Junior Women of Initiative

The Junior Women of Initiative Program empowers and inspires middle school girls, especially those facing limited options and intergenerational poverty.

About the Program

The Junior Women of Initiative (JWOI) program is an initiative by the Boys and Girls Club of Collier County, supported by the Women’s Foundation of Collier County. The program brings together experienced community women from the Women’s Foundation with the shared objective of inspiring confidence, character, and leadership in the next generation of at-risk girls.

What the Program offers:
  • Skill Development: The program focuses on helping middle school girls develop self-esteem, etiquette, confidence, personal awareness, tools for job interviews, and vital life skills necessary for their future success.
  • Mentorship: Thirty to forty women sign up as mentors, dedicating their time, experiences, and knowledge to assist the growth of mentees, helping them become responsible and caring citizens by touching on relevant topics of today’s teens. Each mentor commits to at least 5 sessions.

Immokalee Foundation Pathways Program

The Immokalee Foundation is a non-profit organization that has been dedicated for nearly 32 years to preparing the next generation of leaders through education, career readiness, and professional development for students in Immokalee, Florida.

About the Program

The Foundation’s Career Pathways Middle School Program guides students towards in-demand careers in areas like Engineering, Healthcare, and Business. Students choose a “Career Pathway” and receive tailored support throughout high school.

What the Program offers:
  • Career Exploration: Students explore various employment sectors and choose a “Career Pathway” that aligns with their interests and the regional job market.
  • Guided Planning: The Foundation staff helps students plan their high school education, ensuring they receive necessary training and internships for postsecondary programs and career success.

The Impact

The Women’s Foundation is making a tangible difference by mentoring these young women, helping them build self-esteem, confidence, and personal awareness, essential for breaking the cycle of poverty and ensuring a brighter future.

JWOI Achievements

  • The Women’s Foundation of Collier County has been mentoring young women in middle school at the Boys & Girls Club of Collier County for over 15 years through the JWOI program.
  • The program has seen significant growth and impact over the decade, successfully connecting women mentors with young women.
  • Since it began, more than 180 young ladies have graduated from JWOI,w ith some earning scholarships for higher education.
two women at a full conference smiling
Engineering and construction management Career Panel speakers with an Immokalee Foundation middle school student

Immokalee Foundation Pathways Program

  • Focus on Female Students: The grant specifically supports highly motivated female students in the program.
  • Diverse Career Pathways: The program offers a broad curriculum, allowing students to explore various careers including Engineering, Healthcare, Education, and Business.
  • 100% Focus on Education: The Immokalee Foundation is dedicated entirely to education, career readiness, and professional development from kindergarten through postsecondary education.

The Commitment

Mentorship serves as a positive reminder that they are not alone and gives them access to positive, caring adults who are willing to meet them where they are. Research shares that mentorship is very effective. Young girls who are in mentoring programs are likely to earn better grades, less likely to skip school, more likely to participate in extracurricular activities, improved behavior, and have stronger relationships with parents, teachers, and peers.

Make a Difference

Be a part of this transformative journey. Your charitable gift to the Women’s Foundation of Collier County can help make a significant difference in the lives of women and girls in Collier County.

Contact us to learn more about how you can contribute to this life-changing program.

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