The Immokalee Foundation is pleased to announce that its Career Pathways: Building Florida’s Workforce initiative has received a $350,000 state appropriation in Florida’s Fiscal Year 2026–2027 budget to expand its nationally recognized workforce development model.
The funding was championed by State Senator Kathleen Passidomo and State Representative Lauren Melo as part of the state budget approved by the Florida Legislature and signed by Governor Ron DeSantis. The funding will strengthen The Immokalee Foundation’s efforts to prepare students for high-demand careers while helping meet Southwest Florida’s growing workforce needs.
“The Immokalee Foundation changes lives and the numbers prove it,” said Senator Passidomo. “These are young people from our community who deserve every opportunity to build a future in Southwest Florida and can now make that a reality. I am proud to have fought for this investment and grateful to my colleagues in the Florida Legislature and Governor Ron DeSantis for supporting the students and families of this region.”
“I’m grateful to have worked alongside Senator Kathleen Passidomo to secure this $350,000 appropriation for The Immokalee Foundation’s Career Pathways initiative,” said Rep. Lauren Melo. “I’ve always believed that one of the best investments we can make is in our young people. This funding will help students in Immokalee gain the skills they need for good-paying careers while building the workforce our community depends on. I’ll continue fighting for opportunities that strengthen our students, our families, and Southwest Florida.”
Career Pathways is an education and workforce development model that guides students from middle school through postsecondary and into careers in Southwest Florida’s most in-demand industries. Students explore career options, receive mentoring and professional development, complete paid internships, receive postsecondary scholarships, and earn industry certifications and college credentials that prepare them for long-term professional success.
The program has produced exceptional outcomes since launching in 2018:
- 100% graduate from high school.
- 100% earn an industry-recognized certification and complete a paid internship.
- 95% pursue postsecondary education; 5% enter military service or employment.
- 100% complete a postsecondary credential or degree with 86% earning a bachelor’s degree or higher.
- 95% of alumni work in their field of study.
“The Immokalee Foundation extends its sincere appreciation to State Senator Kathleen Passidomo, State Representative Lauren Melo, Governor Ron DeSantis, and members of the Florida Legislature for their leadership and commitment to investing in the future of Southwest Florida,” said Noemi Y. Perez, President and CEO of The Immokalee Foundation. “When students are equipped with education, skills, and opportunities to succeed, everyone benefits. Our students thrive, businesses gain a stronger talent pipeline, and Florida’s economy grows stronger.”
