The Heights CareerTech Institute Steering Committee recently took a hard-hat tour of the building in progress, getting an up-close look at construction milestones and the vision taking shape for this transformative campus.

We thank the members of our HCTI Steering Committee for their leadership and dedication, which continue to guide this initiative forward.

The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center hosted its 18th Annual Love Your Neighbor fundraiser on February 1, raising an extraordinary $1.25 million to support its mission of building strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights community of Fort Myers. The sold-out event was held at The Heights Center.

“We were overwhelmed by the generosity of our friends and supporters who are committed to funding the meaningful work we do,” said Kathryn Kelly, Founder, President, and CEO of The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center. “As Harlem Heights transitioned from farmland to residential development, many families lost their primary source of income. Since 2000, our mission has been to come alongside families — meeting them where they are, offering hope, and providing support so that an emergency doesn’t escalate into a crisis.”
Kelly emphasized the organization’s commitment to education as a pathway out of poverty, noting that The Heights’ preschool, afterschool, summer camp, and adult education programs create opportunities for both children and parents to thrive.

Guests were welcomed by Board Chair Jim Dwyer and enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres by CRAVE Culinaire. Emcee Kellie Burns of Gulf Coast News and Auctioneer Scott Robertson of Champion Fundraising Auctions led the evening’s program, which included a Fund A Need. A $100,000 challenge match from Gaye and Jim Pigott helped inspire donors to raise $725,500 in support of The Heights’ educational programs.

A highlight of the evening was a special performance by children from The Heights Center’s AfterSchool program, who filled the room with music and inspiration.

The five-course dinner was artfully created by Harold Balink of Harold’s Restaurant and featured a beautifully curated progression of flavors. Guests began with a caramelized onion almond tart amuse paired with Sauvignon Blanc, followed by a vibrant first course of tuna crudo with pickled tomato, burrata, and basil oil.

The meal continued with black bass served over pea risotto with Barolo sauce, and a rich Wagyu striploin accompanied by duck fat potatoes and green peppercorn sauce. Each course was expertly paired with wines by Benovia Winery, selected by owner Joe Anderson, creating a memorable culinary and wine experience for guests.

Dessert was a decadent finale from Norman Love Confections, featuring a layered chocolate truffle cake with mousse, cream, and crunch.

Top auction packages included:
• A luxury weeklong stay in a private home in Paxos, Greece, paired with wardrobe packages from Brodeur Carvell Fine Men’s Wear and Jennifer’s Boutique.
• A stunning, one-of-a-kind pair of earring pendants from Mark Loren Designs showcased hand-forged 14-karat rose gold adorned with vivid Chrysocolla stones laced in natural copper veining. Accented with 1.92 total carats of lab-grown diamonds, glowing orange sapphire briolettes, and Montana sapphires set in matching rose gold hoops, the piece blended earthy elegance with refined brilliance.
• A luxury New York City experience featuring dining at Daniel and Le Bernardin, Broadway shows, and cultural outings, donated by Benovia Winery.
• A culinary and wine immersion in Spain hosted by Chef Gloria Jordan of Jordan’s Wine Bar and Cellar.
• A private in-home dinner for eight from Brian and Nicole Roland of CRAVE Culinaire.

An exclusive sign-up dinner with Chef Harold Balink and Gina Birch of Sunny 106.3 raised an additional $15,000.  Balink donated two additional dinners for ten raising another $30,000.

Live music was provided by Rob Robinson, keeping the celebration lively throughout the evening.

The event was made possible through the generosity of sponsors, including Florida Trust Wealth Management, Kelly Brothers, Inc., SKANSKA, Geralyn & Tom Donovan, Mary & Scott Fischer, Gaye & Jim Pigott, Pat & Bill Wiggenhorn, Owen-Ames-Kimball Co., RG Architects, Cheryl & Dave Copham, Dede D’Arcy, and Chris Schluter.
The Heights Foundation also extends heartfelt thanks to its event committee, volunteers, staff, and Board of Directors for their dedication in making the evening such a success.

The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center celebrated the spirit of giving on December 20 during our annual Christmas Outreach event, delivering joy and holiday magic to 972 children in the Harlem Heights community. With support from generous businesses, organizations, and volunteers, families received gifts for children from infancy through age 17.

Parents were able to personally select gifts for their children, ensuring a meaningful and surprise-filled Christmas morning. Children enjoyed festive activities throughout the day, including crafts, milk and cookies, and a special visit from Santa Claus.

The holiday season is particularly challenging for many families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood. The poverty rate for children in our community is more than twice the county average. This event wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of our neighbors and partners, who came together to brighten the holidays for these families.

Edison National Bank/Bank of the Islands served as the event sponsor and collected toys to support the effort.

This year’s Christmas Outreach was made possible through the dedication of 83 volunteers and the generosity of local businesses and organizations, including:

• Avalon Bay
• CLA advisors (CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP)
• Crestwell School
• Crown Colony
• Cypress Cove at Health Park
• Edison National Bank/Bank of the Islands
• Golfview Golf and Raquet Club
• Hurricane Tina’s
• Jason’s Deli
• Jennifer’s Boutique
• Lexington Country Club
• MarineMax of Fort Myers
• Mastique Condominiums
• Point Ybel Brewing
• Publix-Gladiolus Drive
• ReMax Realty Group
• Rotary Club of Fort Myers South
• Rotary Club of Sanibel-Captiva
• SanCap Power Squadron
• Sanibel Bible Church
• Scookie Dough
• Scotlynn Group
• Shell Point
• Shoreline Lumbar
• Spada Salon and Day Spa
• Spivey Law Firm
• Target
• Westminster Presbyterian Church
• Women With Spirit
• Zion Lutheran Church

Thank You for Making the Season Bright

As we reflect on this special day, our hearts are full of gratitude. To every volunteer who gave their time, every business and organization that donated, and every neighbor who supported this effort—thank you. Your generosity ensured that 972 children in the Harlem Heights community experienced the joy, dignity, and magic of Christmas.

