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YOUTH CLASSES AT ARTS BONITA
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These classes are designed to spark imagination, build skills and foster confidence, providing hands-on opportunities for youth to discover their talents and express themselves. Join us at Arts Bonita and watch creativity flourish!
Don’t miss this chance to be part of something
How
by Douglas Halbert, MD,
Sophie and Sam. The twins from Naples will be turning 2 years old this month. Together, they love to take walks, read books, ride balance bikes, go down slides, spend time with family, dance to music, and wave to the neighbors’ dogs and puppies.
Cover photo by Monica Alvarez monicaalvarezphotography.com 305-815-3495 info@monicaalvarezphotography.com
Too
Andrea Stetson
by Andrea Stetson
Anna Snyder
February 1st 10:00AM - 1:00PM napleschamber.org/youth-business-fair/
Co-Publisher
Stacy Nicolau snicolau@neafamily.com
Co-Publisher Jane MacNealy jmacnealy@neafamily.com
Calendar & Newsletter Editor
Liani Belcher
Copy Editor
Leigh Ann Newman
Feature Writers
Andrea Stetson • Anna Snyder
Travel Editor
Karen T. Bartlett
P.O. Box 110656 Naples, FL 34108 239-370-5333 info@neafamily.com
Visit us online at neafamily.com
THIS MONTH
New Year
Why is it so hard to keep New Year's resolutions?
According to the Pew Research Center, nearly 30% of Americans made New Year's Resolutions in 2024. Why did the other 70% skip making resolutions or quit them altogether? Respondents to the study stated that they either forgot to make them or that their resolutions were too hard to keep.
In this issue, we have several easy ways to keep resolutions that can positively impact your life.
One particular article in the January issue, "Resolutions, Set, Goal! Strategies for Strengthening Your Family" by Healthcare Network, resonated with me. During our winter break ski vacation, our family easily achieved the goals of eating dinner together and going on adventures with each other because we were not busy with our regular lives and responsibilities. The third goal, however, stopped me in my tracks: "Intentionally acknowledge each other." Looking up from our work or phones to engage with each other at meals and when we walk into the room or leave home shows that we matter to one another.
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Editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all material contributed. We cannot be responsible for return of any unsolicited materials. Articles and advertisements in Neapolitan Family do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher nor does the publisher assume responsibility for statements made by our advertisers or editorial contributors. Acceptance of advertising by Neapolitan Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service that is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Neapolitan Family is available free of charge at distribution points throughout Collier County, as well as digitally at neafamily.com.
©2025 by Neapolitan Family Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.
For our family, the challenge is staying connected while our three kids are away at college. To stay engaged, we use school breaks and a family group chat. When everyone responds to the chat, it shows that we are invested in each other's lives. Other families face the huge challenge of balancing family time with after-school activities, sports, and homework. Something as simple as acknowledging each other goes a long way.
The January issue also includes strategies for improving physical and mental health from childhood to menopause, safety tips for biking, running, and walking, and information on how our schools ensure students get a nutritious breakfast and lunch.
We are also excited to announce that Neapolitan Family is turning 25 in 2025! Stay tuned and help us celebrate this milestone throughout the year.
Happy New Year!
Stacy
The Schoen Foundation Commits $2.5 Million to youth Haven Capital Campaign
The Schoen Foundation pledged $2.5 million to Youth Haven’s Building Hope for Tomorrow capital campaign. In addition, the Foundation generously donated $650,000 to support Youth Haven’s operational needs, bringing it's total 2024 support to nearly three times it's previous level of $250,000. This contribution comes at a pivotal time, as Youth Haven embarks on the most ambitious capital campaign in its 53-year history.
The Building Hope for Tomorrow campaign, chaired by Elizabeth Star, aims to raise $20 million to build, furnish, and maintain a new facility to replace the aging Telford Building. This structure has served as the primary hub for Youth Haven’s programs and services since its founding in 1972. As the only provider of emergency and residential shelter for abused, neglected, and homeless children and teens in
naMI Collier County receives $5,000 Grant
NAMI Collier County, Inc. received a $5,000 grant from the Collier Community Foundation. The funds will support the organization’s food pantry, which is available to all participants in NAMI’s mental health programming.
Beth Hatch, CEO of NAMI Collier County, explained: “People with mental illness disproportionately struggle to access healthy meals and other basic needs due to economic disenfranchisement, while facing food insecurity has been shown to increase the risk of experiencing mental illness by upwards of 200%, creating a vicious cycle. The generous funding from the Collier Community Foundation will allow us to continue to break this cycle for families and individuals in our county.”
The Collier Community Foundation awards annual grants through a competitive application and review process. Selected organizations receive grant dollars from the Foundation’s discretionary funds. These funds were given by donors who believe in the Community Foundation’s ability to mobilize resources to address the community’s greatest needs.
Visit www.namicollier.org for more information.
Collier County, Youth Haven’s 18-acre campus features five cottages that offer a safe, stable environment for youth to heal.
The new 22,000-square-foot facility will include:
• State-of-the-art classrooms
• Therapy rooms for counseling sessions and family reunification
• A dining area with indoor and outdoor seating
• A modern kitchen for preparing nutritious meals
• Spaces dedicated to art, music, and recreation
The facility will also feature a multipurpose room named for The Schoen Foundation, recognizing their deep and ongoing commitment to Youth Haven’s mission.
Visit www.youthhavenswfl.org for more information.
David Lawrence Centers receives $50,000 grant from the naples Woman’s Club
David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health, Collier County’s only comprehensive, not-for-profit behavioral health provider, was awarded a $50,000 grant from the Naples Woman’s Club.
“We are incredibly grateful for this generous grant from the Naples Woman’s Club, which will allow us to offer hope for more children, teens, and families throughout Collier County,” said Kimberly Dye, vice president of advancement at DLC. “Through our child-centered programs and services, children and teens with behavioral health issues have the opportunity to develop healthy coping skills and self-awareness, as well as reduce or eliminate self-harming behaviors. This funding will ensure families in our community have access to the tools and resources needed to improve their well-being, regardless of their ability to pay.”
Visit DLCenters.org to learn more.
able academy Students Give Back at Harry Chapin Food Bank
Some lessons cannot be learned in the classroom.
For Elizabeth Luzarraga, a student at Able Academy, being named shift leader during a volunteer day at Harry Chapin Food Bank meant learning how to lead by example, delegate responsibilities, communicate effectively, take accountability, and be organized.
