Charities- Lee County

LEE COUNTY

A
Abuse Counseling and Treatment
Serves victims of domestic violence and their children, and survivors of sexual assault, in Lee, Hendry and Glades counties.
Executive Director: Jennifer L. Benton
(239) 939-2553 . P.O. Box 60401, Fort Myers, FL 33906 . www.actabuse.com . www.artsforactgallery.com
Mission Statement: Eliminate domestic and sexual violence.
Volunteer Opportunities: Hotline, counseling, fund raising, administration, thrift store (Second Act), Arts for ACT Fine Art gallery.
Signature Event: Arts for ACT, an annual fine arts auction and benefit . Aug. 26, 2006 . Harborside Event Center, Fort Myers . $75 . Chairs: Jennifer L. Benton, Dixie Lee McCollaum

Adonis Autism Center of Southwest Florida
Home in Estero for six adults with autism on an acre of land. Also provides a registry of traveling respite care providers.

Director: Bert Michaels

President: Beth Bashaw Cameron

P.O. Box 2134, Fort Myers, FL 33902

(239) 287-1126 or (239) 995-1794
Volunteer opportunities: Call for information.
Mission statement: Provide safe and nurturing homes where adults with autism can live, work and play.

AFCAAM Center
Focuses on the communication of values and education through a variety of programs.
Executive Director: Ismael Hernandez
(239) 461-0233 . 3681 Michigan Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33916 . www.afcaam.org
Mission Statement: Help people help themselves, and promote self-reliance and human dignity in the black community.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for information.
Signature Event: Verandah Golf Tournament, golf tournament sponsored by The Bonita Bay Group . April 1, 2006 . Verandah Country Club, Fort Myers . $150

Affordable Spay/Neuter of Lee County
Low-cost spay/neuter clinic for those with low incomes or on public assistance.
Executive Director: Theresa Ink
(239) 652-0596 . 13422 N. Cleveland Ave., North Fort Myers, FL 33903
Mission Statement: Provide a clinic for pet owners for whom costs at a full-service veterinarian are prohibitive.
Volunteer Opportunities: Assist with animals after surgery, public relations, fund raising.

The AIDS Resource Council of S.W. Florida (ARC)

Has provided healthcare to HIV-positive people in the greater Fort Myers area since 1995. Also offers counseling and testing, and a full range of assistance services.

Executive Director: Earl Givens Jr., RN.

(239) 278-4272 . 3677 Central Ave., Suite C, Fort Myers, FL 33901
www.arcsite.org

Mission statement: Provide medical treatment, medical research, encourage compassion, and meet the needs of HIV- positive patients, their families, friends and associates.

Volunteer opportunities: Call for information.

Alliance for the Arts
Art exhibitors, educational workshops and classes, concerts, theater and arts advocacy.
Executive Director: Louise Senneff
(239) 939-2787 . 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33919 . www.artinlee.org
Mission Statement: Facilitate and nurture the creation, development, promotion and education of arts and culture in Lee County.
Volunteer Opportunities: Events, reception, office work.
Signature Event: Art Royale, an evening of great food, music and interactive participatory art . Oct. 22, 2005 . Alliance for the Arts . $75 . Chair: Bruce Gora

Alvin A. Dubin Alzheimer's Resource Center
Information, support groups, lending library, education programs, safety program, individual assistance, newsletter and professional training.
Executive Director: Dotty St. Amand
(239) 437-3007 . 10051 McGregor Blvd., Suite 101, Fort Myers, FL 33919
www.alzheimersswfl.org
Mission Statement: Provide information, support and education to memory-impaired persons and their caregivers in Lee County.
Volunteer Opportunities: Bulk mail, office work, help with special events.
Signature Event: Sweet Memories Chocolate Gala, featuring desserts and hors d'oeuvres from local chefs, and silent and live auctions . April 2006 . Heritage Palms Golf and Country Club . $55 . Chair: Jamie Seneca

