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Long known for its annual fundraising event, NCF has The brand relaunch comes at a critical time, as Collier County
historically shared its digital presence with the NWWF. Its experiences rapid population growth and increased pressure on
new website, www.NaplesChildrenFoundation.org, provides the systems that serve children and families.
a dedicated platform that brings the Foundation’s mission to “This move comes after more than a year of strategic planning
life—telling the full year-round story of how NCF creates and involves much more than a name or logo change,” said
measurable results that empower children, strengthen families Robert Heidt Jr., NCF Board Chairman. “It is a renewed
and transform communities. commitment - to clarity, to impact and to the belief that when a
Remaining fully committed to presenting one of the world's community comes together for its children, anything is possible.”
most successful charity wine auctions, NCF’s strategic move Since inception, NCF has invested more than $336 million
includes a bold commitment to reaching beyond its historic into nearly 90 of the community’s most effective non-profits—
base of NWWF supporters to engage new donors, community supporting collaborative programs that are changing the
leaders and advocates. trajectory of children’s lives across the region. Along the way,
“Since our inception, we have impacted the lives of 385,000 NCF has evolved into the single largest source of funding for
vulnerable children in our community,” said Maria Jimenez- children’s social services in Collier County.
Lara, CEO of the Naples Children Foundation. “But today, the Key highlights of the new Naples Children Foundation
needs are greater than ever -and so is our commitment. This website include:
next chapter enables us to showcase the work we do and invite A spotlight on NCF’s Four Service Categories and Seven
all members of our community to join a mission that shapes Strategic Initiatives
the future of Collier County. It is important to emphasize that A focus on collaborative, systemic change rather than
this is not a shift in direction—it’s a declaration of who we have traditional charity
always been.” Powerful storytelling, impact data and a direct invitation to
get involved
“We are not just raising money,” said Valerie Boyd, NCF
Co-Founder. “We are strengthening our community—by setting
higher standards, fostering collaboration and ensuring that every
investment leads to meaningful, measurable outcomes.”
The Naples Children Foundation invites the community
to learn more about what’s possible when a community comes
together for its children by visiting
www.NaplesChildrenFoundation.org

About Naples Children Foundation
The Naples Children Foundation, the founding organization of the
Naples Winter Wine Festival, creates transformational change and
improves educational, emotional and health outcomes for vulnerable
children in Collier County. Through its annual grants and strategic
initiatives, NCF has impacted nearly 90 of the most effective
nonprofits in the local community, providing 385,000 children
with the services and resources they need to succeed. Through bold
investments, collaborative partnerships, and data-driven solutions,
NCF supports programs that ensure every child can thrive. NCF’s
unique approach, which bridges public and private resources, has
become a blueprint for how to transform a community –
one issue at a time.

About Naples Winter Wine Festival
The Naples Winter Wine Festival (NWWF), one of the
world's most prestigious charity wine auctions, offers a weekend of
unforgettable memories. Guests enjoy world-class food and wine
during intimate dinners in elegant, private homes and other landmark
settings throughout Naples and are invited to bid on once-in-a-lifetime
travel and wine experiences during an electrifying live auction. Since
its inaugural event in 2001, the NWWF has raised more than $336
million, making a profound difference in the lives of hundreds of
thousands of children in Collier County.

Life in Naples | December 2025 65