“Our goal for our students is that when they leave our program, they will be productive citizens in our community,” said Colleen Cornwall, founder and CEO of Able Academy. “A huge part of our programming for students this age is to get them volunteering as soon as possible.”
The Naples-based private school serves students with special needs, including those with autism, Down syndrome, intellectual disabilities, and social anxieties. Three years ago, Able Academy began bringing groups of students to volunteer weekly at Harry Chapin Food Bank, a nonprofit fighting to end hunger. Through its network of more than 175 partners, the agency feeds 250,000 neighbors in Southwest Florida each month through distribu-
providing manpower to the nonprofit, though; the organization also is providing opportunities for students to learn life skills, which enhances students’ future employability.
“I really like packaging different kinds of vegetables,” said Luzarraga as she packed fresh, locally grown cucumbers and squash into mesh produce bags. “It’s like a new adventure here at Harry Chapin.”
Classmate Gabriel Hurtad said he enjoys packing produce, knowing the results of his hard work mean struggling families in Southwest Florida will have fresh vegetables to eat. “Volunteering makes me feel happy,” he said. “It’s important to help people who don’t have anything.”
Richard LeBer, president and CEO of Harry Chapin Food Bank, notes that Able Academy students aren’t just providing a service; they are learning about the hunger crisis in Southwest Florida while partnering with the nonprofit in its fight to end hunger.
“The teachable moment is that there are lots of opportunities to help one another and that there are plenty of people in our community who need help,” LeBer said. “It takes all of us pitching in through ways that can be big or small, but collectively that adds up, and helps us take care of thousands of people in our community.”
Visit
A key ingredient in Harry Chapin Food Bank’s quest to address food insecurity is volunteers. Able Academy students aren’t just
or call 239-334-7007.
SEND US YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS! Did your kids do something amazing? Is your organization hosting an event? Let us know, and you might see your news in print! Send photos and details to info@neafamily.com.
Volunteer, Elizabeth Luzarraga
Able Academy Volunteers
Resolutions, Set, Goal!
THIS y E ar, r ESOLVE TO ST r E n GTHE n yO ur Fa MILy
By Douglas Halbert, MD, FAAP
With the new year come the inevitable resolutions to guide behavior and choices over the next 365 days.
But studies show that only 9% of people who make resolutions wind up keeping them. Many quit within the first week; by the end of January, about 43% have given up.
Some of the reasons resolutions fail are because they are not specific, measurable, and realistic. It is also best if you have a way to keep yourself accountable.
Setting resolutions as a family helps ensure the new year’s goals are achievable. Involving children in setting those group goals helps ensure they will be willing to do the work.
With each resolution, make sure children understand why achieving the goal will be beneficial. For example, eating fruits and vegetables is good because they make bodies stronger.
To ensure successful family resolutions, parents should also resolve to set a good example. Seeing parents make positive choices will encourage kids to do the same.
To set up resolutions for success, ask children what they want to achieve and then break them down into smaller, short-term goals. For example, if the overall resolution is to eat more fruits and vegetables, the short-term goal might be to eat fruits or vegetables as an afternoon snack.
Resolutions can be as unique as your
family. The bonus? Setting goals and resolutions with children help build confidence, responsibility, teamwork, and habits, as well as excitement about possibilities for a new year.
Here are a few suggested goals for families in the new year.
1 CONNECT AND LEARN AT THE TABLE
Plan at least one family dinner together a week without screens. Eating together is more than just meals. Family meals help create stronger bonds and improve emotional and mental well-being, language skills, and diet quality. Short conversations will make the big, sometimes hard conversations easier. It is a time to
share triumphs and challenges of the day and practice gratitude.
If you are already living this healthy practice, focus on home-cooked and healthy meals, and involve the kids in planning, shopping, and preparing meals. The more kids are involved, the more you can teach them about healthy eating. Have the kids think of dishes, look up ingredients, check the cupboards, and make shopping lists.
When activities have your family away from home for meals, consider taking some time on the weekends together preparing healthy food for meals on the go.
2 PLAN REGULAR FAMILY TIME
Any time together, like family game night, an evening walk to the park, reading a book together, gardening, or other activities helps strengthen families.
Turning off screens on a regular basis to connect benefits everyone.
Plan a family adventure, which can be as simple as exploring the back yard or visiting the nature center or planetarium. Involve the family in suggesting and planning activities, for vacations.
Volunteer as a family, which helps to instill gratitude in children, which in turn increases emotions like joy and contentment while decreasing anxiety and depression.
with Dyslexia TO SUCCESS MY PATHWAY
Presented by
Educational Pathways Academy (EPA), a private school for students with dyslexia in Southwest Florida, is hosting a special event on January 9, 2025, in Estero, Florida.
Made possible by the generous support of The Community Foundation, this event will connect EPA high school students with community members who have firsthand experience with dyslexia.
Through a moderated discussion, participants will share personal stories of resilience, offering valuable insights into overcoming challenges and achieving success.
January 9, 2025 10:00 AM
Interested in Sharing Your Story?
Educational Pathways Academy - North Campus 23601 North Commons Drive, Estero, FL 34134
For more details or to share your story as a panelist, please contact Candace Johnson, Director of Advancement at johnson@educationalpathwaysacademy.com.
www.EducationalPathwaysAcademy.com
3
INTENTIONALLY ACKNOWLEDGE ONE ANOTHER
With the rise in social media, face-to-face interactions have declined, hindering the ability to read non-verbal cues, communicate, and function in real-life social situations.
Acknowledgment strengthens personal relationships, enhances emotional bonds, fosters trust, and encourages openness and understanding.
Start by resolving to warmly greet and say goodbye to family members. This means doing more than looking up from games, homework, books, and devices when family members come and go.
Strive to always say “please” and “thank you,” recognize accomplishments, and apologize for mistakes.
Building these habits at home can translate into successful social encounters at school, work, and in the community, while improving the overall atmosphere at home.
The beginning of a new year is a good time to set positive intentions for the family. You can start by asking, “Are there things you want to learn or to change this year?” Then remember that learning means being okay with mistakes, asking for help, and trying again. In time, resolutions can turn into healthy habits.
Dr. Douglas Halbert is a board-certified pediatrician and the director of population health at Healthcare Network. For more information visit HealthcareSWFL.org.
DLC GIVES FAMILIES A HEALTHY START TO THE NEW YEAR
The end of the year is often a busy time for families, fueled by holiday breaks and time with family and friends. However, the joy of the holiday season can quickly be overshadowed by the abrupt transition back to normalcy once children and young adults return to school in the new year.
