Tag Archives: Heights Cultural Arts and Community Center

Riverside Church Builds Wheelchair Ramp for Harlem Heights Resident

Posted on May 30, 2013 by simplifyadmin

(Fort Myers – May 30, 2013) – Volunteers from Riverside Church built a wheelchair ramp for an elderly Harlem Heights homeowner who sought assistance through the Heights Center’s Family Advocacy program. The Center’s programs had previously helped the woman, who is disabled and uses a wheelchair, to alleviate flooding in the front of her home.

Supplies for the wheelchair ramp were provided with financial support from Riverside Church and in-kind donations from The Home Depot. With technical assistance from Builder’s Care, Riverside Church submitted a building permit and planned multiple work days. Volunteers from the church worked 140 hours on the project that included removing overgrown trees and shrubs and providing yard maintenance the homeowner was unable to complete.

“The existing ramp had been decaying for many years and the homeowner had to go backwards down the ramp,” said Julie Workman, Chief Advocacy Officer of The Heights Center. “Because of the volunteers and financial contribution of Riverside Church and the support of Home Depot and Builders Care, she is now able to safely leave her home.”

The Heights Foundation works to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood. The Foundation’s mission is to promote family and community development, support education, health and wellness, and provide the benefits of enrichment, expressive and cultural arts. The 14,000 square-foot Harlem Heights Cultural Arts and Community Center opened in February 2013. For more information call (239) 482-7706 or visit www.heightsfoundation.org

About the Heights Foundation and the Heights Center
The Heights Center, supported by the Heights Foundation, is a place for Education, Opportunity, and Enrichment. The Heights Foundation works to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood. As a 501(c)3 grassroots organization, the Center’s mission is to promote family and community development, support education, health and wellness, and provide the benefits of enrichment, expressive and cultural arts. The 14,000 square-foot Harlem Heights Cultural Arts and Community Center opened in February 2013.

Harlem Heights was originally settled as a rural agricultural community. Approximately 1,200 children live in a mixture of single-family homes and multi-family apartments. Demographically, the population is approximately 55% Hispanic, 36% African-American, and 9% Caucasian. The poverty rate for children in Harlem Heights is more than twice the county average, with family income 40% below the county average. Families are not able to easily access family support services located in downtown Fort Myers, and benefit greatly from programs located within the neighborhood.

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Gulf Harbour Memorial Foundation Donates $15,000 to the Heights Foundation

Posted on May 7, 2013 by simplifyadmin

Donation will support completion of medical clinic

(Fort Myers – May 3, 2013) – Gulf Harbour Memorial Foundation donated $15,000 to the Heights Foundation to complete the foundation’s medical clinic. The clinic will provide access to quality health care for low-income, uninsured residents of Harlem Heights and surrounding communities. The clinic will be located at the Heights Center, 15570 Hagie Drive in Fort Myers, and will be run by Lee County Volunteers in Medicine.

“Gulf Harbour Memorial Foundation has been a long-time supporter of the Heights Foundation,” said Kathryn Kelly, President and CEO of the Heights Foundation. “Their investment in our community will allow us, in partnership with Lee County Volunteers in Medicine, to provide no-cost medical services and health advocacy to our community. We will help people take responsibility for keeping themselves healthy by promoting health and well-being and preventing illness. “

The Heights Center, supported by the Heights Foundation, is a place for education, opportunity, and enrichment. The Heights Foundation works to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood. As a 501(c)3 grassroots organization, the Center’s mission is to promote family and community development, support education, health and wellness, and provide the benefits of enrichment, expressive and cultural arts. The 14,000 square-foot Harlem Heights Cultural Arts and Community Center opened in February 2013. For more information call (239) 482-7706 or visit www.heightsfoundation.org

About the Heights Foundation and the Heights Center
The Heights Center, supported by the Heights Foundation, is a place for Education, Opportunity, and Enrichment. The Heights Foundation works to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood. As a 501(c)3 grassroots organization, the Center’s mission is to promote family and community development, support education, health and wellness, and provide the benefits of enrichment, expressive and cultural arts. The 14,000 square-foot Harlem Heights Cultural Arts and Community Center opened in February 2013.

