The Glades Education Foundation Receives Grant to Expand the AVID Program in Glades County

Moore Haven, Fla. (March 8, 2017) – The Glades Education Foundation received a grant from the Southwest Florida Community Foundation for AVID About Success.  As part of the Community Foundation’s 2016/17 Community Impact Grants, the Glades Education received $30,000 in funding to expand the AVID program in Glades County schools to grades 4-10.

AVID, which stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination, is a research-based program that brings strategies and curriculum to classrooms to prepare students in grades 4-12 for success in middle and high school. The Glades Education Foundation sought grant funding to provide mentoring and skill advancement for academic success, increase the number of students planning to apply for college, increase in the number of first-generation students who are matched with mentors, and increase in the number of students with knowledge of post-secondary attainment steps.  The AVID program targets students who are in the middle of the academic spectrum to help them become successful in school, college, and career. 

Laura Perry, Executive Director of the Glades Education Foundation, said, “It is our sincere hope that we can make a significant difference in the success of Glades County students by increasing graduation rates, entry into college or vocational school, and eventually see a positive impact on Glades County’s economy.” Each year, the Glades Education Foundation plans to add additional grades to the program, until grades 4-12 are receiving the program. 

About the Southwest Florida Community Foundation

The Southwest Florida Community Foundation, founded in 1976, cultivates regional change for the common good through collective leadership, social innovation and philanthropy to address the evolving community needs in Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades counties. Last year, the Foundation partnered with individuals, families and corporations who have created over 400 philanthropic funds.  Thanks to them, the foundation has invested $5 million this year in grants and programs to the community.  With assets of $93 million, the Community Foundation has provided more than $67 million in grants and scholarships to the communities it serves since inception. The Foundation is the backbone organization for the regional FutureMakers Coalition and Lee County’s Sustainability Plan.  Based in Fort Myers, the Foundation has satellite offices located in Sanibel Island, LaBelle (Hendry County), and downtown Fort Myers.  For more information, visit www.FloridaCommunity.com or call 239-274-5900.