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.

FORT MYERS, FL — January 25, 2026 — Award-winning, Naples-based artist Juan Diaz has completed and permanently installed a monumental large scale mural titled The Growth of Our Beloved Neighborhood at The Heights Foundation’s Educational Building Main Lobby in Fort Myers, Florida. The mural was officially installed on January 17, 2026.

Commissioned as a public art project, the mural spans twelve hand-built wooden panels,measuring 12.6 feet by 21 feet, and was created using acrylic latex. The work was developed in collaboration with the children and elders of the Harlem Heights neighborhood, reinforcing the Heights Foundation’s long-standing mission to serve and uplift the community.

The mural reflects the 25 year history and impact of the Heights Foundation within Harlem Heights, weaving together the neighborhood’s past, present, and future into a unified visual narrative.

Conversations for the project began in September 2024, with the agreement finalized in late October 2025. The final composition was approved by Kathryn Kelly, Founder, CEO, and President of The Heights Foundation.

Throughout the development process, Diaz identified deep parallels between his own family’s experiences and those of Harlem Heights families.

This personal connection inspired him to include representations of his family and himself within the mural as a heartfelt tribute.

Juan Diaz began the project in early November 2025, hand-building each of the twelve panels. A community painting day was later hosted at the Heights Foundation’s auditorium, where neighborhood children and elders contributed by painting the mural’s underlayer, infusing the work with collective energy and spirit.

Diaz began painting the final approved composition on December 14, 2025. The painting process spanned 24 consecutive days, with the artist working up to 17 hours per day. The completed mural, The Growth of Our Beloved Neighborhood (2026), was permanently installed on Saturday, January 17, 2026.

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On January 17, 2026, the Public Art commissioned mural titled “The Growth of Our Beloved Neighborhood, 2026”, created in collaboration with the children and elders of Harlem Heights, was permanently installed at The Heights Foundation’s Educational Building Main Lobby in Fort Myers, FL.

The Growth of Our Beloved Neighborhood, 2026

By Juan Diaz

Acrylic Latex on Twelve Wooden Panels
151.2 x 252 in. (384.048 x 640.08 cm)
The Heights Foundation Permanent Collection.

MURAL’S DESCRIPTION.
The mural “The Growth of Our Beloved Neighborhood” celebrates the vibrant spirit of Southwest Florida, with a focus on the Harlem Heights neighborhood and the transformative impact of the Heights Foundation and the Heights Center. Since the Foundation’s inception in 2000, the area has thrived, fueled by dedicated efforts and a clear purpose.

A gladiolus field covers the land, beautifully depicting the area’s beginnings as a farm-working community and serving as the ideal backdrop to tell its story. A sunny sky with a hint of outer space represents infinite possibilities that lie beyond.

The mature tree to the right embodies home, strong families, and resilient communities. Below, in black and white, the two children picking gladiolus flowers in front of a modest home acknowledged and honored the neighborhood’s history. In the foreground, the older woman sitting embodies the grandmothers of our community—matriarchs who form the heart and soul of families, offering unconditional love, wisdom, and guidance. The young couple behind her, filled with hope and excitement for their newborn, gazes out toward the horizon, dreaming of a bright and promising future.

In the bottom left, an adult woman reads to children, underscoring educators’ vital role in shaping the community’s future. At the center of the mural, five children joyfully play instruments and create art, reflecting the vibrant present and the Heights Center’s mission to nurture well-rounded individuals through education and cultural enrichment.

At the top, a high school graduate smiles with joy, hope, and pride, symbolizing a bright future ahead. To the left, a group of young professionals stands confidently against a city skyline, representing the wealth of opportunities that await.

Finally, the wavy stairway that crosses the composition depicts life’s journey, filled with opportunities disguised as challenges. It is up to each of us, with the support of family and community, to navigate this path with commitment and determination to improve our chances of leading a rewarding and purposeful life.

This powerful imagery encapsulates the ongoing journey from a humbled past to a promising future of strong, self-sufficient families.

“The Growth of Our Beloved Neighborhood” reflects our part as significant contributors to the area’s transformation, growth, and development.

ABOUT THE ARTIST
Juan Diaz is an award-winning contemporary painter and household name, based in Naples, Florida, known for his large-scale murals and community-driven public art projects that explore identity, heritage, and collective resilience.

Juan Diaz was born in 1981 in Bogota, Colombia. His father graduated from Colombia’s National University with an emphasis in fine art and recognized his sons natural creative intelligence and artistic gifts by age 5. After graduating from Naples High School in 1999, Diaz studied art history, materials, and techniques independently. Jonathan Green Studios granted a three-year Artist residency, (2006-2009) and more recently Diaz has assisted world renowned artist Marcus Jansen at his Fort Myers studios.

Since the late 1990s, Diaz has used painting and drawing to explore the human condition. In
2010, he added performing art and installations to investigate the relationship between life and
death. His work reflects a constant search to express his understanding of the human experience and shows a desire to break out of his comfort zone.
Diaz’s work has been featured at the Baker Museum of Art/Artis-Naples, The Naples Depot
Museum, Florida Gulf Coast University, and Art Basel Miami Beach. Commissions include The
Heights Foundation, Collier County Government in Florida, the Holocaust Museum of Southwest
Florida, and The Naples Art Association.
Diaz was the recipient of the Museum50 Juried Award in 2025, the Southwest Florida 2013
FACE Award for Culture & Arts, awarded by Gulfshore Life Business, and the 1999 Porter Goss Award. His style, mastery of drawing, and use of oils have earned him various award, including Best in Show and multiple scholarships.
Website: http://www.juandiazart.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juandiazart/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/DiazJuanM

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.

