Community & Services
Small Home, Big Impact — Orange County Resident Builds Accessory Dwelling Unit for Friend Using Ready Set Orange
A new home is taking shape in Mary Page’s quiet backyard. While it may be small, covering just 531 square feet, the Pine Hills resident believes the modest space will have a huge impact once complete. That’s because Page is building this backyard cottage as a surprise for a friend who has spent years struggling […]
Mayor’s Citizens Academy Grads Go Behind the Scenes of Local Government
Over the course of ten weeks, 44 Orange County residents gained a behind-the-scenes look at how their local government operates through the Mayor’s Citizens...
From Nominees to Notables: Celebrating Our Standout Citizens
Established in 2002, the Citizen of the Year and Community Awards celebrate residents who have dedicated their time, energy and resources to making Orange...
Best of the Best: Heavy Equipment Operator Proves Skills are Tops in North America
Five months after earning top marks in the state, an Orange County heavy equipment operator took home an award at an international competition. Orange...
Orange County Deputy EMS Medical Director Earns Award For Leading the Way in Stroke Care
Orange County Deputy EMS Medical Director Dr. Desmond Fitzpatrick is a true lifesaver. He helps save lives across Central Florida by bringing hospitals, EMS...
Orange County Seeks Alternative Measures to Fight Hunger With Recent SNAP Benefits Suspension
On Wednesday, October 29, 2025, Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings joined representatives from Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, Heart of Florida...
Orange County’s Surplus Lots Program Helps Family Build Stability
When Chelethia “Chelly” Helmes moved into her first apartment in 2002, rent was $500 a month. By 2022, that number had tripled, and she...
Pine Hills on the Move: New LYNX Transfer Center Drives Community Growth
Getting around Orange County just got easier for Pine Hills residents. The community’s new LYNX bus transfer station is now open, providing faster, more...
Orange County’s Sustainability Initiatives Deliver Big Wins for Taxpayers and the Community
Orange County’s sustainability initiatives are not only reducing pollution and conserving natural resources — they are saving taxpayers millions of dollars, improving operational efficiency...
Spreading Hope: Peanut Butter Challenge Tackles Hunger
It’s that time of year again where Orange County gets a little nuts… meaning peanuts! Hosted by our partners at UF|IFAS Extension Orange County,...