Harlem Heights was originally settled as a rural agricultural community. Approximately 1,200 children live in a mixture of single-family homes and multi-family apartments. Demographically, the population is approximately 55% Hispanic, 36% African-American, and 9% Caucasian. The poverty rate for children in Harlem Heights is more than twice the county average, with family income 40% below the county average. Families are not able to easily access family support services located in downtown Fort Myers, and benefit greatly from programs located within the neighborhood.

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Heights Foundation Receives $25,000 Donation for Culinary Center

Posted on April 24, 2013 by simplifyadmin

Teaching Kitchen to Provide Workforce Training Programs

(Fort Myers – April 23, 2013) – The Pierce Family Fund donated $25,000 to the Heights Foundation to purchase a commercial hood, fire suppression and exhaust system for the Heights Culinary Center. The Culinary Center will be a commercial teaching kitchen, located within The Heights Center—a 14,000 square- foot facility for education, opportunity and enrichment in the Harlem Heights community. The Heights Culinary Center will provide family self-sufficiency and development through workforce training, entrepreneurship, and community feeding programs.

“Our intent is to help under-employed adults gain the skills and experience needed to meet their life goals. We are excited to partner with area resorts, life-care establishments, restaurants and hotels to provide job-ready, qualified and motivated staff to meet their needs.” said Kathryn Kelly, President and CEO of the Heights Foundation. “The donation by the Pierce family allows us to purchase the most important piece of equipment in our kitchen.”

Additional commercial equipment is needed to complete the teaching kitchen.

The Heights Center, supported by the Heights Foundation, is a place for education, opportunity, and enrichment. The Heights Foundation works to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood. The Center’s mission is to promote family and community development, support education, health and wellness, and provide the benefits of enrichment, expressive and cultural arts. The Harlem Heights Cultural Arts and Community Center is located at 15570 Hagie Drive in Fort Myers. For more information about the Heights Center and the Heights Culinary Center call (239) 482-7706 or visit www.heightsfoundation.org

About the Heights Foundation and the Heights Center
The Heights Center, supported by the Heights Foundation, is a place for Education, Opportunity, and Enrichment. The Heights Foundation works to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood. As a 501(c)3 grassroots organization, the Center’s mission is to promote family and community development, support education, health and wellness, and provide the benefits of enrichment, expressive and cultural arts. The 14,000 square-foot Harlem Heights Cultural Arts and Community Center opened in February 2013.

Harlem Heights was originally settled as a rural agricultural community. Approximately 1,200 children live in a mixture of single-family homes and multi-family apartments. Demographically, the population is approximately 55% Hispanic, 36% African-American, and 9% Caucasian. The poverty rate for children in Harlem Heights is more than twice the county average, with family income 40% below the county average. Families are not able to easily access family support services located in downtown Fort Myers, and benefit greatly from programs located within the neighborhood.

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Jennifer’s March Fashion Forward Friday to benefit the Heights Foundation

Posted on February 21, 2013 by simplifyadmin

Local Boutique Celebrates 30 Years in Style by Supporting Local Charities

(Fort Myers, FL – February 20, 2013) –Jennifer’s is celebrating its 30th anniversary in Southwest Florida by giving back to the community. Charities will benefit from “Fashion Forward Fridays” at the women’s boutique through June. Participating charities include Special Equestrians, Eden Autism Services, Abuse Counseling & Treatment, Island Coast AIDS Network, The Heights Foundation, Quality Life Center, Making Strides against Breast Cancer (ACS) and The Salvation Army.

The next Fashion Forward Friday will be held on Friday March 1 from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Shoppers will enjoy champagne and refreshments and 5% of all sales will be donated to the Heights Foundation. There will also be drawings for six $30 gift certificates.

Jennifer Williams opened her Fort Myers boutique in November of 1983 on McGregor Boulevard at Cypress Square; the same location where it stands today. Her style is subtle, simple and sophisticated. Jennifer’s has always actively given back to the community

“The Heights Foundation works to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood,” said Williams. “We are proud to highlight their work and give back to them.”