American Cancer Society, Lee
Community-based voluntary health organization that offers local cancer patients, their families and caregivers financial, emotional and physical support; provides funding research; and operates a 24-hour phone line and Web site-all with money raised through memorials and donations.
Executive Director: Sherri Nowlin
Associate Director: Christine Jennings
(239) 936-1113 . 4575 Via Royale, Suite 110, Fort Myers, FL 33919
www.cancer.org
Mission Statement: Eliminate cancer as a major health problem by advocating prevention, saving lives and diminishing suffering through research, education, advocacy and service.
Volunteer Opportunities: Volunteer in local office; run, organize, plan and build teams for events.
Signature Event: Lee County Cattle Barons' Ball, a western-themed gala with live and silent auctions, gaming and dancing . Jan. 28, 2006 . Tables start at $2,500 . Chairs: Cole Peacock, Mike McQuagge

American Heart Association
Local affiliate of national organization that aims to reduce coronary heart disease, stroke and risk of both 25 percent by 2010; fund raising, programs and related activities for education and research.
Executive Director: Michelle Schweber
(239) 498-9288 . 28441 Bonita Crossings Blvd., Bonita Springs, FL 34135
www.americanheart.org
Mission Statement: Reduce disability and death from cardiovascular disease and stroke.
Volunteer Opportunities: Heart Balls, Heart Walks, daily office duties.
Signature Events: Collier Heart Ball and Lee Heart Ball, both black-tie galas with auctions . Collier Heart Ball: February 2006; Registry Resort; $500; Chair: Scot Congress . Lee Heart Ball: Spring 2006; Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa; Chair: Helen Crumbie

American Lung Association
Educates, researches and advocates the prevention, treatment and cure of lung diseases.

Executive Director: Kurt Goerke
(239) 275-7577 . 12734 Kenwood Lane, Suite 25, Fort Myers, FL 33907
www.gulflung.org
Mission Statement: Promote lung health and the conquest of lung diseases through education, research and advocacy.
Volunteer Opportunities: Fund raising, educational program support, summer asthma camp volunteers.
Signature Event: Blow the Whistle on Asthma, a pledge event . May 1, 2006 . Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens

American Red Cross of Lee County
Volunteer humanitarian organization provides financial relief for victims of disaster; emergency communication and financial relief for U.S. military members and their families; first aid, CPR and other life-saving training to the public.
Executive Director: Heidi Ruster
(239) 278-3401 . 2516 Colonial Blvd., Suite 201, Fort Myers, FL 33907

www.arclee.org
Mission Statement: Provide relief to victims of disaster and help people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for information.
Signature Event: Humanitarian Evening of Honor, an annual dinner honoring local humanitarians . $125

ArtFest Fort Myers
Festival director, festival coordinator and large volunteer festival committee produce annual downtown art festival.
Executive Director: Sharon McAllister
(239) 768-3602 . 1400 Jackson St., Suite 104, Fort Myers, FL 33901
www.artfestfortmyers.com
Mission Statement: Create public access to a broad array of visual arts, support art in education through scholarships and more, and encourage art appreciation in Southwest Florida.
Volunteer Opportunities: Year-round leadership committee positions, sub-committees. Festival days: beverage sales, artist hospitality, youth art auctions.
Signature Event: The 33rd Annual ArtFest Fort Myers, an outdoor fine art festival featuring 195 artists from 35 states . Feb. 4-5, 2006 . Edwards Drive, Fort Myers

Art League of Bonita Springs
Provides a nurturing atmosphere to explore, appreciate and experience art. Visual and performing arts classes, exhibitions, lectures, and performances for residents of all ages.
Executive Director: Susan Bridges
(239) 495-8989 . 26100 Old 41 Road, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
www.artcenterbonita.org
Mission Statement: Enrich the culture of our diverse community by providing opportunities for artistic expression, education and appreciation in a supportive and nurturing environment.
Volunteer Opportunities: Regularly scheduled positions in the office, gift shop and library; event committees.
Signature Event: Beaux Arts Ball, a black-tie gala with silent and live auctions . Jan. 21, 2006 . Ritz-Carlton, Naples . Chair: Colleen Murphy

