MARCO ISLAND — Guadalupe Center hosted its annual Buddy Day on Monday, February 16, welcoming more than 100 second-grade students for a memorable day of outdoor learning, mentorship, and connection at Hideaway Beach Club on Marco Island.

A cherished tradition for more than 25 years, Buddy Day pairs Guadalupe Center students one-on-one with volunteer “Big Buddies” for a beach-based learning experience designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and create joy beyond the classroom. Through hands-on activities such as shoreline exploration, wildlife observation, beach games, and crafts, students engage with nature while forming meaningful relationships with caring mentors. These activities are generously led by Big Cypress National Preserve, the YMCA of Collier County, the Marco Island Shelling Club, Kids 2 Camp, and the Marco Island Fire Department.

Buddy Day is a highlight of Guadalupe Center’s After-school Tutoring program, which supports students in kindergarten through second grade during the critical early elementary years. Through daily academic support in literacy and math, paired with enriching activities that spark creativity, curiosity, and confidence, the program helps students build strong foundational skills. It also keeps them on track for long-term academic success. Experiences like Buddy Day extend learning beyond the classroom, giving students the opportunity to explore new environments, strengthen social-emotional skills, and discover what’s possible beyond the school day.

The Guadalupe Center extends its deepest gratitude to the Hideaway Beach Club community for generously hosting Buddy Day and for the extraordinary commitment of its residents and staff who help organize, support, and volunteer for the event each year. Their leadership and hospitality play a vital role in creating a safe, welcoming environment where students can learn, explore, and thrive.

“Buddy Day is about so much more than a day at the beach. It’s about showing children that their community believes in them,” said Bill Dempsey, Chair of the Guadalupe Center Board of Trustees. “The Hideaway Beach community’s long-standing partnership and hands-on involvement make this experience possible. When students are given the opportunity to learn in new environments alongside dedicated adult mentors, it reinforces their confidence, curiosity, and sense of possibility.”

The event highlights the power of education, mentorship, and community coming together to support young learners during a critical stage of their development. Buddy Day also offers volunteers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while strengthening connections between Guadalupe Center and the broader community.

The Guadalupe Center also thanks food partners Boar’s Head, Sysco, and Mr. Green’s Produce for the healthy lunch provided to the children. With the support of dedicated partners, volunteers, and sponsors, Buddy Day reflects Guadalupe Center’s belief that education flourishes when a community comes together. Each shared moment, whether a conversation, a discovery along the shoreline, or a word of encouragement, reinforces a simple truth. When children are surrounded by people who believe in them, endless possibilities begin.