While this new season often lends itself to a fresh start, it can also be a time of disappointment or post-holiday blues for children and families. At David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health, we frequently see the lasting effects of holiday strain for young people that can extend beyond the holiday season.
HELPING YOUR CHILD COPE WITH THE POST-HOLIDAY BLUES
It is important for caregivers to identify factors that can have a negative impact on their child’s wellbeing, such as social media, peer groups, sleep, or nutrition. Then, encourage your children to make changes to address any known challenges. This could mean eliminating social media usage, reducing screen time, and ensuring proper nutrition.
Caregivers are also encouraged to create a plan to help children ease back into their daily routine, while also recognizing the need to develop coping skills to use when a difficult day or problem arises. By embedding these practices into daily life, children and young adults learn coping strategies, mindfulness techniques, self-care, and ways to resolve conflicts appropriately.
These techniques aren’t just for youth. Caregivers can benefit as well, and are encouraged to participate in activities and healthy coping skills with the young people in their lives. This can include:
Offering emotional support
Engaging in family activities to counter isolation
Empathizing with their concerns in a nonjudgemental manner
Helping them ease back into a routine
Promoting and helping to guide
by Jessica Liria
healthy coping mechanisms
Setting New Year’s resolutions and goals for self-improvement
Reflecting on the previous year’s resolutions and accomplishments
BEYOND THE POST-HOLIDAY BLUES
The transition back to early mornings, homework, and afterschool activities may lead some young people to feel down after the holidays, but it’s also important to note that a variety of other factors may contribute to feelings of sadness. Identifying the root cause early can help set children up for a successful new year.
Factors that can impact your child’s overall health and wellness include loss and grief, strained family dynamics, financial hardships, substance use, and significant changes in routine. Youth often compare their holidays with others, facing the added pressure of feeling like they have to fit in with other young people, and if they don’t receive the same caliber of gifts, they can experience a sense of fear, worry, or embarrassment.
While these factors can cause emotional and behavioral challenges during the holiday season, it’s important for caregivers to understand the warning signs that could indicate these feelings are more than just the post-holiday blues.
Common warning signs to monitor include:
Experiencing fatigue or low energy
Changes in sleep patterns or eating habits
Increased irritability or difficulty managing emotions, such as increased crying or anger outbursts
Withdrawing from others or isolating themselves
Lack of enjoyment in activities or things they once enjoyed
Struggling to transition back to a regimented routine
Unhealthy coping mechanisms, such
The transition back to a normal routine following the holidays can lead to feelings of disappointment or the post-holiday blues. David Lawrence Centers offers a continuum of care for children, adolescents and their families seeking support for a variety of mental health, behavioral or substance use challenges.
as substance use, fighting or bullying, self-harm, or making high-risk decisions without regard for themselves or others
Indications of suicide, which is a warning sign or symptom at a crisis level and requires professional support
HOW DLC CAN HELP
DLC offers a continuum of care for children, adolescents, and their families seeking support for a variety of mental health, behavioral, or substance use challenges. These programs include individual or group therapy, community-based services, and an adolescent day program, where teams engage in high-level care with group, individual, and family sessions.
Additionally, the DLC prevention and education team facilitates youth mental health first aid, an evidence-based training program that equips everyone in the community with the skills they need to identify and address concerns related to behavioral health.
To learn more about the work DLC is doing to provide lifesaving and life-changing behavioral health care to those in need, visit DLCenters.org.
Jessica Liria, director of prevention and education services at David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health.
Opening Up About Menopause and Perimenopause
By Andrea Stetson
It is a topic that nobody wants to talk about: menopause and perimenopause. Mothers rarely talk to their daughters about it. Friends don’t bring it up in conversation.
Women have probably heard about symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats, but they might not think their dry skin, muscle aches, or weight gain is part of it. So many women suffer in silence, quietly trolling the Internet for answers or talking to a doctor who might just brush off their complaints.
But when Christina Shutter of Naples posted on Facebook about the horrendous symptoms she suffered from during perimenopause, women started replying, “Me too.”
The posts offered comradery and suggestions among strangers. It gave the long list of women posting the feeling that they were not alone.
“I am all about people talking about things,” Shutter stated. “We don’t talk about women’s health in general. Why is everyone struggling in silence? We are putting our feet down. There has to be a better way.”
Shutter began having hot flashes, weight gain, and mood swings at age 37. The average age of menopause is 52, and perimenopause can start about 8-10 years before that. Shutter went to her doctor, who prescribed an antidepressant.
“I took one dose, and it messed me up for three days,” Shutter described. “If your body doesn’t need that kind of medication, you should not take it for hot flashes. That tells us where we are at. It is just, ‘Give her an antidepressant, and it will help with hot flashes’.”
Her hot flashes increased. She never got more than three hours of sleep. Instead, she would wake up after a few hours
drenched in sweat. Exhausted, gaining weight, and having horrible mood swings, Shutter kept going to doctors and trying an array of medications.
“I made another appointment at a well-known women’s specialty group,” Shutter continued. The doctor told her that hormone replacement therapy was the only treatment. “I wanted to look at other avenues. All they want to do is write a prescription. There has to be alternative care. It was just a horrible experience.”
Hormonal changes due to menopause cause these physical and emotional changes. It happens in three stages.
Perimenopause is when the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen. It usually starts when you are in your 40s and can last several months or many years. Symptoms can be irregular periods, hot flashes, and mood swings.
Menopause is when you no longer have menstrual periods. Your ovaries don’t release eggs, and your body doesn’t produce much estrogen. Menopause is when you have gone 12 months without your period.
Postmenopause is the time after menopause that you stay in for the rest of your life. You can have mild symptoms for a few years and become more at risk for osteoporosis and heart disease due to low estrogen levels.
Shutter says she is now in the menopause phase and still having some terrible symptoms. She felt alone on this journey.
“I think that it is generational,” Shutter explained. “When I started going through all of this, I reached out to my mother. She grew up in a very strict Catholic home. She said ‘We don’t talk about that’. Menstrual health in general, is not talked about.”
Reaching out on Facebook made her feel less alone. Nicol Sargent was one of the people who responded, and she illustrated how symptoms can vary.
“I don’t have the hot flashes. I don’t have the night sweats,” Sargent said. “That is what everybody talks about. “Insomnia, joint pain, and shoulder pain – those are my big issues.” She shared Shutter’s complaint about doctors who just wanted to give her drugs.
