprofits of Collier and Lee County.
How you can help: Volunteers are needed to be a part of the support team for subscribers.
Naples International Film Festival
naplesfilmfest.com/index.html
Naples International Film Festival’s mission is to celebrate independent film and filmmakers in an intimate festival setting that enhances the cultural and artistic life of our community. For one weekend every November, the community can have the unique opportunity of seeing independent films before they are picked up for release, and chatting with the filmmakers themselves at the screening.
How you can help: NIFF uses volunteers year-round for projects and over the four-day festival to ensure that screenings go smoothly.
Naples Community Orchestra
https://naplescommunityorchestra.org
Naples Community Orchestra enhances our lives with outstanding classical and popular music performances at an affordable cost. We strive to provide exciting opportunities for students and accomplished local musicians to learn from and perform with professionals.
How you can help: Donations can be directed to the organization in general or designated for a scholarship of a chosen student. Attending one of our many seasonal concerts also supports this organization. We seek volunteers in several positions. All volunteers receive two complimentary tickets to each concert!
Volunteers are needed in the following areas:
– Serve as an usher at NCO concerts.
– Help with concert stage setup and break down.
– Planning of events including venue research, sending invitations, setup and staffing reception tables, printing and distributing name tags.
– Create social media content including posts and pictures about NCO concerts and announcements.
– Distribute NCO brochures to local businesses.
– Process ads for concert playbills.
– Identify grant opportunities and grant writing.
– Write program notes for concert playbills.
– Assist the music librarian with marking music with bowing, copying and distributing music to NCO musicians and updating the music inventory database.
– Send thank you letters to donors.
To learn more about volunteer opportunities with the Naples Community Orchestra, visit naplescommunityorchestra.org/volunteer or contact Anne Wilson at annewilson574@gmail.com.
Naples Pathways Coalition (NPC)
naplespathways.org
The NPC works with local and county elected officials and staff on planning and implementing safe pathways for adults and children on which to walk, run, bike, and use non-motorized transportation.
How you can help:: Volunteers are needed for advocacy, events and fundraising. Attend the Fit & Fuel Iron Joe Turkey Ride on Nov. 27 or the Bike Brunch & Family Festival on March 5, 2017.
The Naples Players and KidzAct
naplesplayers.org • info@naplesplayers.org
The mission of The Naples Players is to create and perform affordable, high quality amateur theatre; to encourage participation in and appreciation of theatre; and to provide educational and enrichment opportunities and outreach programs for all residents and visitors.
How you can help: There are more than 40 different types of volunteer jobs with the Naples Players, including actors, crew, costume workers, hairstylists, musicians, office assistants and ushers. Previous theatrical training is not required.
Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens
napleszoo.org
Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens is a nonprofit organization focused on conservation education. Our mission is to inspire people of all ages to respect, value and help conserve wildlife and our natural world. Collier County residents get in free the first Saturday of every month, and also get discounts on memberships.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
namicollier.org
According to the NAMI website, one in four families are affected by severe and persistent mental illness. Through education, support and advocacy, NAMI hopes to help these people recover and thrive in their community. Programs include crisis training for law enforcement and other agencies, screenings, family education, prescription assistance, and support groups.
How you can help: Volunteers help in the drop-in center, as speakers at events and in the food pantry and clothing donation area.
NCH Safe & Healthy Children’s Coalition of Collier County
SafeHealthyChildren.org • Info@Safehealthychildren.org
The Coalition facilitates and implements programs to combat childhood obesity, prevent childhood drowning and reduce Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Through its swim lessons and wellness programs, the Coalition aims at keeping Collier County children safe.
How you can help: We are always looking for volunteers who want to make a difference in our community. Because our risk areas are so diversified, everyone interested would be able to find something that matches their interests.
Neighborhood Health Clinic
neighborhoodhealthclinic.org
The Neighborhood Health Clinic was created by Dr. Bill and Nancy Laschied as a way for the working poor to receive quality medical care. Patients are employed but their family income must be at or below 200% of the poverty level and ineligible for government assistance programs or uninsured to be eligible for care. A nominal fee ($5-$30) is charged for services.
