Smuggler’s Cove raises over $250,000 in support of Pathways Early Education Center of Immokalee

Pathways Early Education Center of Immokalee (Pathways) partnered with Quail West residents early in March to host Smuggler’s Cove, a pirate-themed cocktail party in support of Immokalee’s future leaders.

More than 250 philanthropic pirates celebrated Pathways’ achievements in engaging its 125 students and their families in a nationally recognized, hands-on, language-rich curriculum. Entering its 58th year serving some of the most at-risk children in our community, Pathways Early Education Center of Immokalee has strived to continue growing and serving its families – despite setbacks of the COVID-19 pandemic. With limited capacities, increased operational expenses, and reduced fundraising events, the school led the charge to reach more children in-need with a cutting-edge virtual pre-kindergarten program and virtual mentoring.

As a leader in NCEF’s Early Learning Initiative, Pathways collaborates with other nonprofits to implement groundbreaking programs that close education gaps by delivering high-quality Early Learning programs. Through its decades of service, thousands of children have passed through Pathways’ doors to achieve success in school and careers, breaking the cycle of poverty that impacts over half of the families in Immokalee.

However, the waiting list for a child to enter the school can be a year or longer. More than 500 children are currently waiting to gain access to the language-rich and supportive environment, where they will be prepared for kindergarten and a lifetime of learning. Pathways’ goal is to ensure all the students have surpassed their initial developmental delays and have a 100% of the students prepared for when they enter kindergarten. Parents and caregivers are involved throughout their child’s learning in order for them to become their child’s self-confident parent advocate for years to come. For more information, visit www.PathwaysEarlyEducation.org.