“All the doctors wanted to do was throw narcotic-type drugs at me,” she described. “They worked for a few weeks and then stopped working. I had not had a good night’s sleep in nine years. A year and a half ago, I got my [medical marijuana] green card and got some marijuana gummies, and now I can sleep through the night, and it helps the joint pain.”
Other women responded on Facebook with similar stories.
“I feel like it was me writing this post,” wrote Lori Lefebvre. “Menopause affects my daily life in so many ways. The joint pain is so bad I can barely walk. I wish there were something that could help me.”
“I feel for you,” wrote Nicole Sotiropoulos. “I have no health insurance and am scared to do this alone, but the hot flashes have definitely started.”
The posts also offered suggestions on doctors and medications, pointing out some drugs work and some very knowledgeable doctors are in town.
Dr. Frances Romano of Shine Direct Primary Care in Bonita Springs and Naples is a certified menopause practitioner.
“Women have been struggling for a long time,” Romano began. “It is just so hard.”
Romano stresses education as part of the process. She wants her patients to understand what is going on in their bodies.
“I go through all the hormones and explain, ‘This is how you feel when your hormones are fine, and this is how you feel when your hormones are crappy’,” she described. “If you understand what is happening to your body, it will be a better transition into menopause.”
She pulls up charts and explains the cycles the body goes through and how that affects various symptoms. She orders blood tests just to make sure there is nothing else going on with the patient’s health. Then, she considers a variety of remedies to see which one best fits each patient.
“It is nutrition and exercise and hormone therapy,” she said. “Hormone therapy is very safe.”
Some patients take pills; others do better with a gel or spray.
“It is very customizable to what the patient needs,” Romano said. She explained that some patients just need estrogen, while others need estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.
Romano does not just focus on medication but also on diet and exercise.
“You have to take care of the person you are now, for your person in the future,” she stressed. “In your 30s, work for the person you are going to be in your 40s. In your 40s, work for the person you are going to be in your 50s.”
Romano said she has always been interested in women’s health. She has taken extensive courses and lectures about menopause and is certified by the Menopause Society.
“There are a lot of misconceptions about perimenopause and menopause, and there is a lot of suffering,” Romano said. “I believe menopause is part of taking care of a woman. We are always taught that we are so emotional. It makes us feel like we are crazy, and when I show these things to patients and say ‘This is why you feel this way’, they understand. Having a menstrual period is a super power, and we just need to use it to our advantage.”
For more information about the benefits and risks of hormone therapy, speak with your ob-gyn or visit acog.org.
Healthier, Delicious, and Kid-Approved
The New Face of Collier County Public School Cafeterias
By Andrea Stetson
ids love pizza and burgers while adults want them to eat healthier, so Collier County Public Schools has embarked down the path of compromise. They are infusing healthier ingredients into kid favorites. For example, cinnamon buns are made with whole grain flour. CCPS also is trying to lure more students into selecting fruits and vegetables.
Cafeteria workers from all CCPS elementary, middle, and high schools descended on Aubrey Rogers High School for a training day. They learned how to make healthy food more attractive to students.
“We put multiple varieties of fruit arranged like a rainbow,” said Elizabeth Alfaro, director of nutrition services. “We are going to be working on the aesthetics of the serving line. We already have pretty good food quality. Now we will have some garnishes to make it more visually appealing.”
Alfaro said they recently added new items, such as Asian selections and some new types
“Kids eat with their eyes,” said Cindy Edwards, cafeteria manager at Corkscrew Elementary and Middle Schools. “So we have a variety of fruits and vegetables, and you want to go out there and explain to them what they are eating. You give them chicken wings with egg rolls, new fruits and vegetables, waffles, and donut holes, all made with whole grains. You have to go out and promote your program.”
Edwards does that by dressing up in food-related costumes and going on the school news. She encourages
Cindy Edwards, cafeteria manager at Corkscrew Elementary and Middle School dresses up to make the cafeteria experience fun for students. Photo by Andrea Stetson.
students to try new foods by celebrating Chinese New Year, Cinco de Mayo, and other holidays representing different cultures and foods.
MILLIONS SERVED
“Kids eat with their eyes,” said Cindy Edwards, cafeteria manager at Corkscrew Elementary and Middle Schools.
Between the two schools, Edwards oversees the serving of 2,200 meals daily. Throughout Collier County, 5.3 million meals are served during the school year.
CCPS follows USDA guidelines. To research new possible menu items, the food is first tested at the district office and then with some children.
“If it gets 70% or higher acceptance rate, it goes to the schools,” Alfaro explained.
Alfaro said students’ favorites are pizza, chicken nuggets, and chicken sandwiches.
“Tangerine chicken and rice is huge at my school, and every Friday, we have pizza and fries,” Edwards said.
Some of the more popular items for breakfast are wholegrain cinnamon rolls, cheese-filled bread with marinara, and
breakfast pizza. Besides preparing and serving food, cafeteria staff want to educate students about eating well.
“I do love incentives,” Edwards said. “I give away gift cards and snack items. I get the kids involved and aware of what is going on. Kids want to make decisions, so they need to be informed. I am a big champion of school lunch.”
Collier County Public Schools employs about 300 cafeteria workers in its 58 schools, including 29 elementary, 10 middle, and eight high schools.
“I always had a love of food,” Edwards said. Working in the cafeteria “is the best thing I have ever done, and I feel that I have changed some lives along the way.”
All students can have breakfast for free. Parents who fill out a form showing financial need can get free lunch for their child.
“You can’t learn if you are hungry,” Alfaro said. “We really want to make an impact this year. We want them to come to breakfast and come to lunch. If we feed them, they do better every day.”
Cafeteria workers at Corkscrew Elementary and Middle Schools are ready to encourage students to eat healthy. Photo by Andrea Stetson.
Cafeteria workers from schools all over Collier County learn about healthy food choices for students. Photo by Andrea Stetson.
CLEAR VISION BRIGHT FUTURES
How CCPS Partnerships Are Helping Students See Success
By Jennifer Kupiec
Vision care is an essential part of ensuring the academic success and the overall well-being of children. While often overlooked, vision plays a crucial role in a child’s ability to read, learn, and thrive in school, which is why Collier County Public Schools is proud to recognize and celebrate its collaboration with several organizations to provide free vision services for students.
