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Teach . Empower Transform
Scan here to make
a difference today
509 Hope Circle, Immokalee, FL 34142 • 239.657.7711 • www.GuadalupeCenter.org •
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by Dawn Montecalvo
At Guadalupe Center, every child’s potential matters - and
every moment counts. Just ask Adriana Antonio López, who
first came to us as a young mother attending Smart Start
classes, learning how reading, circle time, and play could
shape her child’s future. Inspired by that experience, Adriana
pursued a career in early childhood education.
Today, she’s an award-winning teacher in our Butterfly
classroom, working toward her bachelor’s degree, and was
recently named Florida’s Infant and Toddler Educator of the
Year by the Florida Association for the Education of Young
Children (FLAEYC). All three of her daughters are thriving
through our programs, proving how strong beginnings truly
lead to extraordinary futures.
This past year, Guadalupe Center received a
transformational unrestricted gift from philanthropist and
entrepreneur Tom Golisano. His extraordinary generosity
allowed us to increase wages for all 100+ Early Childhood
Educators—reducing financial stress, improving retention,
and strengthening the consistency children need in their most
critical years. His gift also expanded our Middle and High
School Tutor Corps, ensuring students have the mentorship
and resources to pursue college and career success.
We are deeply grateful to Mr. Golisano for believing in our
mission. By investing in educators and students, he is
helping break the cycle of poverty in Immokalee and building
a stronger, more vibrant community for generations to come.
“I stay rooted in my purpose by honoring each child’s
story, celebrating small moments of growth, and reflecting
on how our work transforms lives from the very beginning.
Every giggle, every new word, every breakthrough reminds
me why I’m here.”
— Adriana Antonio López
Adriana’s journey reminds us that when teachers shine,
students thrive - and entire communities are lifted. At
Guadalupe Center, we walk with students as far as they want
to go, but we cannot do it alone. Join us today by making a
gift and help open doors to brighter futures.
About the Author
Dawn Montecalvo is President and CEO of
Guadalupe Center. To learn more, please visit
GuadalupeCenter.org or call 239-657-7711.
www.LifeInNaples.net