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The FGCU “Wings of Hope” program was designed to build bridges of hope for the Environment, Wildlife, and the Human Community, instilling an awareness that an individual can make a difference.”

The program is an integral part of FGCU’s Environmental Humanities curriculum. The program designs and implements FGCU student group projects to educate K-6th grade students on the environment and wildlife of Southwest Florida (SWFL).

Since May 2000 Wings of Hope” has provided environmental education to over 100, 000 students and teachers in elementary and middle schools in five (5) SWFL counties.
From 50 schools ( 4th graders) monitoring radio-collared panthers, called the Ricky Pires and Jeb BushFlorida Panther Posse to young students creating panther masks that are given to kids in the hospital, the “Wings of Hope” program with personal one-on-one contact in the classrooms and interaction with FGCU students has been a successful component of fostering new attitudes and commitments to understanding, protecting, and preserving our environment and wildlife.

The program is a part of over 50 schools science and writing curriculum every year because it focuses on Florida Sunshine State Standards and FCAT preparation to assist the young students. The “Wings of Hope” brings its programs to thousands of students all across the social-economic spectrum including students of migrant workers, Boys & Girls Clubs, Alternative Learning Centers, and their families. It continues its focus on bringing back a sense of family and community.

 

FGCU Wings of Hope Program Awards

 

  • SWFCEE (Southwest Florida Council for Environmental Education) 2002 Hammy Award for the “Florida Panther Posse” and the “Wings of Hope” program as the most outstanding environmental program for the year.
  • U.S. Fish & Wildlife Award since 2000 for the “Florida Panther Posse” program
  • Disney’s Conservation Challenge (2003) First place award in Southwest Florida for “Florida Panther Posse” program.
  • Recognized and awarded by the Lee County Commissioners; Florida Senator Burt Saunders; and Governor Jeb Bush.
  • “Wings of Hope” program was a partnership with a special event and appearance by Dr. Jane Goodall for a “Reason for Hope” Celebration (2001).
  • Melanie the Manatee Award for innovative water resource educational programs, recognized by South Florida Management District/ Big Cypress Basin
  • Environmental Educator of the Year 2006 – Awarded to Director Ricky Pires by Florida Wildlife Federation