Jennifer’s is located at 13451 McGregor Boulevard at Cypress Lake Drive (Cypress Square) and is open from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Call (239) 481-8582 or visit Jennifer’s online at jennifersfortmyers.com

About Jennifer’s

The Fort Myers women’s boutique was founded by Jennifer Williams in 1983. Jennifer’s offers subtle and timeless pieces that can be worn every day. Jennifer’s is located at 13451 McGregor Boulevard at Cypress Lake Drive in the Cypress Square Shopping Center. For more information call 239-481-8582 or visit Jennifer’s online at jennifersfortmyers.com.

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Harlem Heights Cultural Arts and Community Center Ribbon Cutting February 28

Posted on February 7, 2013 by simplifyadmin

(Fort Myers, Fla. – February 7, 2013) –The ribbon cutting of the $5.8 million, 14,000-square foot Harlem Heights Cultural Arts and Community Center will take place on Thursday, February 28 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Center, located in the Harlem Heights community at 15570 Hagie Drive in Fort Myers. The event is free and open to the public.

The Heights Foundation supports the Heights Center, a place for education, opportunity, and enrichment. The Center’s mission is to promote family and community development, support education, health and wellness, and provide the benefits of enrichment, expressive and cultural arts in the Harlem Heights neighborhood.

The Heights Center stood as a shell for four years after the real estate crash forced a philanthropist to rescind a $4 million dollar pledge. “Because of the generous support of local donors, along with the tenacity and dedicated work of our Board of Directors, Advisory Committee, employees, volunteers, the residents of Harlem Heights and the Harlem Heights Improvement Association, we were able to make the Center a reality,” said Kathryn Kelly, President and CEO of the Heights Foundation. “We will open our doors debt-free.”

In 2012 the Heights Foundation and their partners provided 6,400 camp days, 6,000 afterschool days and 400 backpacks filled with supplies. Enriching afterschool and summer camp programs, literacy classes and early learning play groups helped children succeed in school. Adults in the Heights neighborhood benefited from financial education, Financial Peace training and volunteer tax assistance. “Our current programs are bursting at the seams,” said Kelly. “Our new center will allow our programs to grow and flourish. We welcome the community to join us for the ribbon cutting to celebrate this milestone.”
For more information call (239) 482-7706 or visit www.heightsfoundation.org

About the Heights Foundation and the Heights Center

The Heights Center, supported by the Heights Foundation, is a place for Education, Opportunity, and Enrichment. The Heights Foundation works to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood. As a 501(c)3 grassroots organization, the Center’s mission is to promote family and community development, support education, health and wellness, and provide the benefits of enrichment, expressive and cultural arts.

Harlem Heights was originally settled as a rural agricultural community. Approximately 1,200 children live in a mixture of single-family homes and multi-family apartments. Demographically, the population is approximately 55% Hispanic, 36% African-American, and 9% Caucasian. The poverty rate for children in Harlem Heights is more than twice the county average, with family income 40% below the county average. Families are not able to easily access family support services located in downtown Fort Myers, and benefit greatly from programs located within the neighborhood.

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The Heights Foundation Love Your Neighbor

Posted on January 18, 2013 by simplifyadmin

We had so much fun working on this video for the Heights Foundation – a sneak peek at the newly completed Heights Center. Look for grand opening events coming soon!

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Toys Needed to Bring Holiday Joy to Area Children

Posted on December 13, 2012 by simplifyadmin

Donations Sought for Annual Heights Community Toy Drive

(Fort Myers – December 12, 2012) – The Heights Foundation and Brightest Horizons Child Development Center are seeking organizations and individuals to participate in annual Harlem Heights Community Toy Drive. Local residents, businesses and philanthropic groups are asked to donate new, unwrapped toys for local children. Gifts are needed for more than 500 children, ranging in age from birth to 17 years of age.

The gifts will be distributed on Saturday, December 22 at the Heights Center’s “Holiday Wonderland” where each child will have the opportunity to choose a toy.

“This holiday season will again be challenging for many families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood,” said Julie Workman, Director of Programs and Community Relations for the Heights Foundation. This is a great opportunity to bring joy to the children of our community. We are thankful for the generous support of our neighbors.”

Toys can be dropped off at The Heights Foundation, 15570 Hagie Drive, or Brightest Horizons located at 10320 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers. Toys will be collected through Friday, December 21.

