Youth Haven, Collier County’s only emergency and residential shelter for abused and neglected children and teens ages 6 to 21, announced the public launch of its Building Hope for Tomorrow comprehensive capital campaign. This transformational $20 million initiative will support the construction of a new building as well as expand and elevate the nonprofit’s therapeutic, educational and enrichment services and programs for vulnerable youth across the region.

The incredible milestone was commemorated with a launch party hosted by MHK Architecture, which is generously donating all design services for the project and has been a longtime supporter of Youth Haven. Held at their Naples office on Nov. 13, guests enjoyed catering, refreshments, music and remarks from Matthew Kragh, founder of MHK Architecture, Elizabeth Star, capital campaign chair and Linda Goldfield, chief executive officer of Youth Haven.

“This is one of the worthiest causes I’ve seen in Naples,” shared Kragh. “Seeing these kids, and having a family of my own, it just hits you. The way they’ve lived, what they’ve been through, the challenges they face — compared to what most families in this town experience — it’s night and day. This is such an important cause.”

With more than half of the campaign goal already secured, Youth Haven enters the public phase propelled by strong early support and an active $1 million matching gift opportunity in effect through Jan. 14, 2026. Naming opportunities remain available for donors wishing to make a lasting impact on the future and wellbeing of local youth, including the building naming rights.

Founded in 1972, Youth Haven has provided lifesaving shelter, therapy, safety and support to children and teens experiencing abuse, neglect, family instability and homelessness for more than five decades. As the need in Southwest Florida continues to grow, the organization is taking bold steps to meet rising demand and create a campus equipped for the future.

“This campaign represents one of the most significant milestones in our 53-year history,” said Goldfield. “We would like to give a special thank you to our partners that have graciously donated their time and talents to our efforts. With community support, we will build a facility that uplifts every young person who comes through our doors. Our hope is this will be an enduring safe space that provides healing and renewal.”

The Building Hope for Tomorrow capital campaign will fund the construction of the Therapeutic Enrichment Center, establish an endowment for long-term sustainability and enhance Youth Haven’s capacity to expand programs that address emotional wellness, education, life skills, family reunification and enrichment opportunities.

The new 22,000-square-foot Therapeutic Enrichment Center will replace Youth Haven’s current building and strengthen every aspect of its mission to provide home, hope and healing for youth in need. The project will be completed in partnership with Curran Young Construction, serving as the campaign’s builder. Additional partners donating their expertise to the project include:

-Mark McLean, national director at MHK Architecture – design services

-Karen Larson Murphy, Sean Murphy and Jim Rafferty from Gordon Pass – property management services

-Natasha Pereira Interior Design – interior design services

Purpose-built using trauma-informed design principles, the new center will transform Youth Haven’s ability to provide lifesaving and life-changing services. The facility will serve as a dynamic hub for healing, growth and connection, ensuring that every child who arrives at Youth Haven feels safe, supported and empowered. Key features include:

-A modern dining hall and commercial kitchen for family-style meals and nutrition programs

-Private therapy suites and group counseling spaces

-A dedicated education hub and library to support academic success and literacy

-A STEAM Lab and art studio for creative expression

-A family visit center and welcoming reception area

-A yoga and meditation studio to support mindfulness and trauma recovery

-Administrative offices and an executive board room

-Outdoor gathering areas and a therapeutic lanai

“Every day, Youth Haven rebuilds the lives of children who have yet to know the true meaning of happiness and stability. And Youth Haven — exactly as the name says — becomes their haven,” said Star. “It is not an easy transition. It is not an easy journey. But the skilled people at Youth Haven, through their therapy, mentoring, kindness, love and caring, they truly make it all happen for these kids. We are in the process of doing something life-changing for Youth Haven’s future and life-changing for the children who call it home. This is an organization of excellence and accountability. We are investing in a place these children call home. I am proud to support this.”

Youth Haven invites individuals, families, businesses and foundations to participate in the campaign. All contributions made through Jan. 14, 2026, will be matched up to $1 million, doubling donors’ impact.

Learn more about Youth Haven and the Building Hope for Tomorrow Capital Campaign at youthhavenswfl.org/capital-campaign or call 239-774-2904.

About Youth Haven

For more than five decades, Youth Haven has served as a sanctuary in Southwest Florida, providing home, hope and healing to children and teens experiencing abuse, neglect and oftentimes, homelessness. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and Collier County’s only emergency and residential shelter for boys and girls ages 6 to 21, Youth Haven provides far more than shelter, delivering comprehensive programs including therapeutic services, trauma-informed holistic care, foster and transitional housing, and enrichment initiatives that help every child realize their potential and have a bright future. Youth Haven is accredited by the nationally recognized Council on Accreditation, licensed by the Florida Department of Children and Families, and is a partner of Children’s Network of Southwest Florida. Rated 4-star (excellent) by Charity Navigator and Platinum by Candid/Guidestar, Youth Haven is a beneficiary of the Naples Children Foundation. For more information or to schedule a tour, please visit youthhavenswfl.org or call 239-774-2904. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.