Our Teen Ambassadors
At the Matlacha Hookers, we are proud to support the bright futures of our community’s youth through the "Hooked on Education" Scholarship Program. Our teen ambassadors and scholarship recipients represent the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers. These exceptional individuals have used their scholarships to pursue degrees, certifications, and technical training, helping them achieve their educational and career goals.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the generous donors whose contributions make these scholarships possible. Whether for tuition, books, or other educational costs, these scholarships are an investment in a brighter future for our community. Here, we celebrate some of our past recipients and share how they’ve utilized their scholarships to follow their dreams and make a difference.
Maggie Stein
Hooked On Education | 2020 Recipient
"The 'Hooked on Education' scholarship was a cornerstone in my journey to becoming a clinical social worker. Growing up in New Jersey, my early experiences with social workers shaped my passion for helping others, and the generosity of the Matlacha Hookers and Rodney & Holly Aldrich allowed me to turn that passion into a lifelong career.
Thanks to this scholarship, I was able to complete my Master of Social Work degree at the University of Toronto in 2022, and I am now proud to own a private practice, offering therapeutic services to children, adolescents, and their families dealing with mental health challenges.
​
The support of the Matlacha Hookers not only helped me achieve my educational goals but also made a meaningful impact that ripples far beyond my local community. Their commitment to empowering others inspired me to pursue this heart work, and I am forever grateful for the role they played in paving my path to success.
Thank you for making a difference in my life and the lives of so many others."
Maggie’s story highlights the transformative power of education and the importance of community support. We are proud to have played a part in her incredible journey and celebrate her ongoing success in helping others.
Angela Kerr
Hooked On Education | 2022 Recipient
"Receiving the 'Hooked on Education' scholarship was a game-changer for me. It gave me the financial support I needed to focus on my studies and graduate from the University of Central Florida with a bachelor's degree in psychology.
That degree has been instrumental in shaping my career and bringing me back to my hometown of Bokeelia, where I now proudly serve for the Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District.
This scholarship not only lightened my financial burden but also inspired me to give back to the community that has always supported me. I’m deeply grateful to the Matlacha Hookers and their donors for investing in my future. Their generosity has allowed me to pursue my passion for helping others and contribute to the place I’ve always called home."
Kaylin Hill
Hooked On Education | 2022 Recipient
"The 'Hooked on Education' scholarship has been an incredible blessing in my journey toward achieving my dreams. Growing up in St. James City and attending Pine Island Elementary School gave me a strong sense of community, and this scholarship reinforced the love and support that Pine Island continues to show its youth.
As a freshman at the University of Central Florida majoring in biomedical sciences and minoring in psychology, this scholarship has allowed me to focus on my academics and actively participate in meaningful organizations like the LEAD Scholars Academy, Knights Helping Knights Pantry, and UCF Dance Marathon. It has also helped me complete service hours and give back to others—values instilled in me from my time on Pine Island.
Thanks to the generosity of the Matlacha Hookers and the Pine Island Elementary School Scholarship Fund, I’m one step closer to my dream of becoming a physician. I am deeply grateful for their investment in my future and the opportunity to represent our wonderful community at UCF."
Armando Perez
Hooked On Education | 2024 Recipient
Armando Perez’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience and determination. Born in the U.S. and raised in Mexico, Armando returned to Pine Island at 16 with only a middle school education. Through the support of the Beacon of Hope GED program and mentors like Ila and Frank Valcarcel, he earned his GED and pursued higher education.
​
Now a sophomore at Florida SouthWestern State College, Armando is working toward a business degree while volunteering with the Beacon of Hope and assisting others in achieving their educational goals. His "Hooked on Education" scholarships, generously provided by Holly & Rod Aldrich, have helped cover the costs of his books and education, allowing him to focus on his studies and future aspirations.
​
“I’ll never forget where I came from or the challenges I faced,” Armando said. “Starting from zero was hard, but it taught me humility and the importance of helping others. For every step I take, I’ll take two more in humility.”
​
Armando’s inspiring story highlights the power of perseverance and community support, and we are honored to celebrate his success.
