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Building Prosperity
a cycle of
by Dawn Montecalvo
For more than 40 years, community support has transformed the lives of
countless students at Guadalupe Center. The power of generosity is
evident in students like Wikaila, 7, who overcame her shyness and became a
class leader with impressive academic progress this year; Elizabeth, a high
school senior, is pursuing a nursing career at Florida State University this fall;
and Alex Guzman, a 2015 Tutor Corps alumnus, now a guidance counselor in
Texas, giving back to his community and propelling the mission forward.
These stories are united by a common thread--the strength and purpose they
found through the Guadalupe Center programs. Alex reflects,
“Guadalupe Center didn’t just open doors for me—it built a foundation
for my family and community to thrive. It exemplifies the
power of education to transform lives and embodies
Immokalee’s spirit of hope, resilience,
and opportunity.”
This is just a glimpse of the many success
stories we’ve witnessed. To date, more
than 280 Tutor Corps alumni have earned
college degrees and become doctors,
teachers, business owners, and leaders.
Your support today creates tomorrow’s
possibilities.
Tutor Corps graduates are 55% more likely to earn a college degree than their
peers, and nearly all earn more than their parents did at their age. Through
programs like Early Childhood Education, After-school Tutoring and Summer
Enrichment, and Tutor Corps, Guadalupe Center empowers more than 2,000
students annually—creating a ripple effect of opportunity beyond Immokalee.
Your investment in our students and programs is a commitment to resilience,
empowerment, and leadership. These values are the cornerstone of a thriving
community, ensuring every student has the opportunity to create their own
path to success. When lives are elevated by purpose, entire communities
are uplifted.
Join us! 24 Hours to Elevate the Dream March 27-28
Join us for “24 Hours to Elevate the Dream,” a special giving
event from noon on March 27 to noon on March 28, dedicated
to transforming students' futures. Your donation, whether made
online or by mail, provides life-changing opportunities, empowering
students to dream bigger and achieve more. Every gift makes a
difference, and your support today helps shape their tomorrow.
About the Author
Dawn Montecalvo is President and CEO of
Be part of this powerful day of giving. Guadalupe Center. To learn more, please visit
Thank you for investing in their dreams! GuadalupeCenter.org or call 239-657-7711.
Life in Naples | March 2025 47
