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The Immokalee Foundation

Literacy Makes

Everything

Possible

Elementary school students particpate in The Immokalee Readers Literacy Program.
by Noemi Y. Perez, President and CEO,
The Immokalee Foundation
am always drawn to the idea of improvement in their literacy skills.

I that 94% of our students are reading on grade level by 10th grade,
beginnings. Beginnings are powerful,
Their literacy success doesn't stop there. I am proud to share
carrying hope, possibility, and the
promise of what lies ahead. At The Immokalee as measured by their Achieve3000 Lexile scores. A supplemental
Foundation, our work begins with early literacy online literacy platform for students in Pre-K through 12 and adult
intervention, one of the most essential building learners, Achieve3000 focuses on building reading comprehension,
blocks of a child's life and one of the strongest vocabulary, and writing skills by delivering differentiated nonfiction
predictors of future success. The ability to read opens doors to content tailored to each student's reading ability.
confidence and learning, laying the foundation for everything that These powerful statistics highlight the longitudinal impact along
follows. our career-building continuum, but they only tell part of the story.
Our Immokalee Readers after-school program marks the Much of it also lies in the immense pride a parent feels as they
first step in our continuum of educational and career-building watch their child read, often for the very first time. It's a moment
support, serving students in kindergarten through fifth grade that carries the belief that their child's future, and their family's
with critical literacy and language development. During this time, future, can be different.
their potential takes root as they prepare for the journey ahead— Since 2015, an extraordinary 142 students who began their
from career exploration and immersive learning experiences to Immokalee Foundation journey with Immokalee Readers remained
postsecondary education and, ultimately, long-term success and with us in middle and high school and into postsecondary
financial independence. education, often for an astounding 10 years or more.
For many of our students, English is not the primary language In the years ahead, I look forward to sharing their inspiring
spoken at home, and their parents may not be able to support their journeys and many more as they grow with us, from their first steps
homework, reading, and writing. Immokalee Readers helps bridge in Immokalee Readers to lasting career success.
that gap, ensuring students receive the support they need during This literacy success would not be possible without all of our
these formative years. dedicated supporters, donors, volunteers, and staff. I would also like
This year alone, 740 students are benefiting from the to thank our valued partners in education, Collier County Public
Immokalee Reader's program at all five of Immokalee's elementary Schools and Naples Children Foundation, whose collaboration
schools, as well as an Immokalee-based charter school and the helps make these beginnings—and ultimate stories of success—a
Boys and Girls Club. They are supported by 61 certified classroom reality.
teachers and 53 program tutors who are also Foundation Career About The Immokalee Foundation
Pathways students, gaining valuable, real-world work experience. For 34 years, The Immokalee Foundation has been preparing the
Without early literacy intervention, our students risk joining next generation of leaders through a 100% focus on education, career
the 54% of the U.S. population that lacks literacy proficiency, readiness, and workforce development for students in Immokalee—from
limiting their ability to reach their full potential and career dreams. kindergarten through postsecondary education.
Our outcomes demonstrate what is possible when students To learn more about The Immokalee Foundation, become a mentor,
receive the proper support at the right time. Last year, 97% host an intern, take a tour, volunteer as a career panel speaker or host,
of Immokalee Readers students demonstrated measurable
donate, or include the Foundation in your will, please call
239-430-9122 or visit www.immokaleefoundation.org

54 www.LifeInNaples.net