Wine lovers from across Southwest Florida gathered on the rooftop terrace of The Heights Center for An Evening at the Heights Foundation with Benovia Winery on Thursday, December 4. The intimate event was hosted by Benovia Winery owners Joe Anderson and Mary Dewane, who welcomed guests to enjoy world-class wines in a distinctive Southwest Florida setting.

The night featured a guided tasting of Benovia’s highly regarded Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Cabernet, Zinfandel and a special 20th anniversary wine, paired with light bites by Crave Culinaire and sweeping views of the Harlem Heights neighborhood. The experience reflected the warmth and hospitality for which the independent Sonoma winery is known.

In a highlight of the evening, Anderson and Dewane donated an extraordinary wine country getaway for three couples — a six-day, five-night stay overlooking the Cohn Estate Vineyard in Healdsburg, California, including a VIP lunch and tasting with Benovia’s winemaker and dinners at two of Sonoma County’s most acclaimed restaurants. Auctioneer Scott Robertson led spirited bidding that delivered an impressive result, raising nearly $50,000 to support the mission of The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center: building strong, self-sufficient families in Harlem Heights.

“Joe and Mary brought the heart of Benovia to our rooftop,” said Kathryn Kelly, Founder and CEO of The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center. “We are deeply grateful for the generosity they share — not only through exceptional wines, but through their commitment to making a difference for families right here in our community.”

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

About Benovia Winery

Benovia Winery is a family-owned, independent producer in Sonoma County, known for its exceptional estate-grown Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, as well as distinctive Zinfandel. Crafted with meticulous care and a deep respect for the land, Benovia wines embody a philosophy of place, people, and purpose. Owners Joe Anderson and Mary Dewane bring a passion for hospitality and community to every bottle they share.

About The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center

Harlem Heights is a low-income community in south Fort Myers, Florida. The Heights Foundation’s mission is to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood. The Heights Center, supported by The Heights Foundation, promotes education and wellness, nurtures family and community development, and provides the benefits of enrichment and the arts.

Heights Early Learning serves more than 85 babies through 4 years old. The Heights Center serves 150 children in AfterSchool and over 150 kids in Summer Camp. The Harlem Heights Community Charter School serves 200 children from kindergarten through fifth grade.

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. As a result, families cannot easily access family support services in downtown Fort Myers and benefit greatly from programs within the neighborhood.

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.”

The Heights Foundation announced that Saltwater Cowboy raised $165,000 to support The Heights Center’s Early Learning and AfterSchool programs, which provide a safe, nurturing place for kids to learn and grow while their parents work. The event was held on Friday, October 24 at MarineMax Fort Myers.

“We believe a quality education empowers at-risk kids to meet, challenge, and raise the bar on the world’s narrative of them,” said Kathryn Kelly, Founder, President, & CEO of The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center. “Our enriching preschool, AfterSchool, and Summer Camp programs ensure parents can work while their kids learn, are safe, and have fun. In addition, our adult and family programs provide opportunities for self-sufficiency. This event supports our children and families — and everyone had a great time!”

Guests enjoyed an extensive raw bar by Matt Asen of Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market, signature cocktails, and a steak dinner accompanied by fresh Gulf shrimp, prepared by Chef Jay Johnson of Bubba’s Roadhouse & Saloon. Live music by the Back Country Boys kept the dance floor full, and attendees explored a selection of luxury boats on display courtesy of MarineMax. Guests were greeted by children from The Heights Center’s programs.

A lively silent auction and live auction led by Bill Riddick of Saffer + Company Benefit Auctions boosted the fundraising total, featuring: an Everglades python hunt with Huntress Amy Siewe, an in-home dinner for eight by Chef Teh Peng, a trip to Iceland to see the Northern Lights, a sunset yacht cruise courtesy of MarineMax, and an ultimate at-home raw bar party for sixteen from Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market. A wine tasting and tapas for six at Jordan’s Wine Bar & Cellar was raffled off at the end of the auction for $100 per person, and raised more than $3,000.

Sponsors included: Hightower Thomas & Swartz Wealth Management, B&I Contractors, Owen-Ames-Kimball Co., RG Architects, Cheryl & Dave Copham, The Kelly Family, Laurie and Bill Harkey, FPL, RS Walsh Landscaping, Matern Engineering, Commercial Concrete Systems, Lee Drywall, Gulf Shore Cooling, Collaboratory, and Sanibel Captiva Community Bank.

Well-known media personality, Gina Birch, emceed the event.

The fundraiser was chaired by Jamie Fautz and Tiffany Kelly. Additional community partners and volunteers contributed to the event’s success.

“A special thank you to our generous sponsors, donors, supporters and volunteers for making the event such a wonderful success,” said Annie Campbell, Development Director of The Heights Foundation. “It was an incredible evening that truly impacts kids and families in Harlem Heights.”

For more information about The Heights Foundation, or to get involved, visit www.heightsfoundation.org or call (239) 482-7706.