Because of you, families felt supported, children felt celebrated, and hope shined brightly during a season that can be especially challenging for so many.

This event was a powerful reminder of what is possible when a community comes together with compassion and purpose.

From all of us at The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center, thank you for believing in our mission and for helping us build strong, self-sufficient families—during the holidays and throughout the year.

What a night! The Heights Party Band lit up the stage as we celebrated The 50th Anniversary of Randy’s 21st Birthday — and you helped make it unforgettable. Thank you to everyone who came out, danced, laughed, and filled the room with amazing energy. ❤️

⭐ Featuring Our Incredible Musicians

We’re grateful for the talented group who brought the music to life:

Randy & Lori Thomas

Rob Robinson

Kevin Kenworthy

Matthew Chapman

Steve Latanation

Their blend of classic rock, country, and crowd-favorite throwbacks kept the party going all night long!

🙌 Special Thanks to Our Sponsor

A heartfelt thank-you to Mercer Investment Properties for generously sponsoring the evening and supporting community events that bring neighbors together.

💛 And Thank YOU

Your presence, your cheers, and your support of The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center make all the difference. We’re honored to share nights like these with our friends and community.

The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center marked its 25th anniversary with an evening of celebration, reflection, and gratitude, honoring the people and partnerships that have helped transform the Harlem Heights neighborhood over the past quarter century. The event was held under the stars at The Heights Center.

“What began as a simple outreach of turkeys and groceries at Thanksgiving has become an institution focused on bringing hope to hundreds of families through education, opportunity, and enrichment,” said Kathryn Kelly, Founder, President, and CEO of The Heights Foundation. “Thinking about tonight and looking out at each of you, I’m reminded of Philippians 1:3 — ‘I thank my God every time I remember you.’ Each of you has played a part in this journey. Cheers to 25 years!”

The Heights Foundation’s story began with a Thanksgiving outreach organized by Westminster Presbyterian Church, where Kelly met Ana, a hardworking mother determined to build a better life for her six children. A donation from David and Linda Lucas enabled the purchase of a small home for Ana’s family — a gesture that sparked a lasting mission.

From that single act of compassion, The Heights Foundation was born. Today, Ana’s eldest daughter, Daiana, is a high school graduate and dental assistant pursuing her RN degree at Florida SouthWestern State College. “Her story embodies our mission,” said Kelly. “Her family beat the odds that poverty tried to define.”

In 2008, the Foundation broke ground on the long-awaited Harlem Heights Community Center, a dream championed by neighborhood matriarch Duera Mae Everett. When the financial crisis struck mid-construction, the project seemed doomed — until the community rallied.

Contractor Owen-Ames-Kimball (O-A-K) and project supervisor Dave Dale, supported by O-A-K President Steve Shimp, worked with Kelly to keep the project alive while the Foundation re-raised the $4 million needed to finish the building. “What seemed like adversity had a silver lining,” Kelly recalled. “Instead of one donor, more than forty came together to finish this beautiful community center.”

Former Board President Victor Mayeron was honored for his leadership during a pivotal time. “When I think of 25 years of The Heights Foundation, I see families who’ve risen, children discovering their brilliance, and neighbors walking confidently toward their futures,” said Mayeron. “From day one, Kathryn Kelly saw potential where others saw need. Through recessions, hurricanes, and hardships, The Heights Foundation has only strengthened its embrace. These buildings — the Community Center, Education Building, Early Learning Center, and upcoming CareerTech Institute — stand as symbols of faith, perseverance, and love. The best chapters are still ahead.”

The completion of the Community Center paved the way for the Heights Education Building, which opened in 2020. The facility houses the Heights Charter School and the Early Learning Center, ensuring children in Harlem Heights receive a strong academic foundation.

Kelly credited Dr. Deb Mathinos, Chief Program Officer, for her partnership and vision in expanding educational programs that empower children from infancy through high school.

The Foundation’s next milestone — the Heights CareerTech Institute — broke ground in March 2025. The $42 million post-secondary technical school, designed by RG Architects and constructed by O-A-K, will prepare students for high-demand careers in construction trades, healthcare, culinary arts, and more. To date, $31.36 million has been raised toward the campaign.

“In 25 years, this neighborhood has transformed from farmland to a thriving community of homes, businesses, and opportunity,” said Jim Pigott, Chair of The Heights Foundation’s CareerTech Institute Capital Campaign. “The Heights Foundation has grown alongside the people it serves. Helping families achieve stability through meaningful work is deeply rewarding. The new CareerTech Institute is a win for students, families, and Southwest Florida’s future workforce.”

Guest speaker Charlie Mitchell, a Harlem Heights native, former board member, and elder at Summit Church, shared how the Foundation’s programs changed lives — including his own. “Poverty is not a line; it’s a tangled knot,” said Kelly. “Multigenerational poverty is a tight knot. It’s not just financial — it’s poverty of hope, spirit, and opportunity. Our mission is to unravel that knot and bring hope to this neighborhood.”

Today, The Heights Foundation employs 62 staff members and provides more than 400,000 hours of service each year through early learning, after-school and summer programs, GED classes, arts and music instruction, and senior services — all at an average cost of just $11 per hour.

“The kids in Harlem Heights are growing up, and we have the privilege and opportunity to truly impact their lives,” said Kelly. “We’re building a future rooted in hope — and we’re just getting started.”