Volunteers are also needed to assist with event set up and at the event.

Organizations and individuals interested in participating can contact Julie Workman at (239) 482-7706 or Julie@heightsfoundation.org. All donations are tax deductible. Monetary donations can be made on the web at www.heightsfoundation.org/get-involved.

About the Heights Foundation and the Heights Center

The Heights Center, supported by the Heights Foundation, is a place for Education, Opportunity, and Enrichment. We work to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood. As a 501(c)3 grassroots organization, the Center’s mission is to promote family and community development, support education, health and wellness, and provide the benefits of enrichment, expressive and cultural arts. The Heights Center is under construction and will be completed this December.

Harlem Heights was originally settled as a rural agricultural community. Approximately 1,200 children live in a mixture of single-family homes and multi-family apartments. Demographically, the population is approximately 55% Hispanic, 36% African-American, and 9% Caucasian. The poverty rate for children in Harlem Heights is more than twice the county average, with family income 40% below the county average. Families are not able to easily access family support services located in downtown Fort Myers, and benefit greatly from programs located within the neighborhood.

About Brightest Horizons Child Development Center

For more than 38 years, Brightest Horizons has been serving children of low-income working families in the Greater Harlem Heights area of Fort Myers, Florida. A state-licensed, not-for-profit United Way organization providing educational programs for 163 children from four weeks to 12 years of age, Brightest Horizons is nationally accredited through APPLE and has been awarded the Gold Seal of Excellence by the State of Florida. For more information call (239) 481-2100.

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“Love Your Neighbor” to support the Heights Foundation

Posted on December 4, 2012 by simplifyadmin

January 16 event benefits School Success programs for at-risk children in Harlem Heights

(Fort Myers, Fla. – December 4, 2012) — “Love Your Neighbor”, an annual event benefiting the Heights Foundation, will be held Wednesday, January 16, 2013 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Gulf Harbour home of Daun and Peter Dessak. Guests will enjoy an assortment of culinary creations from local restaurants along with a selection of fine wine and spirits. Live and silent auction items will be offered and all proceeds will benefit the School Success programs for at-risk children in the Harlem Heights Neighborhood. Nearly $300,000 was raised at last year’s event including $150,000 toward the annual fund and $150,000 to complete the capital campaign.

“The residents of Harlem Heights are our neighbors,” said Daun Dessak. “We believe it is important to support the Heights Foundation in their mission to build strong, self-sufficient families and education is the key to their success.”

“Our School Success program includes academic tutoring, after school and summer camp programs, scholarship and college access assistance, school supplies, and tuition support”, said Kathryn Kelly, President and CEO of The Heights Foundation. “Each program is geared to meet the specific needs of children and young adults who seek to further their education.”

Tickets are now on sale for $150 each and space is limited. Purchase tickets at www.heightsfoundation.org or call Laurie at (239) 482-7706.

About the Heights Foundation and the Heights Center

The Heights Center, supported by the Heights Foundation, is a place for Education, Opportunity, and Enrichment. We work to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood. As a 501(c)3 grassroots organization, the Center’s mission is to promote family and community development, support education, health and wellness, and provide the benefits of enrichment, expressive and cultural arts. The Heights Center is under construction and will be completed this month.

Harlem Heights was originally settled as a rural agricultural community. Approximately 1,200 children live in a mixture of single-family homes and multi-family apartments. Demographically, the population is approximately 55% Hispanic, 36% African-American, and 9% Caucasian. The poverty rate for children in Harlem Heights is more than twice the county average, with family income 40% below the county average. Families are not able to easily access family support services located in downtown Fort Myers, and benefit greatly from programs located within the neighborhood.

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Heights Foundation Thanksgiving Outreach Helps Nearly 400 Families

Posted on November 27, 2012 by simplifyadmin

(Fort Myers – November 21, 2012) – The Heights Foundation held the 13th annual Bountiful Blessings Thanksgiving Food outreach on Sunday, November 18. Since 1999, the program has helped families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood make a traditional Thanksgiving meal to share with their families. This year partner agencies, businesses, philanthropic organizations and more than 150 volunteers provided turkey dinners with all of the fixings to nearly 400 families.

