Jackie Zaragoza Named Full-Time Collier County Program Coordinator
Valerie’s House is celebrating Jacqueline “Jackie” Zaragoza as she transitions into her full-time role as Program Coordinator for Collier County.
Jackie began interning with Valerie’s House in August 2025 and later joined the team part time as a group night assistant. She graduated from Florida Gulf Coast University in May 2026 with her Bachelor of Social Work.
A native of Immokalee, Jackie has spent about eight years working with children through afterschool programs at the Guadalupe Center and Boys & Girls Club of Collier County.
“I have always been passionate about helping others feel supported and understood, especially during some of the most difficult moments in their lives,” Jackie said.
That passion led her to pursue a career in social work and continues to guide the care and dedication she brings to children and families at Valerie’s House.
Jackie plans to continue her education by pursuing a master’s degree in social work at either FGCU or Florida State University.
Congratulations, Jackie! We are grateful to have you supporting our Collier County families and look forward to all that is ahead.
You May Like
WGCU Highlights Valerie's House Record $70,000 Scholarship Program for Grieving Students
We're grateful to our friends at WGCU for highlighting this year's Valerie's House Scholarship Program and the incredible young people behind it. This year, Valerie's House awarded a record $70,000 in college scholarships to 34 teens and young adults who have experienced the death of a loved one and are
Valerie's House Family Featured by Gulf Coast News for Keeping Son's Dream Alive
When Gulf Coast News shared the story of Turn N Burn Food Truck, they highlighted more than a family business. They shared the story of a Valerie's House family choosing to honor the life of a son whose dream continues to inspire those who loved him. After losing her son,
Mackenzie Story
Mackenzie didn’t know what would happen after her mother died of complications from a stroke in February 2020. Her mother was a single parent, and after her death, 16-year-old Mackenzie moved across the state from Port Saint Lucie to Naples to live with distant family. Due to the COVID lockdown