How you can help: Volunteers include physicians, nurses and other medical workers as well as non-medical volunteers who help with office work, inventory, intake, courier services and fundraising.
New Horizons of Southwest Florida
newhorizonsofswfl.org
New Horizons currently reaches nearly 400 at-risk children and teens at seven locations in Naples, Bonita Springs, Estero and South Fort Myers; providing over 80,000 hours of after school tutoring and mentoring annually at no cost to their families.
How you can help: Tutors and mentors are needed on weekday afternoons, help teach a craft or a skill such as sewing on Friday afternoons, share career opportunities with teens or serve on a fundraising committee.
Northside Naples Kiwanis
NorthsideNaplesKiwanis.com • info@northsidenapleskiwanis.com
Kiwanis and its family of clubs (Circle K International, Key Club, Builders Club, K-Kids, and Aktion Club) dedicate over 18 million hours and raise over $100 million annually to strengthen communities and serve children.
Organization Survive & Thrive
wendycampbellyoga.com • wendy@survivethriveyoga.org
Survive & Thrive’s mission is to empower those affected by cancer with accessible yoga and mindfulness techniques.
Our Mother’s Home of Southwest Florida, Inc.
ourmothershome.com
The mission of Our Mother’s Home is to transition teen mothers and their children from foster care and human trafficking to stable, happy and productive lives by providing a safe and nurturing home, education, parenting support, and physical, mental and spiritual care. The large home houses eight teen mothers and their children as long as they stay in school or have a job.
How you can help: Volunteer opportunities include babysitting, tutoring, transportation, teaching life skills and mentoring.
PACE Center for Girls, Collier at Immokalee
pacecenter.org/collier
PACE provides girls and young women an opportunity for a better future through education, counseling, training and advocacy. PACE Center for Girls, Inc., is a nationally recognized and research-based model that features a balanced emphasis on academics and social services with a focus on the future for middle and high-school aged girls and young women. More than 50 girls, ages 12 to 18, attend the Collier County day program in Immokalee, and face a variety of challenges such as domestic violence, sexual abuse, academic underachievement, substance abuse, trauma, death of a parent and/or family history of incarceration.
How you can help: Families and children can get involved by attending events such as Love that Dress, annual food and gift drives at the holidays, sponsoring a monthly birthday bash held for the girls whose special day falls in that month (donate money or supplies) and yard work. The cafeteria needs repainting: donations of time, paint or supplies are appreciated, and all ages are welcome.
PAWS Assistance Dogs
pawsassistancedogs.org
PAWS Assistance Dogs promotes independence for combat wounded veterans and children with life-changing disabilities through partnerships with skilled assistance dogs. The PAWS organization also coordinates four community outreach programs:
CLEPP (Children’s Literacy and Education PAWS Program): promotes character education, language development, and literacy.
SOAR (Special Operations and Recovery): The PAWS Veteran Hiring Initiative helps veterans assimilate back to civilian life.
PACT (PAWS Assistance Crisis Team): brings service dogs to crisis centers such as The David Lawrence Center, Hazelden Addiction Treatment Center, and Lorenzo Walker Institute’s New Beginnings School.
POWER (PAWS Orients Women Exposed to Risk): interaction with the dogs lowers stress and anxiety through caring for the dogs.
How you can help: Volunteers are needed for fundraising and events, help with basic puppy training, and foster homes for puppy cadets until they are old enough to begin their intense training.
Project Help, Inc.
239-649-1404 Office • 239-262-7227 Hotline (24/7)
ProjectHelpNaples.org
Project HELP works with dignity and compassion to ease the pain of those affected by rape, violence, crime or loss of a loved one. Not only do they staff a crisis phone line 24 hours a day and seven days per week, they serve as advocates in court and work with the Naples Police Department to deliver tragic news and provide immediate support.
How you can help: We work with many volunteers. To work the 24/7 Hotline, you must be at least 18 year old and complete 40 hours training. Ages 14 and older can do light office work. Children and teens can help with events like carwashes or the Annual Walk.
