| Details: |
The mission of the Southwest Florida Holocaust Museum is to teach the history and lessons of the Holocaust; to prevent its re-occurrence; and to perpetuate understanding, compassion, and mutual respect, tolerance and diversity. The Museum grew out of an exhibit created by students at Golden Gate Middle School in Naples, FL, with their Social Studies and Art teachers, to educate other children, adults and future generations, and is an important resource for local educators. The students were assisted by local collectors Diana and Homer Helter, whose collection of over 300 original "Death Camp /Holocaust" artifacts is on permanent loan to the museum. The Holocaust represents an example of the horrible evil that can exist in mankind. The human community must continue to reinforce the values, morals and tolerance that will prevent such evil from ever again gaining momentum. Achieving our mission is even more critical following the devastating events of September 11, 2001. The Museum operates docent-led tours for middle and high school classes, community groups, and the general public; arranges speakers for school and community groups; and maintains a lending library of Holocaust related books and videos. Preparatory and follow-up materials are provided to teachers, including books, videos, teacher’s guides and other supplementary materials. In conjunction with school administrators, we offer teacher education and curriculum support, including teacher-training workshops. The Museum has also sponsored an essay contest for high school students. In addition, we are developing an Oral/Visual History Project to document the personal histories of local area residents who were survivors of Nazi persecution, Liberators, Rescuers, Witnesses, and other non-Jews who lived in Europe at that time. |
