Guadalupe Center has received a $15,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Collier County to continue providing virtual learning opportunities for more than 1,400 students in Immokalee.
Guadalupe Center temporarily closed its physical campuses in March to thwart the spread of COVID-19, immediately launching a comprehensive virtual program for students in its Early Childhood Education, After-school Tutoring & Summer Enrichment and Tutor Corps programs.
The Community Foundation grant will help cover salaries of teachers and staff, provide tuition assistance for families, and purchase and upgrade technology used to deliver remote instruction.
“Across the country, economically disadvantaged students are having the most difficulty adjusting to virtual education because of technology, language and educational barriers,” said Guadalupe Center President Dawn Montecalvo. “By offering a robust virtual program, and even providing computers to some families, we are ensuring that the temporary closure of traditional learning environments isn’t disproportionately impacting the students of Immokalee. We’re thankful that the Community Foundation recognizes the importance of leveling the playing field so students don’t fall behind academically during this challenging period in their lives.”
Guadalupe Center’s teachers have been holding class discussions and leading lessons over Zoom, as well as offering workshops that demonstrate how parents can take a more active role in their children’s education. Students in the college-preparatory Tutor Corps program have participated in weekly online workshops covering essay writing, the college application program, test prep and more.
The Community Foundation of Collier County awards annual grants through a competitive application and review process through its Changing Needs Fund. The Community Foundation is a tax-exempt, public, charitable organization, established in 1985 to increase and focus private philanthropy in the area. Today, the Community Foundation manages more than 750 funds, serves hundreds of nonprofits, holds $214 million in assets and has distributed more than $183 million in grants to nonprofit organizations and community programs.
