Grace Place, a women-founded and women-led family literacy nonprofit, has been transforming lives in Golden Gate City for 20 years. Under the leadership of CEO Lära Fisher, Grace Place serves over 1,300 students in this community, made up of hardworking, low-income immigrant families living at or below the poverty level. Grace Place is dedicated to providing pathways out of poverty through free, high-quality educational programs for all ages.
Two decades ago, Diane Ponton, chief learning officer, created the Bright Beginnings program, which has since evolved into a nationally recognized family literacy initiative that prepares children for kindergarten and enhances parents’ education through English and child development classes. Ponton also oversees the Adult Education program, which offers classes in English, financial and digital literacy, and citizenship preparation.
Marcie Curry, chief program officer, oversees school-age programs that provide crucial after-school academic support, helping students successfully graduate high school. The College and Career Readiness program equips high schoolers for the future with mentoring, internships, college visits, and scholarships.
As it marks its twentieth anniversary, Grace Place remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering families through education, ensuring that every generation in the community has the tools to thrive and build a brighter future.
4300 21st Ave., S.W.
Naples, FL 34116
239-255-7220
graceplacenaples.org
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