Orange County Hosts Mock Hurricane Activation on Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day
Orange County Government and the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) recently hosted the children of employees for an afternoon of learning and fun as part of the national Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day initiative. The program, now in its 25th year, serves children by inspiring them to believe in themselves, as well as helping them envision a future workplace where everyone is welcomed.
Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs greeted children and their families as they arrived and also provided remarks on the importance of public service.
“Every year I am blown away not only by how many of you are here to participate, but also by how incredibly interested and engaged you are,” Mayor Jacobs said. “Your mom or dad work very hard to keep Orange County running effectively and efficiently. Their hard work and dedication are a big part of what makes Orange County the best place to live, work and raise a family.”
Orange County District 6 Commissioner Victoria P. Siplin also attended the event and provided an overview of local government and how the BCC operates.
Following the remarks, children participated in a mock hurricane activation prepared by the National Weather Center in Melbourne and Orange County’s Office of Emergency Management. The BCC Chamber was transformed into an emergency operations center where participants learned about the different emergency support functions (ESF) and their responsibilities before, during and after the storm. Children also held a press conference after the activity to share what they learned.
After the event in the BCC Chamber, families joined Orange County Fire Rescue and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office to learn more about hurricane preparedness.
The purpose of this year’s event was to provide children with a firsthand look at local government in action and its positive impact on the community. Orange County Government participates in Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day to show children what their parents do every day to meet the needs of citizens and how they help make the County a great place to live now and for generations to come.
Photo Caption: Orange County Government hosted more than 100 children for Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day on April 26, 2018.
