Join us as we honor Dr. José M. Hernández, Astronaut, and son of migrant farmworkers, who worked beside his parents in the fields at age 6.

A trailblazer who overcame adversity to achieve his lifelong dream of becoming an astronaut and traveling into space. He has authored several books, including his autobiography “Reaching for the Stars,” and the children’s version “The Boy Who Touched the Stars.” He is also featured in the acclaimed biographical film “A Million Miles Away,” which was recently released through Amazon Prime.

Please save the date for what is sure to be a truly extraordinary evening! More information and a formal invitation are forthcoming. As in years past, this event WILL sell out quickly. If you have questions or would like more information, please call Mary Asta at (212) 750-5894.

In January of 2020, Mary Asta was making one of her regular trips to the farmworker’s housing camp to check-in on the families when she spotted a boy about 15 wandering around. “Who is that boy? Why isn’t he at school today?” she asked. She was curious because she was familiar with most of the school-age children, yet she didn’t know this young man. His name is Julio.

Mary approached Julio and introduced herself. He had heard of her, as so many of his friends attended the Gargiulo Education Center and would often talk about all the wonderful things she does for them. When she asked him about his studies, Mary came to find out he was NOT enrolled in 10th grade.  

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The Gargiulo Education Center is honored to be selected by the Mediterra 100+ Women Who Care as the recipient of a $14,500 grant to help support the work of the Center. For years, the women of Mediterra's 100+ Women Who Care have supported Gargiulo Education Center in many ways, with countless hours as caring volunteers as well as generous donations and contributions.

These children would not be where they are without your love and support, and for that the Center will be forever grateful. We are truly blessed!

Yudith is a 7th grader at North Naples Middle School who attends Gargiulo Education Center every day after school. Yudith faces some learning challenges, and as a student needs Exceptional Student Education (ESE). This is provided for children with disabilities who need specially designed instruction. She also has a specially designed Individual Education Plan (IEP). Yudith works hard on her schoolwork and finds academic tasks quite challenging. Nonetheless, she arrives at the Gargiulo Education Center each and every day eager to progress. Because of her challenges, she works harder than a number of the other students to accomplish the same academic goals. 

Recently, it was brought to our attention that Yudith did not have internet at home, making it nearly impossible to complete any of her school assignments outside of the Center.

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This beautiful 1st-grade student recently joined our Gargiulo Education Center. She came to the Center speaking no English and has been working hard with the help of our awesome teachers and volunteers to learn the English language.

Putting her new English skills to the test, she recently participated in a student interview, in which she presented information to the class about another classmate. The progress she has made is astonishing! Way to go Camilla!

Stop by and say hello! Volunteers are always needed and appreciated. The Center office is open M-F 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (Closed from 1-2 pm for lunch). The first children, the youngest, arrive around 3:30 pm at 1414 Rail Head Blvd, Naples, FL 34110.

Special evening or weekend appointments are available upon contact with the Executive Director at (239) 596-1975. Translation services are available.

Thank you to all our Generous Supporters. Please visit our website to learn more about all the wonderful people and organizations that provide their generous support to the children.

Please consider making a donation to the Center and help our programs thrive and grow. A donation to GEC is an investment in the future well-being of not only the aspiring children but our community as well. Please click on the button below to learn how to make a donation by either check or credit card.