WE SEE yOu
Our “We See You” partnerships not only detect potential vision problems through mobile, on-site screenings, but they may also provide children in need with necessary exams, glasses, and more, giving students the gift of sight and helping them succeed in the classroom. For example, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and Florida Heiken Children’s Vision Program will provide comprehensive eye exams and prescription glasses at no cost to students who fail a vision screening. They also help students with advanced vision conditions get the vision care they need, such as surgery and long-term treatment – all free of charge thanks to the support of the Naples Children and Education Foundation.
“A lot of times the kids say, ‘Oh, I see great,’ and then you
find out later that they can’t see farther than their hands,” explained Dr. Bailey Peterson, an optometrist with Bascom Palmer and lead optometrist for the NCEF Vision Initiative in Collier County. “Our work is incredibly important for academic success as well as confidence for these kids. We look at the big picture. Great for academic success, of course, but also human development as well.”
Providing students with the proper tools to see clearly means they can engage in their lessons more effectively, participate fully in class activities, and approach their education with confidence.
“Not being able to see the board property, getting headaches any time they try to read – those things impact learning,” said Dr. Nathalie Findlater, an independent contractor with Florida Heiken Children’s Vision Program. “I’ve been working with Heiken for over a year now, and doing this has been really rewarding, especially providing free eye exams and glasses to students who don’t have access to them.”
Other partners include the Florida Department of Health – Collier County, Florida Lions Eye Clinic, Healthcare Network, and Naples Lions Club. Healthcare Network
specifically targets pre-k students enrolled in Head Start, while the Naples Lions Club provides CCPS students with vision vouchers for eye exams when parents have no eye insurance.
”We’re very fortunate here in Collier County to be able to partner with many different vision services,” said Beth Wipf, director of health services for CCPS. “They are able to come out so that the students get care right on site at the schools, and that saves parents from having to take them out of school to the appointment. They are able to get the care and everything they need right here on site.”
According to the American Optometric Association, 1 in 4 children have a vision problem, and many of these issues can be corrected with early intervention. Wipf added, “If you can’t see, it’s really going to be hard for you to learn so we want to make sure that we’re optimizing the student’s ability to learn to their fullest potential.”
Naples Park Elementary School kindergartner getting an eye exam.
FAMILY HOLIDAY FUN IN SWFL
MULTI-DATE EVENTS
49TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY NIGHTS CELEBRATION
Jan. 1-5, 5:30-9 p.m. Thousands of lights, hundreds of historic decorations, and a unique nightly experience.
Location: Edison and Ford Winter Estates, 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. www.edisonfordwinterestates.org.
MAGIC OF LIGHTS
Jan. 1-4, 6-9 p.m. A dazzling, drivethrough holiday lights experience featuring favorite holiday scenes and characters of the season.
Location: Paradise Coast Sports Complex, 3940 City Gate Blvd. N., Naples. www.magicoflights.com.
STORYTIME IN LAKES PARK
Jan. 2 & 16, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free storytime, music, crafts, and fun in the Children’s Garden.
Location: Lakes Park, 7330 Gladiolus Dr., Fort Myers. www.lakespark.org.
3RD ANNUAL VENEZIA RENAISSANCE FAIRE
Jan. 4-11 & 11-12, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Fire-eaters, dazzling acrobats, and mindbending magicians.
Location: 28001 Old 41 Rd., Bonita Springs. www.veneziarenaissancefaire.com.
NEW YEAR’S ART FAIR
Jan 4-5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Features original works by local, national, and international artists.
Location: Cambier Park, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples. www.naplesgov.com.
STORYTIME & MUSIC
Jan 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30, 10-11
a.m. An interactive lesson with singing, fingerplays, stories, and flannel boards.
Location: Estates Branch Library, 1266 Golden Gate Blvd. W., Naples. www.collierlibrary.org.
ALL STAR MONSTER TRUCK TOUR
Jan. 11-12, 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Stunts, massive trucks, and unforgettable moments for the whole family.
Location: Florida Sports Park, 8520 Rattlesnake Hammock Rd., Naples. www. allstarmonster.com.
21ST ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF THE BIRDS
Jan 16-20, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Celebrate with bird-themed activities and workshops. Location: Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, 300 Tower Rd., Naples. rookerybay.org.
GARDEN BROS NUCLEAR CIRCUS
Jan 15-20, A groundbreaking, fully immersive virtual reality experience. Location: Edison Mall, 4125 Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers www.gardenbrosnuclearcircus.com.
1 or 2 day options Ages 2– 4 year olds (by August 1st)
1 WEDNESDAY
HOLIDAY STROLL
5-9 p.m. The last day to see the holiday lights and stroll through the park to holiday music.
Location: Riverside Park, 10450 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs. www.cityofbonitasprings.org.
2 THURSDAY
LEGO CLUB
3-4:30 p.m. For ages 10 and older in the Young Adult Room.
Location: Headquarters Library, 2385 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples. www.collierlibrary.org.
MAKE AND TAKE
2 p.m. A free family workshop allows kids to make their own unique artworks using some of the styles and techniques from a featured exhibition at The Baker Museum. Location: Artis—Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. www.artisnaples.org.
3 FRIDAY
CIRCUS NIGHT
7 p.m. The Greatest Show! Mentalists, contortionists, and other incredible acts when the Florida Everblades play the Jacksonville Icemen.
Location: Hertz Arena , 11000 Everblades Pkwy., Estero. www.floridaeverblades.com.
CRAFT DAY
2-3 p.m. Crafts and activities, while supplies last.
Location: Immokalee Branch Library, 417 N. First St., Immokalee. www.collierlibrary.org.
GAMERS UNITE DAY: SUPER SCIENCE & AMAZING ART
9 a.m.-4 p.m. Play, code, and invent new games. Outside and inside games will include dodgeball, capture the flag, balloon volleyball, and new games.
Location: Fleischmann Park, 1600 Fleischmann Blvd., Naples. naplesgov.com.
4 SATURDAY
AVE FARMERS MARKET & LIVE MUSIC
9 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy this continually growing market.
Location: Ave Maria Town Center, 5080 Annunciation Cir. #101, Ave Maria. www.avemaria.com.
FREE ZOO DAY
9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Admission to the Naples Zoo is free for Collier County residents. Must provide an ID.
Location: Naples Zoo, 1590 GoodletteFrank Rd., Naples. www.napleszoo.org.
KIDS’ FISHING
10 a.m.-1 p.m. Catch and release fishing on the Bass Pro Lake.
Location: Bass Pro Shops, 10040 Gulf Center Dr., Fort Myers.
NATURE EXPLORERS: EXPERIMENTS
9-11 a.m. A drop-off program for children 5 to 11 years old.
