Community & Services
Orange County’s Community Centers Making Significant Impact
Across Orange County, nine Community Centers are doing far more than offering programs and services — they are helping thousands of residents build better lives. Operated by the County’s Community Action Division, these centers embody a simple but powerful philosophy: when people are given the tools to help themselves, entire communities thrive. Each year, nearly […]
From Service to Civilian: Navigating the Transition with Veterans Services
Melissa Michaud, an Orange County Veteran Services counselor, was a college freshman when she struck up a conversation with visiting ROTC candidates on campus....
Neighborhood Services Division’s Code Compliance Team Jumps in to Help Resident with Car Problems
Code Compliance Inspectors from Orange County’s Neighborhood Services Division went above and beyond their regular duties recently when they sprang into action to help...
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...
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...