Project Outreach
ProjectOutreachNaples.com
Angie Meister, projectoutreach@comcast.net
Project Outreach organizes volunteer activities in the community, assists other organizations with their events and helps local hurting families in need. The group’s goal is to teach local youth the selflessness of serving.
How you can help: Join one of Project Outreach’s many projects such as serving dinner at St. Matthew’s House, hosting a party at Youth Haven or collecting for a food and clothing drive for the Immokalee House.
Providence Compassion Foundation
ProvidenceEquestrianCenter.com • Godscreatures@ProvidenceEquestrianCenter.com
PCF’s role is to help provide funding for the rescue and care of horses, farm, and companion animals as well as funding for need- and merit-based equestrian scholarships.
Providence House
providencehousenaples.org
Providence House is a Catholic faith-based program for vulnerable women with young children in the Collier County area who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The two-year self-sufficiency program offers moms the opportunity to make important long-term changes so they can realize their goals for economic independence.
How you can help: Volunteer for child care while moms are in school or life skills programs, mentoring, facility maintenance, fundraising, or wish list collection.
The Revolutionary Learning Center
revolutionarylearningcenter.com
The Revolutionary Learning Center helps families in Collier County by providing a safe environment (bully-free zone) for students to receive social skills training, learning how to create happiness in their lives, learn stress management techniques, and executive functioning skills training while receiving tutoring and academic support. We are a wrap-around program for homeschool and virtual students.
Ricky King Children’s Fund
RickyKingFund.org
The Ricky King Children’s Fund enriches the lives of children with disabilities in Southwest Florida by providing essential medical equipment (walkers, hospital beds and van conversions) and services not covered by insurance or Medicaid in times of need.
How you can help: Raise money to donate to the fund.
Royal Palm Academy
royalpalmacademy.com • somalley@royalpalmacademy.com
RPA is the only private, independent Catholic school in Collier County. We teach the mind, educate the heart, and form the character of tomorrow’s leaders from Pre-K through 8th grade.
Rushman-Micah Angel Foundation
rmaf-fl.org
The mission of the Rushman-Micah Angel Foundation is to serve as a family and community resource center to assist and advocate for children, youth and adults who have disabilities and socio-economic disadvantages. The organization strives to help individuals and their families overcome barriers to work, play and creative opportunities so that individuals may lead independent, self-sustainable lives.
How you can help: Volunteers are needed for the foundation’s inclusive therapeutic sports camps, multi-media art projects and music festival that will occur periodically throughout the year. High school students, adults and seniors are needed to help at the events, in addition to the foundation’s need for event sponsors and donors.
Saint Ann School
239-262-4110
www.stann.net
Since 1956, Saint Ann School has welcomed families of all backgrounds and means seeking a quality faith-based educational experience for their children. As one of the oldest schools in Collier County, we differentiate from other schools by our state-of-the art campus and our dedication to high standards in all that we do.
Saint Ann Latino Contemporary Art Auction
www.SALCAA.org • chair@salcaa.org
In collaboration with the Cultural and Performing Arts Center (CAPA) and in community partnership with Artis-Naples, SALCAA celebrates Latin American heritage by exhibiting and auctioning a wide array of insightful artworks by established Latino visual artists. This high quality artistic and cultural event is accompanied by live music and delicious Latin American cuisine.
St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School
239-455-2262
Fully accredited by the Florida Catholic Conference, St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School provides a quality education to students in PreK-3 through 8th grade. Spiritual, intellectual, social, cultural, physical and emotional support are offered in a loving atmosphere that embraces time honored Catholic traditions.
St. Matthew’s House
stmatthewshouse.org
St. Matthew’s House provides housing for the homeless, food for the needy and structured prevention and recovery programs.
How you can help: St. Matthew’s relies on volunteers for counter and stock help at their thrift stores, to serve holiday community meals on Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter as well as throughout the year, administrative support, to pack groceries and organize food pantry and to hold fundraising events and donation drives for their wish list.
Salt Warriors
saltwarriors.org
Founded in 2014, Salt Warriors is a nonprofit organization that organizes fitness challenges and events to benefit five local charities: Caleb’s Crusade, The Kira Foundation, GiGi’s Playhouse, The Passion Foundation and Adonis Autism.
