Community & Services
Financial Empowerment Centers Helping Residents Gain Control of Their Finances
When Khenitha Reeves moved from Tallahassee to Orange County in 2020 with her two young daughters, she was determined to build a better life. But like many others, she experienced unexpected challenges — especially financial ones — precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic. As a single mother, Reeves wanted to be a strong role model and […]
Water Conservation Calendar Awards Ceremony Commemorates Two Decades of Student Talent
Orange County Utilities and Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) recently gathered to honor imaginative K-12 student artists whose work is featured in the annual...
Transportation Mobility Advisory Commission Issues Report
On March 13, 2025, the Transportation Mobility Advisory Commission (TransMAC), a citizen-led advisory board tasked with holding public hearings and making recommendations to the...
Orange County Hosts Its First-Ever Mayor’s Citizens Academy – En Español
Reflecting Orange County’s commitment to inclusivity and its growing Hispanic population, the County recently wrapped up its first-ever Mayor’s Citizens Academy conducted entirely in...
Code Compliance Inspector Helps Rescue Abused Dogs
What began as a routine property inspection turned into a life-changing moment for three dogs thanks to the quick thinking and compassion of an...
Leading with Strength, Service and Song
Meet Lieutenant Gwenetta Garrett — a dedicated leader who uses her position to inspire, support and uplift others. Currently serving in Orange County Jail...
A Veteran’s Mission: Honoring Norris Henderson
When Norris Henderson left the U.S. Marines after two decades of service, his mission was far from over. Today, as program manager of Mission...
New Orange County District 5 Commissioner Committed to Community Service and Quality of Life for All
Dr. Kelly Martinez Semrad, newly elected County Commissioner for Orange County, District 5, is a dynamic leader, UCF professor and dedicated community advocate. Her...
Orange County Homeowners Build ADUs for Aging Parents Through Ready Set Orange
Camilo Betancur faced a difficult challenge: finding an affordable home for his aging parents. As rental prices soared and housing options shrank, that dream...
Child of This Culture Foundation Harnesses Power of Hip-Hop To Promote Positivity, Leadership and Community
This is the third in a series of newsroom stories highlighting local arts and culture organizations awarded Cultural Tourism Grants. Connection, self-expression and growth...