Art League of Fort Myers
One of 11 art leagues making up the Art Council of Southwest Florida. An all-volunteer organization that offers classes in various media and monthly art exhibits; awards a high school scholarship each year.
President: Tracy Cullimore
(239) 275-3970 . 1451 Monroe St.,
Fort Myers, FL 33902
www.artleagueoffortmyers.com
Mission Statement: Contribute to the cultural life of the Fort Myers community by promoting the appreciation, enjoyment and distribution of fine art in the area.
Volunteer Opportunities: Monthly art classes at the First United Methodist Church preschool.

B
Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum
Promotes research and displays shells and mollusks, with an emphasis on Southwest Florida and the Gulf of Mexico.
Executive Director: José H. Leal
(239) 395-2233 or (888) 679-6450 . P.O. Box 1580, Sanibel, FL 33957
www.shellmuseum.org
Mission Statement: Educate the public about shells and mollusks through exhibits, educational programs, library services and publications.
Volunteer Opportunities: Exhibit docents, education docents, museum store, outreach programs.
Signature Event: Under the Sea, a fund raiser held the day after the annual Sanibel Shell Show . March 5, 2006 . Sanibel Community Association . Chair: Anne Joffee

Barbara's Friends
Provides financial support to ensure children from across Southwest Florida have access to the finest possible care for cancer and serious blood disorders at the Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida through the Lee Memorial Health System Foundation.
Chairman: Frank Haskell
(239) 985-3550 . 9800 S. HealthPark Drive, Suite 210, Fort Myers, FL 33908
www.leememorial.org/foundation/barbaras_friends
Mission Statement: Provide continuing support of the Pediatric Oncology Program at the Children's Hospital.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for information.

Big Arts
Visual and performing arts center.
Executive Director: Elizabeth Fowler
(239) 395-0900 . 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, FL 33957 . www.bigarts.org
Mission Statement: Provide cultural programs of high quality to residents and visitors of Sanibel and Captiva islands.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for information.
Signature Event: Annual Benefit Concert featuring the Cab Calloway Orchestra and the Ink Spots . March 6, 2006 . Schein Hall, Sanibel . $135 and up . Chair: Shirley Jewell
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Florida
Systematically matches adult mentors to at-risk youth and supports relationships with professional case management.
CEO: Bo Pamplin
(239) 278-0003 . 1943 Maravilla Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901 . www.hereforthekids.org
Mission Statement: Help children reach their potential through professionally supported one-to-one relationships with measurable impact.
Volunteer Opportunities: Mentors, community board members, advisory committees, school programs.
Signature Event: Howl at the Moon

Bishop Verot High School
Forty-year-old Catholic high school serves 800 students, grades 9-12.
Director of Development: Kim Montgomery

(239) 274-6702 . 5598 Sunrise Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33919 . www.bvhs.org
Mission Statement: Challenge students to achieve intellectual, physical, social and spiritual growth as members of a Catholic community of faith.
Volunteer Opportunities: Event volunteers.
Signature Event: Moonlight Over Manhattan, a gala with dinner and silent and live auctions . Nov. 5, 2005 . Harborside Event Center, Fort Myers . $125 . Chairs: Ellen Kiddy, Jodie Klingensmith

Bonita Springs Assistance Office
Social service agency.
Executive Director: Lois Hollands
(239) 992-3034 . 10346 Pennsylvania Ave., Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Mission Statement: Provide emergency relief to lessen the impact of financial and personal crisis; help others recognize their capacity to help themselves.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for information.
Signature Event: Mardi Gras Charity Ball, a black-tie or costume gala with live and silent auctions . Feb. 4, 2006 . Pelican's Nest Golf Club, Bonita Springs . $125