How you can help: Contact Salt Warriors to learn more about each of these charities and how to help.
The Salvation Army
salvationarmyflorida.org/naples
The Salvation Army is the world’s largest organization that provides aid to the homeless, the hungry and the hurting. The Army also provides youth programs, religious training and disaster services.
How you can help: The Naples canteen stands in a state of readiness to feed 500 people three meals within two hours of a disaster call. Volunteers are needed for programs including Seniors Club, Bikes for Work, Backpacks for School, and Youth Groups. The Child Care Center needs supplies, games and equipment for children ages one to five. Volunteers in the After School Program are needed for one hour between 3:00 p.m. and 6 p.m. one or two days per week to read with a child or help with homework. Donate supplies, games and equipment for students ages 5-12. Your help is very important during November and December to help collect, sort, stack and pack bags for holiday distribution to needy families.
Samantha’s Purse a.k.a. Voice for Cerebral Palsy
voicesforcerebralpalsy.com
Cerebral palsy is the most common motor disability in children. It is the second most common disability in children, after autism. Cerebral palsy currently affects roughly 800,000 children, adolescents and adults in the United States. Samantha’s Purpose was started in Miami by Jose “Manny” and Michelle Garcia. The organization is inspired by their daughter’s life with cerebral palsy. They saw firsthand that information about cerebral palsy was not easily accessible. They reached out to their friends and shared their idea to start a charity that would raise cerebral palsy awareness and provide guidance and financial support to those with cerebral palsy. Over the years, this group of parent volunteers have financially provided support to many children with cerebral palsy (and various other diagnosis) with the cost of therapy services and special needs equipment. The organization has also provided financial support to different organizations that provide education, summer camp programs or therapy services to children with cerebral palsy.
How you can help: Attend Samantha’s Purpose’s bowling fundraiser “Pins for a Purpose” to support all-inclusive summer camps for children with special needs on Jan. 28 at Bowland Entertainment Center.
Seacrest Country Day School
seacrest.org • communications@seacrest.org
Seacrest Country Day School is a preschool through Grade 12 independent school in Naples committed to fueling intellectual engagement, teaching ownership of the educational experience, cultivating quality of character, and inspiring students to lead lives of significance.
The Shelter for Abused Women & Children
Confidential 24-hour crisis line: 239-775-1101
naplesshelter.org
The Shelter’s mission is to lead the community to prevent, protect and prevail over domestic violence through advocacy, empowerment and social change. More than just an emergency safe haven, the Shelter provides education, counseling, legal aid, transitional housing, support groups and healing arts such as yoga, creative writing and art.
How you can help: Volunteers are The Shelter’s foundation, providing invaluable support in our offices and throughout Collier County. Opportunities include: Youth Advisory Council that is made up of teens and preteens from across Collier County working to change the knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and behaviors of teens, reducing teen dating violence in our community. Holiday giving opportunities include: adopting a family, hosting a spirit of giving tree, making donations to the shelter’s wish list, recycling cell phones or volunteering in Options Thrift Shoppe (age 16 and older.)
Shy Wolf Sanctuary Education and Experience Center, Inc.
shywolfsanctuary.com/index.html
Shy Wolf Sanctuary is a refuge for cougars, wolves and wolf-dogs, several exotic species of fox, prairie dogs, Florida gopher tortoises, sugar gliders, a panther and a North American bobcat. This award-winning sanctuary is one of the few places permitted to care for the threatened Florida gopher tortoise. Founder Nancy Smith and her husband Bill have been offering sanctuary and a home to exotic, stray and injured animals for more than 20 years, becoming a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization in 2001 and credentialed with multiple licenses required to care for these animals.
How you can help: Donations are needed to help develop the new 20-acre habitat, a hurricane shelter, vet clinic, welcome center and classrooms. Volunteers can help care for the animals, prepare their meals and clean enclosures.
Special Olympics of Southwest Florida
specialolympicsflorida.org/collier
The Special Olympics provides year-round sports training in 11 sports for more than 400 hundred Collier County children and adults living with disabilities.
