“Southwest Florida Nonprofit Leadership Spotlight”

We spotlight and elevate leaders like Dawn Montecalvo, CEO of Guadalupe Center—ensuring their leadership, teams, and life’s work are recognized, celebrated, and remembered where it truly counts.

Chosen by those who matter most. Dawn Montecalvo, President & CEO of Guadalupe Center—alongside her dedicated staff, volunteers, and board—has been named Children’s Charity of the Year by a powerful network of 100 major donors across Southwest Florida, in partnership with the Charitable Community Foundation and Donors Choose.

Some leaders don’t just serve a community — they help shape its future.

Today, Charitable Community Foundation (formerly Cape Coral Community Foundation) proudly recognizes Dawn Montecalvo as one of the Top 30 CEOs in Southwest Florida — a leader whose vision and commitment continue to transform lives across our region.

Under her leadership, the team at Guadalupe Center recently achieved something extraordinary:

• $2.2 million raised in ONE for the Kids
• Expanding opportunities for children and families
• Strengthening the future of our community

This is what leadership looks like.

At Charitable Community Foundation, we exist for one purpose:

• To publicly elevate the nonprofit leaders behind the impact.

Because behind every life changed, every child supported, and every community strengthened — there is a leader who made it happen.

Join us in congratulating Dawn Montecalvo and her entire team for their leadership, dedication, and impact.



Your work matters. Your leadership is seen.

Programs don’t change communities—recognized leaders do. We elevate the few driving real impact.

"Charitable Community Foundation Launches Fellowship to Elevate Region’s Most Influential Nonprofit Leaders"

We elevate your life’s work so it’s seen, honored, and remembered for generations.

The Charitable Community Foundation today announced the launch of its inaugural Fellowship, a selective initiative designed to identify and elevate the most promising nonprofit leaders across the region.

Unlike traditional funding models, the Fellowship shifts focus from programs to people—recognizing leadership, influence, and future impact. Each year, a small cohort of leaders will be nominated and selected for their ability to drive meaningful changes and shape the direction of their communities.

Fellows will receive formal designation, public recognition, and access to exclusive gatherings with civic leaders, donors, and fellow changemakers. The program also includes a catalytic investment to support each Fellow’s continued leadership.

“Strong organizations are built by exceptional leaders,” said Michael Chatman, President & CEO, Charitable Community Foundation. “This Fellowship is about recognizing those individuals and amplifying their voice, visibility, and influence.”

The Foundation will announce its first class of Fellows in August 2026.