Families enjoyed crafts, activities, and the opportunity to have family photographs taken. Attendees were also able to get a free health needs assessment to help plan a future free clinic.

“The Heights Foundation works to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood. The success of our Thanksgiving outreach is due to the generous support of our neighbors who contribute their time and money to support our mission.” said Julie Workman, Director of Programs and Community Relations for the Heights Foundation.

For more information about the Heights Foundation and the Heights Center call (239) 482-7706 or visit www.heightsfoundation.org

About the Heights Foundation and the Heights Center

The Heights Center, supported by the Heights Foundation, is a place for Education, Opportunity, and Enrichment. We work to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood. As a 501(c)3 grassroots organization, the Center’s mission is to promote family and community development, support education, health and wellness, and provide the benefits of enrichment, expressive and cultural arts. The Heights Center is under construction and will be completed this December.

Harlem Heights was originally settled as a rural agricultural community. Approximately 1,200 children live in a mixture of single-family homes and multi-family apartments. Demographically, the population is approximately 55% Hispanic, 36% African-American, and 9% Caucasian. The poverty rate for children in Harlem Heights is more than twice the county average, with family income 40% below the county average. Families are not able to easily access family support services located in downtown Fort Myers, and benefit greatly from programs located within the neighborhood.

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SPADA Hosts December 1 Toy Drive to Benefit Children of Harlem Heights

Posted on November 26, 2012 by simplifyadmin

SPADA Salon and Day Spa is hosting a toy drive to benefit the children of Harlem Heights on Saturday, December 1 between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. at SPADA, 13161 McGregor Boulevard in Fort Myers. 93.7 LITE will be broadcasting from SPADA with giveaways including Miami Dolphin tickets. Everyone donating an unwrapped toy will receive a $5 gift certificate toward a future SPADA service.

Gifts are needed for more than 500 children, ranging in age from birth to 17 years of age. Gifts will be collected through December 20th at SPADA.

The gifts will be distributed on Saturday, December 22 at the Heights Foundation & Brightest Horizons “Holiday Wonderland” where each child will have the opportunity to choose a toy.

“We are parents of young children and want to reach children in our community who need our support to make their holidays bright.” said and Andrew and Judy Williams, owners of SPADA Salon and Day Spa.

“This holiday season will again be challenging for many families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood,” said Julie Workman, Director of Programs and Community Relations for the Heights Foundation. “This is a great opportunity to bring happiness to the children of our community.”

“The excitement on the faces of the children as they shop for their special toy is a joy to see,” said Tina Parsons, Brightest Horizons’ Executive Director. “We are blessed with the generosity of SPADA and the many people and organizations within our community who give of their time and resources to support the children of the Harlem Heights neighborhood.”

For more information contact Judy Williams at SPADA Salon & Day Spa at (239) 482-1858.

About SPADA Salon and Day Spa

SPADA is Southwest Florida’s largest day spa with 14 private treatment rooms, 12 hair stations, 6 pedicure and four manicure stations a sauna, steam room, two lounges, vichy room and two couples suites. The 10,000 square foot spa has served as a luxurious, relaxing destination for more than a decade. In the fall of 2011, SPADA transferred ownership to Andrew and Judy Williams. Since that time, the Williams have elevated the luxurious touches of SPADA, ensuring that each client receives an unparalleled experience. The Williams’ are firmly committed to the community and the opportunity to help others look and feel their best.

About the Heights Foundation and the Heights Center

The Heights Center, supported by the Heights Foundation, is a place for Education, Opportunity, and Enrichment. We work to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood. As a 501(c)3 grassroots organization, the Center’s mission is to promote family and community development, support education, health and wellness, and provide the benefits of enrichment, expressive and cultural arts. The Heights Center is under construction and will be completed this December.

About Brightest Horizons Child Development Center

For more than 38 years, Brightest Horizons has been serving children of low-income working families in the Greater Harlem Heights area of Fort Myers, Florida. A state-licensed, not-for-profit United Way organization providing educational programs for 163 children from four weeks to 12 years of age, Brightest Horizons is nationally accredited through APPLE and has been awarded the Gold Seal of Excellence by the State of Florida. For more information call (239) 481-2100.

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