How you can help: volunteer opportunities range from day of special event help, fundraising, administrative help to coaching. Supporters also can purchase a specialty license plate for their car for $15 over regular registration fees.
SWFL Foster & Adoptive Parent Association, Inc.
swflapa.org/swfl-fapa • swflfapa@embarqmail.com
The SWFL Foster & Adoptive Parent Association advocates for the needs of foster/adoptive children and caregivers through outreach, mentoring and support.
How you can help: Volunteers are needed at the group’s 2nd Annual Princess Day event in November to help put on a special day for princesses by collecting donations, helping decorate and set up the day before the event, dress up, and dance with the girls in the ballroom.
Surfers for Autism, Inc.
surfersforautism.org
The Surfers for Autism mission is to unlock the potential of people with developmental delays and support advocacy for autism issues and scientific research. “Surfers” and their families are treated like rock stars and enjoy a day filled with a range of activities including stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, live music, face-painting, games, fire engine tours and much more. A catered lunch is also provided, all at no cost to registered participants, their families and volunteers. This is a very special day where children with developmental delays interact with typical peers and wow families with their capabilities.
How you can help: You do not need to know how to surf to be able to volunteer. The majority of volunteers needed will be in the water but inexperienced volunteers will be at the water line or may assume duties in the activity tent or food tent. Minimum age to volunteer is 10 years old. Any volunteers under the age of 18 are required to have their waiver signed and notarized prior to the event.
Together Rising
togetherrising.org
Naples blogger and author Glennon Doyle Melton founded this nonprofit on the theory that helping someone during their season of need also helps the giver. Together Rising has matched over 2400 families with donor families through their Holiday Hands Giving program and donated over $1 million in assistance to struggling families.
How you can help: During a Love Flash Mob, the nonprofit calls for donations that are limited to $25 per donor for a limited amount of time. Sign up to sponsor a family during the holidays and you will be matched to a family whose needs you can meet.
United Arts Council of Collier County
uacollier.com
This organization provides arts education to at-risk students and low-income adults; advocates for more art education in the schools, more funding for the arts and art in public places. Programs include a Summer Arts Camp in Immokalee and Miracle Plus afterschool programs in low-income elementary schools.
How you can help: Volunteers are needed for special events and as teaching assistants in afterschool arts programs.
Valerie’s House
valerieshouseswfl.org • info@valerieshouseswfl.org
Valerie’s House programs are designed to give children and families a safe place to share, grieve, and grow. Children, ages three to 17, will get to know other children like them, heal together, and learn loss doesn’t have to limit their dreams. Valerie’s House also supports parents and caregivers as they cope with the loss of a spouse or child. Valerie’s House offers grief presentations, education, and support to the faculty and staff of elementary, middle, and high schools.
How you can help: volunteers can serve as group facilitators, group buddies, dinner helpers (set-up, cooking and clean-up), and house helpers (organizing toys and arts and crafts, and office help).
VITAS Healthcare Paw Pals Pet Therapy
vitas.com/hospice-care-services/paw-pals-pet-therapy
Hospice pet volunteers visit patients in nursing homes, assisted living communities and private homes. They offer a welcome distraction from illness and help people feel a little less lonely.
How you can help: VITAS trains friendly, well-behaved pets to be Paw Pals. A registered VITAS Paw Pals volunteer, always accompanied by its human companion, knows how to visit patients near the end of life and is at ease in medical and residential facilities as well as private homes.
The Village School of Naples
239-593-7686
https://www.villageschoolnaples.org/
The Village School of Naples is an infant through 12th grade college preparatory school. Students at TVS are challenged with rigorous academics and guided by Christian values to ensure they know who they are, and where they are going.
Volunteer Services for Animals
vsarescue.org
Volunteer Services for Animals (VSA) helps the animals of Collier County through free and low cost pet vaccination and spay/neuter clinics, a feral TNR program, distribution of pet food and supplies to those pet owners in need. VSA also rescues, fosters and finds forever homes for unwanted animals.
