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.”
“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.”