Bonita Springs Community Foundation
Founded in 1997, provides a local source of aid for nonprofits in greater Bonita Springs.
President/CEO: Paul B. Flynn
(239) 274-5900 . 8260 College Parkway, Suite 101, Fort Myers, FL 33919
www.bonitacommfoundation.com
Mission Statement: Help Bonita Springs area charities through responsible giving.
Volunteer Opportunities: Assistance in reviewing grant requests.
Signature Event: Love of Bonita Dinner, an annual recognition of a local resident . Jan. 13, 2006 . Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa . $125 . Chair: Melanie Dehon

Bonita Springs Historical Society
Builds enthusiasm and shares historical knowledge about Bonita Springs; promotes historic preservation.
President: Xandra Pool
(239) 992-6997 . 27142 S. Riverside Drive, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
Mission Statement: Discover, procure, preserve and promote interest in the historical facts, artifacts, buildings and environs of Bonita Springs; raise funds for restoration and preservation.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for information.
Signature Event: Dinner Dance, featuring entertainment and an auction . $45 . Chairs: Wes Stillwaggon, Nikki Nichols

Bonita Springs YMCA
Membership organization offers summer camp, swim lessons, youth sports, health and fitness, teen leadership and other programs. Open to all regardless of sex, race, faith, ability or economic status; established in April 2005.
Executive Director: Debbie Metzger
(239) 992-9622 . 27200 Kent Road, Bonita Springs, FL 34135
www.ymcabonitasprings.org
Mission Statement: Put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body.
Volunteer Opportunities: Coach YMCA youth sports teams, read to children, serve on boards and committees.

Boys & Girls Club of Lee County
Offers programs in character and leadership development, education and career development, health and life skills, the arts, sports, fitness and recreation.
Executive Director: William Gunnin
(239) 334-1886 . 8359 Beacon Blvd., Suite 402, Fort Myers, FL 33907 . www.bgclc.net
Mission Statement: Inspire and enable all young people, especially from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.
Volunteer Opportunities: Administration, programs, special events.
Signature Event: Holiday Ham and Turkey Sale . November and December . Sam's Club, Fort Myers . $20 and up

C
Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium
Nature center and planetarium.
Executive Director: Sanders Lewallen
(239) 275-3435 . 3450 Ortiz Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33905 . www.calusanature.com
Mission Statement: Promote an under-standing of the natural systems of Southwest Florida, and earth and space sciences.
Volunteer Opportunities: Various, from animal care to clerical.

Candlelighters of Southwest Florida
More than 300 Southwest Florida children diagnosed with cancer or blood disorders and their family members are eligible to receive education and support as they cope with their diagnoses; services available at no cost.
Executive Director: Klair M. Snellbaker
(239) 432-2223 or (800) 738-3588 . 9981 S. HealthPark Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33908
www.candlelightersswfl.org
Mission Statement: Provide support, education and assistance to families who have a child diagnosed with cancer or blood disorders.
Volunteer Opportunities: Fund raising, office support, children's special events, health fairs.
Signature Event: Candlelighters 11th Annual Gold Ribbon Classic . Sept. 24, 2005 . The Bonita Bay Club . $150 . Chair: Bo Turbeville

Canterbury School
Pre-K through 12th grade private independent school.
Head of School: Mason Goss
(239) 481-4323 . 8141 College Parkway, Fort Myers, FL 33919
www.canterburyfortmyers.org
Mission Statement: Promote academic excellence within a caring and supportive community, with an emphasis on character, leadership and service.
Volunteer Opportunities: Sponsors and auction items.
Signature Event: Scholarship Extravaganza, a dinner, auction and dance with a Mardi Gras theme . March 11, 2006 . Murphy Sports Center, Canterbury School . $125 . Chair: Lou Ann Ozboyaci
Cape Coral Caring Center
Originated by Cape Coral Ministerial Association in 1990, includes food pantry and assistance with utilities and rent.
Executive Director: Fred J. Cull
(239) 549-7078 . 4645 SE 15th Ave., Cape Coral, FL 33904
Mission Statement: Maintain a suitable standard of living for citizens of Cape Coral.
Volunteer Opportunities: Intake interviewer, pantry coordination, receptionist.

