See the Changemakers in Action

Since 1991, The Immokalee Foundation has been a powerful agent for change through a 100% focus on education, career readiness, and professional development for students in Immokalee—from kindergarten through postsecondary education.

The Foundation’s robust programming prepares these dedicated young people for well-paying, in-demand professional careers in Business Management & Entrepreneurship, Education & Human Services, Engineering & Construction Management, and Healthcare.

A vibrant community primarily noted as home to farm workers and laborers, Immokalee has been dramatically enhanced by our 33 years of educational support and the over 16,000 young scholars who have passed through our doors on their way to enhanced professional success.

Our alumni are your friends and neighbors. They tend to your healthcare needs and operate area businesses. They design and build your homes, educate your children and grandchildren, and take on vital roles as public servants.

As there's an excellent chance you encounter Immokalee Foundation alumni on a regular basis, taking a tour of The Immokalee Foundation is a fantastic way to witness firsthand the Foundation's positive impact on the community we share.

These guided tours provide an opportunity to personally connect with our dedicated staff and extraordinary students, deepening your understanding of their work and achievements and how these young people have positioned themselves to improve your life down the road.

We recently had the privilege of hosting Ashley Smith and Ashley Gerry, Co-Chairs of the Women Lifting Women Leadership Cabinet. Here's what Ashley Gerry had to say about her experience.

The Immokalee Foundation (TIF): What motivated Women Lifting Women to visit The Immokalee Foundation, and what were your initial impressions upon arrival?

Ashley Gerry (AG): I wanted to witness how the program worked with these children to make a difference and see how our grants could help continue the mission!

TIF: Can you describe your interaction with our staff and/or students during the tour? What stood out to you?

AG: Everyone was very knowledgeable and passionate about the work being done at Immokalee Foundation. It was clear from start to finish.

TIF: What specific programs or activities resonated with you the most, and why?

AG: I love the focus on career-building and creating goals for students to complete their dreams. I also really loved the home-building project!

TIF: Were there any surprising insights or takeaways from your visit that you didn't expect?

AG: It was inspiring to see how much hands-on experience the students get, such as the home-building project.

TIF: How do you think experiences like this can impact participants' understanding of our mission and programs?

AG: I think that when you can truly see tangibly how the program is truly making a difference, it would only help others join the program as well as support the mission.

TIF: How do you see the work being done here influencing the community?

AG: It's making a complete difference in these kids' lives. In many of these instances, without the support or tools provided for these students to succeed, it would be much more difficult to achieve their career and life goals and, ultimately, their contributions to the workforce.

TIF: What are the key benefits of engaging in such tours for groups like yours?

AG: There is nothing like seeing it in person. You can read about it online, but actually seeing the difference you are making with your own eyes is invaluable.

Come see us in action! We would love to take you and your guests on an inspirational tour through our Program Services facility and Learning Lab Home Construction Project!

Our students and staff are excited to meet you and show you where many of Southwest Florida's most powerful pathways to success get their start.