Immokalee's Karen O. Rises to the Top

Who doesn't love a role model? But perhaps more interesting is why we choose to model our behavior after one person versus another. Is it because of their character, conduct, or actions - or all of the above?

Do we have to restrict the role model label to individuals - or can the title be extended to groups and communities?

The town of Immokalee, Florida, is an impressive role model of community spirit. Even with an economic deck stacked against them, Immokalee's hard working people continue to defy the odds through an exemplary work ethic and sheer determination.

Primarily known as an agricultural community, Immokalee feeds tens of thousands of people in Southwest Florida and beyond. Despite the economic and physical challenges accompanying this line of work, this is a town to admire—not just for its agriculture but for its heart, its culture of taking care of its own.

One limitation I never place on role model status is someone's age. You are never too old - or too young - to positively influence another person's life.

Meet 12-year-old Karen O. - an alto sax-playing, marching band-loving, aspiring nurse and dedicated student of The Immokalee Foundation's robust Middle School Program. Karen dreams of one day attending Florida SouthWestern State College - a dream that would likely not come true without the scholarships available to Immokalee Foundation students.

Karen is a role model of persistence and dedication.

Of course, Karen also has a team of educational enthusiasts on her side. For almost 32 years, The Immokalee Foundation has been preparing the next generation of business leaders and role models through a 100% focus on education, career readiness, and professional development for young people in Immokalee - from kindergarten through postsecondary education. 

The Foundation provides new pathways to success and financial independence through robust programming that prepares students for well-paying, in-demand professional careers in Business Management and Entrepreneurship, Education and Human Services, Engineering and Construction Management, and Healthcare.

As a considerable part of Immokalee culture centers on family, it is no surprise that Karen, having seen her sister excel in the Foundation, chose to follow in her footsteps. Of course, this is the same wise-beyond-her-years sister who Karen said, "has always had my back and helped motivate me never to give up." That's some sister!

The Immokalee Foundation's reason for being is to support determined self-starters by removing the obstacles to education inherent in Immokalee. But for its student population, overcoming obstacles comes with the territory. "I learned that in the beginning, trying something new can be challenging," said Karen. "But it becomes easier when you set your mind to it and are determined to accomplish your goal."

Some of us wait decades to achieve this level of insight—Karen is getting ready to start 8th grade. Let it also be said that goal setting is the gold standard for all Immokalee Foundation students.

Karen is also the same rising 8th grader who has chosen "optimistic" as her best descriptor "because I always try to look at the positives of every situation." Thankfully, yes, she does.

This summer, Karen and approximately 50 of her friends participated in The Immokalee Foundation's Middle School STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Camp, held in partnership with Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), where 50 of our middle school students engaged in activities focused on improving problem-solving abilities, critical thinking capabilities, strengthening communication skills and career experiential learning.

Activities included coding, environmental science, construction management, aquatic systems, and Achieve 3000 - an online literacy reading program.

If you asked 13-year-old me who my role model was, sadly, I would not have said my mom or dad. I was likelier to mention a member of SNL's famed Not Ready for Prime Time Players. 

Nevertheless, almost every Immokalee Foundation student I have encountered has cited a member of their immediate family for this honor. Karen is no different. "My role model is my mother because she has been through a lot, and even though she has had many obstacles, she never let me and my sister down," said Karen. "She is the strongest person I have ever known, and I aspire to be like her one day."

From all I've seen, Karen is destined to be just as extraordinary as her mother - and then some. Aren't you glad you've gotten to know Karen, too?