As part of the Orange County Mayor’s Citizens Academy, I’ve been given the incredible opportunity to explore the inner workings of our local government, gaining insights into the essential services that keep our community thriving. The academy is a dynamic 9-week program that provides participants with a first-hand look at how Orange County operates, offering guided tours of key facilities and engaging discussions with county ..read more

Living in Orange County, Florida, has always been a source of pride for me. The vibrant culture, the welcoming community, and the continuous growth make it an incredible place to live. When I learned about the Orange County Mayor’s Citizens Academy, I was thrilled at the chance to dive deeper into the workings of our local government and gain a better understanding of how our ..read more

Since its inception in May 2008, IDignity has been a crucial lifeline for vulnerable populations in Central Florida, providing essential identification services that enable individuals to lead self-sufficient lives. Founded by members of five downtown Orlando churches, IDignity assists U.S. citizens and legal residents in navigating the complex and often costly process of obtaining personal identification. The Vital Services of IDignity Obtaining proper identification is something many of us take for granted, but for those without it, the challenges can be insurmountable. Without a valid ID, p ..read more

In 1994, an idea was born in the heart of Florida — an idea to change the community for the better. Fast forward to today, the Central Florida Foundation (CFF) celebrates 30 years of transformative work, dedicating resources and expertise to the most pressing needs of the community. This important anniversary marks not just past achievements but also sets the stage for future endeavors. Central Florida Foundation has been a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change across the region. Through initiatives that range from critical community conversations to strategic investment in key areas, CFF h ..read more

Downtown Orlando is set to become a bustling hub of creativity and cultural vitality with the launch of DTO Live, a new arts initiative spearheaded by the City of Orlando’s Downtown Development Board (DDB) in partnership with United Arts of Central Florida (UA). This ambitious project promises to bring over 800 performances to the heart of the city, transforming it into a vibrant stage where the community’s creativity takes center stage. So many wonderful and exciting things to do in Downtown Orlando. Running from now until June 2025, DTO Live features an impressive array of events across 11 l ..read more

Have you ever heard the saying, “Laughter is the best medicine”? Well, it turns out, there’s more truth to this statement than you might think. Laughter, along with the act of stepping out of your comfort zone, can have a profoundly positive impact on your brain’s health and overall well-being. As a curator and a comedian, of the annual ENL (Empowering Night of Laughter) Orlando’s favorite annual all-female comedy show I think a lot about humor and courage. Our annual event invites guests to be witness to empowerment in action as 9 Fearlessly Funny Women remind us that life happens ..read more

Have you ever heard the saying, “Laughter is the best medicine”? Well, it turns out, there’s more truth to this statement than you might think. Laughter, along with the act of stepping out of your comfort zone, can have a profoundly positive impact on your brain’s health and overall well-being. As a curator and a comedian, of the annual ENL (Empowering Night of Laughter) Orlando’s favorite annual all-female comedy show I think a lot about humor and courage. Our annual event invites guests to be witness to empowerment in action as 9 Fearlessly Funny Women remind us that life happens ..read more

Bringing teams together to find a cure for cancer. Since the game’s inception in 2015, the Cure Bowl has raised over $4.1 million for cancer research. Join the 9th Annual Cure Bowl in Orlando on December 16th, where college football fans, cancer survivors, and the community come together at FBC Mortgage Stadium for a day of inspiration and entertainment. In advance of the 3:30pm kickoff of the 9th Annual Cure Bowl (broadcast live on ABC), we have an action-packed schedule of events, something for everyone. Cure Bowl Fan Fest (11am to 3pm) is a free community event which includes the heartwarmi ..read more

Stepping Out of Comfort Zones for a Night of Laughs and Life Lessons Orlando’s favorite (and I think only) annual all-female comedy show is back for a sixth year. Orlando is set to witness a spectacular evening of humor and empowerment at the Sixth Annual Empowering Night of Laughter. Scheduled for January 19, 2024, at the Quantum Leap Winery, this event is more than just a comedy show; it’s a celebration of fearlessness, empowerment, and the joy of stepping out of one’s comfort zone. The Power of Humor This unique event, brought to you by Posh Able Events, features nine “Fearlessly Funny Wome ..read more

In the heart of Central Florida, a beacon of hope has steadily shone for three decades. The Homeless Services Network (HSN) has been a cornerstone in the fight against homelessness, dedicated to providing not just temporary relief but long-term solutions. Their mission is simple yet profound: to transform the lives of the most vulnerable, from military veterans and youth to individuals with disabilities, and those escaping domestic violence or human trafficking. Their vision is a community where homelessness is not an endless cycle but a brief, solvable predicament. This year, HSN marked its ..read more