Location: Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, 3450 Ortiz Ave., Fort Myers. www.calusanature.org.
9 THURSDAY
EVENING ON 5TH
6:30-9:30 p.m. Live musical performances, dining, shopping, and more. www.fifthavenuesouth.com.
TEEN SCENE: DIY SELF-CARE
6-7 p.m. Make your own bath bombs, shower steamers, and sugar scrubs. All materials supplied.
Location: South County Regional Library, 21100 Three Oaks Pkwy., Estero. www. leelibrary.librarymarket.com.
11 SATURDAY
MUSIC IN THE GARDEN
2-4 p.m. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy area musicians on the performance stage overlooking the Water Garden.
Location: Naples Botanical Gardens, 4820 Bayshore Dr., Naples. www.naplesgarden.org.
17 FRIDAY
KIDS NIGHT OUT
8:30 p.m. Games, activities, pizza, movies, and more.
Location: Donna Fiala Eagle Lakes Community Park, 11565 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples. www.collierparks.com.
18 SATURDAY
MEET ME AT THE CARNIVAL FAMILY DAY
11 a.m.-3 p.m. Classic carnival games like: Knock Down the Cans, Coke Bottle Ring Toss, Balloon Darts, Duck Pond, and more. Location: Collier County Government Center, 3331 Tamiami Tr. E., Naples. www.colliermuseums.com.
STAR WARS NIGHT
7 p.m. Florida Everblades’ fans are encouraged to dress as their favorite Star Wars characters
Location: Hertz Arena , 11000 Everblades Pkwy., Estero. www.floridaeverblades.com.
19 SUNDAY
16TH ANNUAL PETS ON THIRD 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Register to enter you and your pet in the pet parade.
Location: Third Street South, 1207 3rd St. S., Naples. thirdstreetsouth.com.
21 TUESDAY
MOVIES ON THE LAWN: FROZEN 6-8 p.m. Bring the kids to Mercato for an outdoor screening.
Location: Mercato, 9132 Strada Place, Naples. www.experiencemercato.com.
24 FRIDAY
MOVIE NIGHT UNDER THE STARS: WIND ACROSS THE EVERGLADES. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Enjoy this classic film under the stars.
Location: Museum of the Everglades, 105 Broadway Ave. W., Everglades City. www. colliermuseums.com.
25 SATURDAY
14TH ANNUAL CCPS STEAM EXPO
7:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Free. Fun, engaging activities to build knowledge about science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.
Location: Aubrey Rogers High School, 15100 Patriot Pl., Naples. www.collierschools.com.
17TH ANNUAL KIWANIS BUG CHASE 5K
8:30 a.m. All proceeds benefit the Fort Myers Metro-McGregor Kiwanis BUG (Bring Up Grades) program.
Location: Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, 3450 Ortiz Ave., Fort Myers. www.calusanature.org.
AVE SUNSHINE STATE STEAK COOKOFF
2-6:30 p.m. The Knights of Columbus’ 15th annual charity steak competition.
Location: Ave Maria Community Town Center, 5080 Annunciation Cr., Ave Maria. www.avemaria.com.
RUN FOR THE PAWS 5K
8-11 a.m. Help shelter animals by participating in Humane Society Naples’ 19th Annual 5K.
Location: Paradise Coast Sports Complex, 3890 City Gate Blvd. N., Naples. www.playparadisecoast.com.
TOUCH A TRUCK
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Kids can explore trucks, honk horns, open doors, and meet vehicle operators. Bounce houses, face painting, games, giveaways, art activities, and more.
Location: Saint Michael Lutheran School, 3599 Broadway, Fort Myers. www.smlcs.org.
SAFETY TIPS FOR BIKING, WALKING, AND RUNNING
Safety Tips for Children and Families
Naples is celebrated for its abundance of outdoor activities, but it falls short when protecting cyclists and pedestrians. The streets have become perilous for people who walk, bike and run. Distracted driving, speeding, and decreased awareness have resulted in numerous preventable crashes, fatalities, and injuries. With Collier County’s population continuing to explode, the problem is only growing. But there is hope and a plan.
Naples Pathways Coalition has been dedicated to transforming Collier County into a haven for pedestrians and cyclists for two decades by influencing funding allocations for sidewalks and bike lanes, introducing the vision for a cross-county trail system, participating in key greenway projects, and raising awareness of critical safety laws.
Walking or biking with your children is a great opportunity to teach them lifelong traffic safety skills. It’s important to know your child’s abilities and remember their limitations. Children under 10 years of age are developmentally limited when it comes to judging speed and distance accurately. While enjoying outdoor recreation with your children teach, practice, and remind them of these tips:
SAFETY TIPS FOR WALKING AND RUNNING
Use Designated Crosswalks
Always cross streets at marked crosswalks or intersections. Avoid crossing mid-block, especially on busy roads.
Be Visible
Wear bright, reflective clothing and accessories and carry a flashlight at night or in low-light conditions.
Stay Alert
Avoid distractions like texting or listening to loud music, especially when crossing streets.
Walk Left
Where sidewalks are unavailable, walk on the left side of the road facing oncoming traffic.
SAFETY TIPS FOR BIKING
Follow the Rules of the Road
Cyclists are considered vehicles in most jurisdictions. Obey traffic signals, signs, and lane markings.
Use Bike Lanes
Ride in designated bike lanes whenever possible. If they’re unavailable, stick to the right half of the right lane and ride with traffic flow. Ride on the right, and in designated bike lanes whenever possible.
Stay Visible
Equip your bike with front and rear lights, and wear bright or reflective clothing day or night.
Signal Your Intentions
Use hand signals to communicate with drivers and other road users when turning or stopping. Whenever possible, make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.
Wear a Helmet
Properly fit helmets reduce the risk of head injuries and can save lives in case of accidents. Helmets are required by law for children under 16 years of age.
THE SAFEST PLACE TO WALK, BIKE, AND RUN
Trails are the safest place to recreate, where users are surrounded by nature without the safety concerns of motor vehicles. Greenways provide healthy lifestyle options while allowing an outdoor escape from our hectic lives.
Because of increasing danger on our roads, Naples Pathways recognized the urgent need for a safe, multi-use pathway system in Collier County, modeled after the beloved Gordon River Greenway. In 2018, the organization introduced the vision for the Paradise Coast Trail, a 100+ mile trail that will be 10-12 feet wide, paved, and separated from the road. When complete, it will redefine Collier County’s quality of life, ensuring safety for children and families who walk, run, or bike.
