About Amanda
Amanda Pearson is the founder and host of Community Matters. She launched this "passion project" in 2025 to support local citizens with their community awareness, activation, and engagement.

Her Story
During the day, Amanda passionately serves the David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health, managing the development and execution of strategic partnerships that deepen DLC’s existing relationships, identify new opportunities, establish innovative and entrepreneurial social enterprise initiatives, and secure resources that advance the mission of DLC to generate long-term, sustainable impact.
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Amanda previously served as the vice president of the Leadership Collier Foundation of the Greater Naples Chamber. In this role, she managed the LCF’s programming and initiatives focused on community leadership, mentorship, and talent. Amanda created and led the first strategic plan for the LCF and oversaw its successful implementation and completion.
Before joining the Chamber, Amanda, an experienced educator, held leadership roles at Royal Palm Academy in Naples, St. James Lutheran School in Chicago, and Catherine Cook School in Chicago.
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As a long-time resident of Naples, Amanda enjoys serving her community and has served in a variety of civic leadership roles including: FGCU Alumni Association Board, FGCU Water School Advisory Council, Latinos 239 Foundation Board, City of Naples Public Arts Advisory Board, Child’s Path Advisory Board, Naples Historical Society Young Executive Society, Grace Place Ambassadors, Collier Board of Advisors for the Children’s Movement of Florida, Naples Junior Woman’s Club Board, Shelter for Abused Women and Children “Next Gen” Board, Blue Zones Community Engagement Committee, Hope for Haiti “Next Gen” Board, and the Grace Lutheran School Board. As a former foster parent, Amanda also founded a county-based foster family recruitment initiative.
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For her community leadership, Amanda has been recognized as one of the Naples Illustrated "Naples 100," recognizing the most influential leaders in Collier County; Gulfshore Business’ "40 Under 40," Naples Illustrated "Rising Star," and is a graduate of Leadership Florida.
About Us
Community Matters is a podcast dedicated to educating citizens about current happenings in our community. We bring insightful conversations with local leaders, business owners, and change-makers to help you stay informed and engaged. By understanding the issues that shape our neighborhoods, we can work together to build a stronger, more connected community.