Cape Coral Community Foundation
Public foundation that serves as an endowment for the community.
Executive Director: Judith V. McGruther
(239) 542-5594 . 4729 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral, FL 33904 . www.capecoralcf.org
Mission Statement: Provide a pool of philanthropy funds to meet charitable needs in the Cape Coral area and assist donors in making effective charitable gifts.
Volunteer Opportunities: Office help, special events.
Signature Event: Wine and Swine dinner, an elegant evening gala . Fall 2006

Cape Coral Historical Society
Two buildings with military exhibits, library, gift shop and more. Open Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, 1-4 p.m; closed July and August.
Curator: Anne C. Cull
(239) 772-7037 . 544 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral, FL 33915
www.capecoralhistoricalmuseum.org
Mission Statement: Preserve the history of Cape Coral and show exhibits to educate residents about the history of Cape Coral.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for information.

Center for Independent Living of Southwest Florida
Helps people with disabilities achieve independence in their lives, homes and places of work.
Executive Director: Ronald J. Muschong
(239) 277-1447 . 3626 Evans Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901 . www.cilfl.org
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for information.

Chabad Lubavitch
Outreach and educational organization that provides counseling to individuals and families.
Executive Director: Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz
(239) 433-7708 . 5620 Winkler Road, Fort Myers, FL 33919 . www.chabadswf.org
Mission Statement: Reach out to all Jews of Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties.
Volunteer Opportunities: Visiting the elderly, children's programs, holiday programs and fund-raising events.
Signature Event: Grand Founders Dinner, with a guest speaker and award presentation . March 2006 . Hilton Naples . $275

Child Care of Southwest Florida
Arranges and provides childcare services for low- and moderate-income families; offers training for childcare workers.
Executive Director: Rhea B. Mike
(239) 278-1002 . 4315 Metro Parkway, Suite 400, Fort Myers, FL 33916
www.ccswfl.org
Mission Statement: Initiate, coordinate, promote and provide high-quality child care through leadership, service and education for families and businesses in Southwest Florida.
Volunteer Opportunities: Chaperoning trips, sharing hobbies or skills, reading to children, making blankets for infants, repairing equipment, landscaping.
Signature Event: Caring for Children Auction . July 2006 . Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre

Children's Advocacy Center of Southwest Florida
A nonprofit agency that provides comprehensive multidisciplinary assessments to determine if abuse or neglect has occurred. Group and individual therapy is provided to victims of abuse or domestic violence; parenting classes for high-risk families.
CEO: Jill L. Turner
(239) 939-2808 . 3900 Broadway, Suite B1, Fort Myers, FL 33901
Mission Statement: Advocate for a healthy, safe community for children, through a multidisciplinary team approach.
Volunteer Opportunities: After-school program in Pine Manor, clerical opportunities at head office, fund raising, event planning.

Children's Home Society
Century-old agency dedicated to helping turn lives around from desperate situations to hopeful futures and reducing the incidence of child abuse and neglect.
Executive Director: Roseann Albertario
(239) 334-0222 . 1940 Maravilla Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901 . www.chsfl.org
Mission Statement: Embracing children, inspiring lives.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for information.
Signature Event: Child Advocate Awards Dinner . Nov. 19, 2005

Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW)
One of the nation's leading wildlife rehabilitation hospitals for tropical, native and migratory wildlife. Veterinary hospital provides medical care for 3,500 injured and orphaned wildlife patients every year.
Executive Director: Birgit Vertesch
(239) 472-3644 . P.O. Box 150, Sanibel, FL 33957 . www.crowclinic.org
Mission Statement: Rescue, care for, rehabilitate and release back to the wild sick, injured or orphaned wildlife; educate adults and children.
Volunteer Opportunities: Public speaking, cage cleaning, school programs, patient transportation, rescue and care, maintenance of grounds.
Signature Event: 26th Annual Taste of the Islands . Sanibel Community Park . $5