Visit NaplesPathways.org.
A cycling family at NPC’s Naples Bike Brunch & Walk fundraiser.
Rising 7th grade through recent high school graduates
Auditions: March 26, 2025
Rehearsals: June 2-27, 2025, Monday-Friday, 9AM - 5PM
Performances: June 27-29, 2025
Adapted from the best-selling book The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan and featuring a thrilling original rock score, The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical is an action-packed mythical adventure “worthy of the gods” (Time Out New York).
SCAN HERE TO REGISTER
Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical JR.
Rising 3rd graders through recent high school graduates
Rehearsals: July 7-25, Monday-Friday, 9AM-4PM
Performances: July 25, 26 & 27
The children are rising up. Join the revolt in this Tony Award®winning hit! With its catchy songs and high-energy dance numbers, Matilda JR. offers a colorful cast of characters, giving performers of all ages the opportunity to shine in unique and exciting roles.
Broadway Bootcamp: Matilda JR.
Rising 1st through 2nd grade
Rehearsals: July 14-25, 2025, Mondays-Friday, 1PM-4PM
Performances: July 25, 26 & 27, 2025
Students will learn select music and choreography from our summer production of Matilda JR. and join the performance on the Moran Mainstage!
Scholarships for our programs are available through Kizzie’s Kids Scholarship Fund For more information, contact Director of Education, Steven Calakos at scalakos@gulfshoreplayhouse.org or 239.261.7529 ext. 207
SCAN HERE FOR AUDITION
The cast of Seussical JR.
Photo by Matthew Schipper.
HOW TO CHOOSE A MENTAL HEALTH THERAPIST FOR YOUR CHILD
by Lauren Donovan, MSW, LCSW, RPT™
Every therapist is unique and we all have different strengths. So how do you find the right fit for your child if they need a therapist? Here are three tips to consider and questions to ask a potential therapist.
1 AREA OF SPECIALTY
Question for the potential therapist: What is your specialty?
As much as they want to be, therapists are not capable of treating every diagnosis and mental health challenge that exists. For example, providing therapy to children is much different than providing therapy to adults. Treating ADHD is much different than treating complex trauma, for example. Each requires different levels of training and experience. If you are trying to find a therapist for your child, it is important that they specialize in working with children. There is also a difference between providing play therapy and being a Registered Play Therapist™. Becoming an RPT™ requires significant training, education, and supervision above and beyond the typical mental health licensure process. It is impor
stand in what ways the potential therapist is qualified to help your child.
2 CREDENTIALS
Question: What are your credentials? Therapists have all sorts of letters after their name, which can become confusing. To break it down here is what they mean:
RCSWI, RMHCI, RMFTI – these designations mean the person achieved their master’s degree in a mental health field and is a Registered Intern working towards licensure, which in Florida is a minimum of two years and requires a specific amount of client contact hours and supervision with a qualified supervisor.
LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor), LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist) – these designations mean the person is at least two years past their master’s degree and has met the requirements stated above to become a licensed mental health professional in Florida.
Additional designations: If there are additional initials after someone’s licensure initials it most likely means that the person has additional credentials from an outside organization. For example, RPT™ stands for Registered Play Therapist and is a credential
that is offered through the Association for Play Therapy.
3 THERAPEUTIC APPROACH
Question: What is your therapeutic approach with clients?
This is important. Every therapist has a different therapeutic approach. Some therapists take a more behavioral approach, meaning they are focusing on behavior change within your child. Some therapists take a more relational approach, meaning they focus on the therapeutic relationship as the change agent. Therapists also use different theories to guide their work, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Psychoanalytic, Person-Centered. There are too many theories to list here. But understanding what approach the prospective therapist uses will help you to determine if they are a good fit for your child. I tell parents all the time, you know your child best and will know when you find the right therapist for them.
INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE?
Connected Path Counseling www.connectedpathcounseling.com
• Clothing (newborn to size 16), toys, baby furniture, equipment, and more.
• We pay cash on the spot.
• No appointment necessary; clothes must be freshly laundered and brought in a plastic container. 13560 Tamiami Trail N. #4, Naples 239-596-6096
Join the Neapolitan Family Baby Club
Are you expecting a baby, or are you the parent of a newborn through 24 months old? Our new Baby Club is for you! You’ll receive offers from local businesses and organizations when you join the baby club. Plus, you’ll receive monthly newsletter with important info for parents of babies.
Fostering Family Unity
What if Becoming a Foster Parent Traumatizes My Bio Kids?
By Anna Snyder
We’ve officially navigated our first foster care placement! For those who missed my first two articles (in November and December 2024 issues of Neapolitan Family), my husband and I, with the enthusiastic support of our 10-year-old daughter, recently became a licensed foster care family through
One More Child, a Christian licensing agency in Southwest Florida.
It took some time to receive our first placement. Our licensing agency strongly advised starting with a respite care request rather than a “permanent” placement. When foster families decide to travel for more than 48 hours, and depending on the circumstances, the state requires respite care for foster children in their home. Foster children, in this case, must stay with a licensed foster care family. So, for eight days over Thanksgiving break, we welcomed two siblings (a 3-year-old girl and a 1-year-old boy) into our home while their foster parents traveled out of the country.
We loved them, cuddled with them, took them to church, fed them (they ate A LOT), and enjoyed spending our Thanksgiving break with them, including lots of time with family and
friends. Though we tried to maintain their established routine, they woke up in the middle of the night and navigated a lot of new situations. They were so sweet – and yet, they were typical toddlers. I can’t imagine what they must have been experiencing in temporarily joining a family of complete strangers.
For our daughter Winnie, the experience was challenging, tiring, and frustrating. She grew a lot and experienced many of the struggles inherent in having younger siblings. Instead of starting slowly, though, with one newborn baby at a time, she abruptly met, carried, supported, loved, and interacted with two toddlers. The act of welcoming two tiny humans served as a jolt to her system, disrupting her routine and jarring her Thanksgiving break
expectations. (“It wasn’t a break for me,” she asked me to add.) She went so far as to request that our next scheduled respite placement be our last.
I wondered if other foster families shared this struggle – I wondered exactly how becoming a foster family and routinely welcoming non-related children into our home might impact my child long-term. From everything we had researched and learned, we expected that becoming a foster family would be a very positive experience for our daughter, if we continued to accept placements younger than her. And long term, I believe that will be the case. Challenges and difficulty lead to growth, but it is relatively hard to watch it play out in the life of my daughter. Why do I so often try to protect and shield Winnie from struggle?