How you can help: Contact VSA to find out how to foster animals or donate supplies; visit the cats and dogs ready to be adopted at the Naples Petsmart on Saturdays and Sundays.
Wellfit Girls Program SWFL, Inc.
wellfitgirls.org • info@wellfitgirls.org
The mission of Wellfit Girls is to inspire, challenge, and empower teen girls to climb high in all areas of life through transformational leadership programs. The curriculum challenges teen girls to step out of their comfort zone and into confident and empowered leaders.
WGCU Public Media, a Member-Supported Service of Florida Gulf Coast University
memberservices@wgcu.org
wgcu.org
WGCU Public Media has served Southwest Florida for 35 years seeking to inspire, inform, educate, engage and entertain through its 5 multi-cast television channels, digital media and 2 radio bands. WGCU-TV is our community’s sole source of PBS programming and its 5 streams include PBS HD, World, Create, Encore, a 24/7 PBS Kids channel, as well as The Florida Channel. WGCU-FM provides around-the-clock news and information on 90.1 FM in Naples (and Fort Myers) and WMKO 97.1 FM in Marco Island, as well as classical music service on WGCU 90.1-2 HD2 and WMKO 97.1 HD2. Over 500,000 viewers and 100,000 listeners each month benefit from WGCU’s programs in the 5-county area (Media Audit) while www.wgcu.org receives 112,000 monthly views.
The Women’s Network of Collier County
wnocc.org • vp@wnocc.org
The WNOCC empowers women via networking, education, seminars, and raising scholarship funds for single women and mothers.
Wounded Warriors of South Florida
wwofsf.org
The mission of the Wounded Warriors of South Florida is to provide temporary, immediate financial assistance to service connected disabled veterans from Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation New Dawn. In addition to helping these veterans with their bills, the Wounded Warriors of South Florida also refers them to partnering organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and Genesis Assistance Dogs for further support.
How you can help: Contact the WWSF in order to learn of volunteer opportunities.
Xcel2fitness SWFL
Xcel2fitness.com/swflorida • melissa@xcel2fitness.com
Xcel2Fitness uses the fundamentals of fitness to develop the character boys need to chase their dreams.
YMCAs of Greater Naples, Marco Island, and Bonita Springs
Greater Naples YMCA • 239-597-3148 • greaternaplesYMCA.org
Marco Island YMCA • 239-394-3144 • greatermarcoy.org
Bonita Springs YMCA • 239-221-7560 • swflymca.org
The YMCAs are dedicated to building healthy, confident, connected, and secure children, adults, families, and communities by providing resources available to all persons regardless of status or ability to pay.
Youth Haven
youthhaven.net • info@youthhaven.net
Youth Haven is Southwest Florida’s residential emergency shelter for boys and girls ages 6-16 who have been removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect or abandonment. Children coming to Youth Haven are severely traumatized and in crisis. They have experienced abuse and/or hunger. Youth Haven is an immediate lifeline of safety, love and compassion for innocent children in crisis and first step in a long journey back to trust, confidence and joy. Youth Haven also provides an array of home and community-based parenting education, child and substance abuse prevention programs, financial crisis support and onsite and community based emotional and psychological counseling.
How you can help: One of the most important ways kids and families can help is during the holidays and back-to-school season. Many of these children have never had a new backpack or experienced the excitement of opening presents. Kids and families can send holiday cards, purchase gifts for our shelter children, or organize a drive, such as toy drive or food drive, to name a few.
Youth Leadership Collier
napleschamber.org/youth-leadership.html
The mission of Youth Leadership Collier is to develop ethical leaders com- mitted to active community involvement. YLC empowers students to be- come effective leaders through hands on experiences and field work with key organizations, while encouraging returning or staying in Collier County to begin careers and community leadership.
45 MPH Couch Potato Greyhound Rescue
45mphcouchpotato.com
Since being founded in 2014, the mission of this group is to show the puplic what wonderful pets retired greyhounds are, and to provide outreach programs in the community to show that greyhounds are loving therapy dogs that give back to our community. How you can help: The best way to help is by fostering a dog, making a donation, or volunterring your time to provide transportation and marketing assistance.