This weeklong program was held daily at the Immokalee I-Tech Center, 508 N. 9th St. The goal of the program is to teach local youth basic boat-building skills by providing an opportunity to have a hands-on experience. It is rewarding for the teens to see a product built from start to finish. The program is designed to also teach teamwork, leadership and helps to foster a relationship of trust and respect between Collier’s youth and deputies.
During the week, the teens received a course in boater safety from the Collier County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. After completing the course they became certified to operate a vessel powered by a 10-horsepower motor or more.
Florida Community Bank donated the $850 boat and several area restaurants donated lunch for the teens.
On Friday at 1 p.m., the boat will be launched into a lake located at the corner of Lake Trafford and Carson roads so that the teens will have the chance to enjoy the fruits of their labor.
Photos by Cpl. Michael Taylor/CCSO (3)