KAITLIN DECIUS
I sought the perspective of Kaitlin Decius, a Naples mom of five whose family fostered while she was a child. Interestingly, she and her husband completed the same foster care licensing class through One More Child as we did (which is how I found out her family fostered when she was a kid).
Katilin shared that her family began helping kids in need from her church when she 12 years old, which eventually prompted her parents to proceed with home studies, foster care classes, and court-approved guardianship. “Our parents ensured before ever saying yes to a child that we were all on the same page and in complete agreement; fostering allowed us to learn greater compassion for people, learning that some have been through so much that it was hard,” Kaitlin said.
I asked her what was difficult about being a part of a foster family. “It was challenging to share our home and our parents’ time. I didn’t always
know exactly what was happening in detail. Our parents protected us from hard truths. I didn’t understand how parents could hurt their children – that drove me to love harder and to become more patient, understanding, and empathetic. Because my family fostered children while I was a child, my love and compassion for children grew. I continue to desire to help those in need, even after getting married and starting my own family.”
Kaitlin discussed the long-term effects of being a bio child in a foster care home. “Because my family fostered growing up, I developed a passion to mentor young girls in college and beyond. I sought to learn all I could about what kind of love they needed. Becoming licensed as a foster family was always a part of mine and my husband’s plan for our family.” The process of fostering while Kaitlin grew up gave her a heart for foster/adoption. “The more children we bring into our home, the more God gives us to love. It is truly an honor and blessing to my husband, our five boys, and me to have this incredible opportunity to show love and provide a safe home for children in our community.”
MELISSA ROUNDS
I sought some insight from another friend who became a foster family in May 2020. For the Rounds family, fostering brought an initial burst of excitement followed by significant challenges. “Our three boys (ages 9, 6, and 3 at the time) were so helpful, but our first placements were rough. They were back in the child welfare system after and were severely neglected and developmentally delayed. Because it was the beginning of [the pandemic], we found it almost impossible to … have them assessed for delays. We were not trained as a special needs foster home, and we felt like we were drowning. We knew we had to
protect our kids, and that we were not able to be what our foster kids needed.” After that first placement, Melissa and her husband, Ben, decided to provide respite care and welcomed several foster children into their home for temporary periods of time. And in September 2023, the Rounds family adopted 3-year-old Mavis out of foster care.
I asked Melissa if she saw changes in her boys. “I watched my rough and tumble boys learn compassion, understanding, and kindness because of foster care. They learned that not everyone has an easy childhood, and that we must protect those who can’t stand up for themselves. They also learned that things are not always fair and easy. Doing hard things makes us stronger. It also knitted our family closer together. Having girls in our house made our boys gentler. They played differently with them, treated them with more respect than they usually showed one another, and became more helpful.”
Melissa gave some insight into the long-term effects of fostering on her boys. “My kids understand other children who are differently abled. They have great compassion for those who are hurting and experiencing struggle; they understand that there is often a lot going on behind the scenes that we can’t see.”
OUR PATH FORWARD
And so, I’m pleased to say that we’re going to stay the course –walking through this fruitful and beautiful challenge together as a family. I hope you’ll continue to follow along – and maybe even consider joining us!
Neapolitan Family contributing writer Anna Snyder is sharing her family's foster parenting journey. To see the first two installments in this series, go to neafamily.com.
SOLE PURPOSE
Teen Scout Transforms Laces of Love with Functional and Stylish Sorting Tables
By Andrea Stetson
Bo Warnken has been volunteering at Laces of Love in Naples for more than three years, but she didn’t think that sorting and tagging sneakers was enough. She wanted to make more of an impact. That’s why the 16-year-old decided to build an elaborate sorting table for her Eagle Scout project.
“I just wanted to be part of it [Laces of Love] because it is a really cool organization,” Bo explained.
When Bo learned that shoes were being tagged on little tables or the floor of founder Jeanne Nealon’s home, she decided to raise the money to buy supplies and help build the table.
“With everything it took about a year,” Bo said.
Bo secured donations to pay for the supplies from the Home Depot Foundation and Remodeling Contractors, which is her scoutmaster’s company.
“The actual build took place over two days, and two more days for painting and refinishing,” Bo described. “The resin was the hardest part. We had to use a blow torch to blow out the bubbles.”
Bo recently delivered two tables measuring 8 feet wide by 12 feet long. Each table is on wheels so they can be
easily moved together to make one huge work surface. There are drawers under the shiny table top for tags and other supplies.
“This is over the top,” said Nealon. “These are more than I ever imagined. They are so sturdy. This is exactly what we wanted.”
Carey Brisson, a Laces of Love volunteer and member of the board of directors, says Bo has been a volunteer with a lot of initiative.
“She started just tagging shoes in 8th grade,” Brisson said. “Then she asked to make tags, and she has continued to do that. I could not give her enough shoes to tag. She was constantly tagging.” Brisson also noted that Bo launched a Laces of Love Club at Barron Collier High School.
a PrOuD SCOuT
Bo was wearing her full Boy Scout uniform when she delivered the tables. She said she is proud to be a scout and excited to earn her Eagle Scout honor.
“My brothers were scouts and I thought it was super cool. They were doing archery and swimming and kayaking and I was jealous and wanted to be like them,” Bo said when asked why she wanted to join Boy Scouts. “My mom signed me up for one of their summer camps in North Carolina and I had the best time of my life.”
That led her to becoming a Boy Scout and going through all the challenges of earning badges and eventually securing Eagle Scout status. The Eagle Scout honor won’t be the end for Bo’s volunteering.
“I will continue volunteering for Laces of Love and the club at school,” Bo said. “I think lots of people would love to volunteer for this organization, but they don’t know about it. So I am just trying to spread the word.”
BO KnOWS SHOES
Nealon loves seeing youngsters with a passion about her volunteer organization.
“Bo knows shoes,” Nealon said. “She understands the importance of why kids in this area need shoes.”
Nealon and her band of volunteers are now using the tables for all their sorting, labeling, and packing to bring shoes to children in need.
“The tables are fabulous,” Nealon exclaimed. “They make our jobs so much more efficient and we can get so much done.”
Laces of Love has distributed more than 300,000 shoes to children in Southwest Florida since it began in 2005.
After Bo Warnken delivered the table that she built, she gave it one more polish so it would be perfectly shiny and ready for Laces of Love to use to sort shoes. Photo by Andrea Stetson.
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