Naples, FL (March 24, 2016) - In 1997, Fiddler’s Creek responded to Collier County Schools’ “Building Bridges” program by forming a partnership with nearby Manatee Elementary School in which residents of the real estate community collected toys to help students in need have a brighter Christmas. Today, that partnership has flourished; while the community’s support still includes the toy drive, Fiddler’s Creek residents organize an annual school supply effort, collect funds through an annual Turkey Trot to help teachers purchase classroom supplies, and volunteer in classrooms as mentors and aides to work directly with kids in the Title I school.

Title I schools are those with a large enrollment or a high percentage of children from low-income families.

Last week, residents’ efforts were celebrated at Fiddler’s Creek by Collier County Commissioner Donna Fiala, Collier County Public Schools Superintendent Kamela Patton, Manatee Elementary Principal Wendy Borowski, and school board members Kathy Curatalo and Roy Terry, who were among the luncheon’s 40 guests.

Aubrey Ferrao, President and CEO of the Fiddler’s Creek community, thanked residents for their commitment and generosity and challenged communities throughout Collier County to adopt Title I schools. “Education is one of the most powerful, transformational advantages any child can have,” said Aubrey Ferrao. “By helping our Title I kids be successful, we are strengthening the fabric of our communities, while helping to brighten the future for these students, their families – and for us all.”  Aubrey Ferrao continued, “I join with our education leaders in encouraging other communities and residents to adopt a Title I school, and to help nurture the students with your time, treasure and talents.”

“Our residents have made such a positive impact on the lives of Manatee Elementary students and their families because they feel it’s important to give back,” said Ron Albeit, general manager of Fiddler’s Creek. “We know there are other schools that would benefit from a similar partnership with a master-planned community.”

Last summer, Fiddler’s Creek community residents donated 59 backpacks, 10 uniforms, 39 pairs of shoes, 139 composition books, and enough school essentials to check off the back-to-school supply lists for dozens of Manatee Elementary students.

“Fiddler’s Creek has supported us for a long time, and the residents have seen the different needs we have had over the years,” said Borowski. “We can assure our children not to worry, that we will have what they need and that is because of what Fiddler’s Creek does for us.”

Located on Collier Boulevard on the way to Marco Island, Fiddler’s Creek is an award-winning residential community in Naples.  Most recently, Fiddler’s Creek was named a Distinguished Emerald Club by BoardRoom magazine- a prestigious honor reserved for only the top 5 percent of private clubs in the world.

Resort-inspired amenities include the 54,000-square-foot Club & Spa at Fiddler’s Creek, offering a fitness center, tropical lagoon-style swimming complex, tennis courts, and both elegant and casual dining at Caxambas and the Gator Grille. Fiddler’s Creek also offers an extensive social calendar including themed parties, happy hours, clubs and classes, and children’s activities.

Fiddler’s Creek residents seeking a beach and boating lifestyle have the opportunity to join the Tarpon Club. The Tarpon Club features a full-service marina, social activities on and off the water, beach pavilion access at the award-winning Marco Beach Ocean Resort, and resort and spa privileges.

Additionally, Fiddler’s Creek residents have the opportunity to enjoy championship golf by joining The Golf Club at Fiddler’s Creek. Designed by celebrated course architect Arthur Hills, the signature 18-hole Creek Course has been named among Golfweek Magazine’s Top 100 Best Residential Golf Courses in the country for 11 consecutive years.

The Golf Club at Fiddler’s Creek also offers a full-service practice facility with a driving range and short-game area with bunkers, advance tee times and an off-season reciprocal program. Tournaments, invitationals, club championships, golf instruction and social events are among the special activities that fill members’ calendars.

A limited number of non-resident annual and seasonal memberships, with term date flexibility, are currently available at both The Golf Club and The Tarpon Club.

Fiddler’s Creek homes are located within picturesque residential villages nestled along lakes, golf course fairways and conservation areas.  Fiddler’s Creek home buying options include coach, villa, single-family and custom estate homes. Home buying at the Fiddler’s Creek community is a unique and special opportunity.  Pre-construction real estate and move-in-ready homes are priced from the $400,000s to over $2 million.

Read More About Fiddler's Creek