Phil McCabe: Giving Students Opportunities for their Future

Phil McCabe, owner of The Inn on Fifth, has donated funding to The Education Foundation since 2003, resulting in 45 students having the opportunity to go to college through the Take Stock in Children Scholarship and Mentoring program.   As a longtime benefactor and advocate of this program, he realizes the wonderful impact the Take Stock program has on students – and for many, most likely, the best chance they have to succeed.

According to Mr. McCabe, the rationale behind his significant support for the Take Stock in Children program is first and foremost, his commitment to children with financial need – children who wish to excel – and children who can be successful in higher education if they had the financial opportunity.  “Coupled with that personal commitment is my highest respect for the Take Stock program, the professional management of Take Stock, the matching state funds, and consequently the very high yield I receive for my investment in the children,” stated Mr. McCabe.

The Education Foundation is able to purchase four year college scholarships with donated dollars which are matched through the Florida Prepaid Foundation Matching Fund.  As a result of Mr. McCabe’s generosity, 45 students will be able to realize their dream to attend college!

He also feels strongly about what he sees as one of the most important aspects of Take Stock in Children which is the support that students receive from their adult mentor.  These mentors meet with their student weekly throughout the academic year.

Phil McCabe is also an ambassador for the Take Stock program.  When the Naples St. Patrick’s Day Parade formally incorporated into the Naples St. Patrick Foundation Inc., a new non-profit charitable organization in 2010, Mr. McCabe shared his feelings about Take Stock in Children.  Part of the mission of the Naples St. Patrick Foundation is to award college scholarships to deserving young people in the region.  According to Jim McEvoy, President of the new foundation, “Phil’s explanation of the program sold me on making the recommendation to our board of directors to support the Take Stock program. We made our first scholarship donation to a matching scholarship in May of 2011 and plan to partner in Take Stock in Children for many years to come.”

The impact Phil McCabe is making through his generosity is apparent when you read this excerpt from a thank you note written by one of this year’s students whose scholarship he sponsored.  “I cannot say how appreciative I am for all that you have done for me. Your generous donation has given me more than just a college scholarship; it gave me hope when I needed it the most. It gave me the push I needed to change my outlook on life, and begin planning a brighter future for myself.  Thank you for giving me the push I needed to move towards my very own bright and happy future.”

Thank you to Phil McCabe for your generous support and dedication to Collier County students.

Photo Caption:  Phil McCabe with six 2011 Take Stock in Children graduates for whom he sponsored scholarships