Kathryn Kelly, President, CEO and Founder of The Heights Foundation and The Heights Center, non-profit organizations that work to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood, has earned her certificate in Fund Raising Management from Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.
The Fund Raising School is a vital part of the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, the most established and comprehensive institution in the world teaching the art and science of philanthropy. The Certificate in Fund Raising Management recognizes and substantiates a commitment to fundraising leadership through the completion of key courses including Principles & Techniques of Fundraising, Developing Major Gifts, Developing Annual Sustainability, Planned Giving and Managing the Capital Campaign.
Kelly has distinguished herself in creating meaningful, positive change in the lives of others. She has dedicated the past 17 years of her life to the families of the Harlem Heights community. Created to meet the physical needs of a few families, The Heights Foundation and The Heights Center have grown exponentially to become organizations that addresses fundamental challenges faced by families living in poverty. The Foundation removes obstacles so families can meet their personal goals and offer practical solutions such as job skills building and financial planning. Kids struggling in school are paired with tutors and mentors in afterschool and summer camp. The Harlem Heights Community Charter School was founded in 2016 to focus on the education of children in Harlem Heights.
For more information about The Heights Foundation and The Heights Center visit www.heightsfoundation.org or call (239) 482-7706.
About the Heights Foundation and the Heights Center
The Heights Foundation works to build self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood. The mission is to support education and wellness, promote family and community development, and provide the benefits of enrichment and the arts. The Heights Center, supported by The Heights Foundation, is a place for Education, Opportunity, and Enrichment.
Harlem Heights was originally settled as a rural agricultural community. Approximately 780 children live in a mixture of single-family homes and multi-family apartments. Demographically, the population is approximately 70% Hispanic, 20% African-American, and 8% 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.