Community Foundation of Sanibel-Captiva
Founded in 2000 to provide a local source of aid for nonprofits in Sanibel and Captiva.
President/CEO: Paul B. Flynn
(239) 274-5900 . 8260 College Parkway, Suite 101, Fort Myers, FL 33919
www.sanibelcommunity.com
Mission Statement: Help Sanibel-Captiva area charities through responsible giving.
Volunteer Opportunities: Assistance in reviewing grant requests.
Signature Event: Bailey's Reception, a thank-you party for donors . Feb. 19, 2006 . Chair: Tom Uhler

CREW
Coordinates land acquisition, land management and public use of the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem.
Executive Director: Ellen Lindblad
(239) 657-2253 . 23998 Corkscrew Road, Estero, FL 33928 . www.crewtrust.org
Mission Statement: Preserve and provide stewardship of water resources and natural communities in and around the Corkscrew regional ecosystem.
Volunteer Opportunities: Trail guides, adopt-a-road, administrative assistance, tree planting, restoration.
Signature Event: Annual Golf Tournament

D
Deaf Services Center of Southwest Florida
Executive Director: Dawn Raymond
(239) 461-0334 . 1860 Boy Scout Drive, Unit 208, Fort Myers, FL 33907 . www.dsc.us
Mission Statement: Empower Southwest Florida's deaf and hard-of-hearing citizens and their families through education, advocacy and community involvement.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for information.

Developmentally Disabled Residential Corporation
Parents and professionals help special-needs citizens obtain a good quality of life, continuing education in functional skills and acceptance in the community.
President: Robert E. Glasgow
(239) 772-0501 . 1443 Del Prado Blvd. S., Suite D, Cape Coral, FL 33990
www.devdisrescorp.com
Mission Statement: Help developmentally disabled adults obtain affordable housing and support services.
Volunteer Opportunities: Clerical, assist at men's group home and women's group home.

Dr. Piper Center for Social Services
Oversees the Senior Aide Program, Foster Grandparent Program and Senior Companion Program.
Executive Director: Nida Fe Eluna
(239) 332-5346 . 1771 Evans Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901 . www.drpipercenter.org Mission Statement: Enhance the social and economic wellbeing of those 55 and older, and make a positive impact on the lives of frail elderly, at-risk youth and special needs children.
Volunteer Opportunities: Senior companion program and foster grandparent program, fashion show sponsorships, ticket sales.
Signature Event: Administrative Professional Day Luncheon and Fashion Show . April 26, 2006 . 11 a.m. . Royal Palm Yacht Club, Fort Myers . $30 . Chair: Sue Maxwell

E
Earth Shine Institute
Coordinates Charles A. and Anne Morrow Lindbergh events, including the Anne Morrow Lindbergh International Student Poetry Festival and Gift from the Sea 50th Anniversary Festival.
Chairman: Margaret Eiluned Morgan
(239) 334-2154, ext. 2119 . W. First St., Suite 300, Fort Myers, FL 33901
www.earthshineinstitute.com
Mission Statement: Present educational and cultural programs to further the vision of Charles A. and Anne Morrow Lindbergh.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for information.
Signature Event: The Lindbergh Symposium, an annual event exploring the life and legacy of the Lindberghs; focuses on achievements in aviation . Nov. 18, 2005 . Tween Waters Inn, Captiva Island . $75 . Chair: Margaret Eiluned Morgan

ECHO
Christian organization provides global hunger solutions through agriculture information, consultation and seeds. Free public tours.
Executive Director: Martin Price
(239) 543-3246 . 17391 Durrance Road, North Fort Myers, FL 33917
www.echonet.org
Mission Statement: Bring glory to God and a blessing to mankind by using science and technology to help the poor.
Volunteer Opportunities: Computer techs, farm workers, tour guides.
Signature Event: Travelogue Film Series, a travel and adventure film series with lunch buffet. Proceeds benefit ECHO and Lee's Habitat for Humanity . Jan. 23, Feb. 6 and 20, and March 20, 2006 . Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre

Eden Florida
Provides lifespan services for people with autism; active in Florida since 1996.
Executive Director: Vicki Isler
(239) 437-5335 . 13631 Learning Court, Fort Myers, FL 33919
Mission Statement: Provide lifespan services to persons with autism.
Volunteer Opportunities: Call for information.
Signature Event: Annual concert and gala . May 20, 2006 . Sugden Theatre, Naples

Edison & Ford Winter Estates
Encompasses 14 acres of historical botanical gardens, the winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, and Edison's museum and research laboratory.
CEO/President: Chris Tenne Pendleton
(239) 334-7419 . 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33901
www.edison-ford-estate.com
Mission Statement: Preserve and interpret the lives and work of Thomas Edison and his good friend Henry Ford.
Volunteer Opportunities: Museum docents, guides.
Signature Event: Edison & Ford Winter Estates Foundation Gala . November 2005 . Edison & Ford Winter Estates

Edison Sailing Center
Volunteer organization dedicated to teaching safe boating instruction and appreciation of marine resources to youth ages eight to 18.
Executive Directors: Ross Webb and Steve Olive
(239) 334-8414 . 2006 W. First St., Fort Myers, FL 33901
www.edisonsailingcenter.org
Mission Statement: Teach lifelong skills and safe boating to all youth in a natural setting.
Volunteer Opportunities: Boat repair, regatta support, race committee, summer assistant.
Signature Event: Annual campaign for donations, including boats and cars.

F
Faith in Action Caring for the Elderly of Southwest Florida
Assists the elderly falling through the cracks of the existing social service system; a program of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and part of a nationwide network of interfaith volunteer caregivers.
Executive Director: Maureen Oravec
(239) 936-4544 . 3595 Broadway Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901
Mission Statement: Help the frail elderly maintain their independence and dignity and improve their quality of life.
Volunteer Opportunities: Provide non-medical life-sustaining services, including transportation, grocery shopping, social visits, telephone calls. Youth volunteers needed for home repairs, yard work.
Signature Event: Fifth Annual Altruist of the Year Event, a banquet to honor a local philanthropist . January 2006 . Harborside Event Center, Fort Myers . $150 . Chairs: Tom and Dot Orthman, T. Wayne Miller, Sam Galloway Jr., John W. Sheppard

Florida Arts
Arts group based at the Florida Arts Cultural Center, now being restored.
Executive Director: Jim Griffith
(239) 823-3754 . P.O. Box 1562, Fort Myers, FL 33902
www.floridaartsculturalcenter.org
Mission Statement: Nurture excellence and innovation in the visual and performing arts through education, presentation and community outreach.
Signature Event: Flappers to '40s Gala, a costumed gala featuring an arts auction and jazz band . Nov. 5, 6-10 p.m. . Florida Arts Cultural Center, First Street, Fort Myers . Chairs: Nancy Humphrey, Debbie Riley

Florida Gulf Coast University Foundation
Encourages, solicits, receives and administers gifts for scientific, educational and charitable purposes, all for the advancement of the Florida Gulf Coast University.
Executive Director/Vice President for Advancement: Steve L. Magiera
(239) 590-1067 . 10501 FGCU Blvd. S., Fort Myers, FL 33965
www.fgcu.edu/foundation
Mission Statement: Support the educational mission of Florida Gulf Coast University.
Volunteer Opportunities: Event preparation, mass mailings, clerical assistance.
Signature Event: The President's Celebration, an evening of fine dining, pageantry and entertainment . Spring 2006

Florida Repertory Theatre
Seven-year-old regional quality theater headquartered at the historic Arcade in downtown Fort Myers.