This past weekend Sister Mary (aka Ms. Mary), the GEC staff, and students had their traditional Halloween Trunk or Treat visit with the memory care residents at the Opal Memory Care Center, Naples.

The students were so excited to give those in need hugs, and love, as well as painted pumpkins again after being prohibited from giving hugs last year due to COVID. The kids know how important this is to the folks at the Center, since many residents don’t have family or visitors.

Residents were “over the moon” excited to have these special visitors help put the “Happy” back in Halloween.

Thank God GEC and families were blessed during hurricane Ian with little damage. The students needed to release their emotions and repay their blessings to those not as fortunate as themselves.

As part of the S.M.A.R.T. Building Emotional Intelligence Program they partnered with multiple organizations to assist in recovery efforts.

Connie Cahill was a longtime friend to GEC as well as a generous supporter of the rewards store.

When the children learned she was diagnosed with terminal cancer as well as suffered serious damage to her property during the Hurricane, students and staff joined forces to pitch in with repairs. The children also made beautiful cards for her recent birthday. A heartfelt effort that made her so happy.

They were saddened to learn she peacefully passed away last week and were grateful to have had the chance to make her smile once more. Even now, the children are preparing to sing at her memorial.

Our condolences go out to her family and loved ones.

Thanks to the S.M.A.R.T. Building Emotional Intelligance Program and the leadership skills learned within the EAP program, these kids exceeded all expectations and took medals for their outstanding efforts at the Cal Ripkin Baseball Camp in Maryland. Read more . . . 

This seemingly small experience left HUGE impacts on these children. None of this would be possible without the funding the S.M.A.R.T. and EAP Programs the center receives from the Naples Children and Education Foundation and the NCEF partner organizations.

GEC friends Michelle & Steven Karlikrecently donated a 2008 Ford Edge to the center. Although the vehicle is in great shape, the SUV needed some tweaks on the AC. This gave us the perfect opportunity to have our alumni Juan and Elver do the work on this car at Lorenzo Walker Technical College as part of their two-year Automotive Technology Program.  Read More . . .

Recently the mobile UF School of Dentistry funded in partnership by NCEF paid the center a visit- the first of many-to provide dental exams, fluoride treatment, and cleanings for over 40 children including GEC students and their siblings. Our youngest patient was 2! It's great to get a jumpstart on good dental hygiene and will work in tandem with our Harry John Dental Fund and the support of Vanderbilt Country Club.