By Orange County Commissioner Christine Moore
This is the third column reflecting on the 2024 Corridor of the Year Contest and Neighborhood Leader Program. The program has four functioning groups in Lockhart, Pine Hills, Southern Apopka, and Northeastern Apopka. My hope for my final full year as a county commissioner is that I can stand up one more “people group”. Time will tell if it is PODA – People of Downtown Apopka or PONA – People of North Apopka.
Orange County Public Works staff were recognized at the awards night as they were an integral part of the program. I received this e-mail from a top manager in the department the morning after the award presentation. The writer noticed the atmosphere and collaboration with District 2 Leaders Group members.
“While I sat and listened, I was unaware of how much Commissioner Moore involves herself and her staff and inspires pride in her District community. I’m blown away to see how much community spirit and the support they give each other; if you have never been (to a meeting) it’s a must see. The energy in the room was remarkable, and it was a great experience for me. I have truly have a new respect for Commissioner Moore and her staff, this is the stuff that needs to be on the news as they all deserve recognition for what they do”.
I was equally blown away by the content of the e-mail. There was much love and support between neighbors in the room. How did this come about? Was it part of the program design? Was it something I or my staff do? This e-mail has inspired me to research how we created the collaborative atmosphere in District 2.
The answer given to me most of those I asked, is that I show up and contribute to their events. While the groups are growing and building out the talent and a strong board of directors, my staff and I fill in with completing tasks and duties. My goal is always for them to be successful and eventually fully interdependent on one another. Yes, I did take several leadership classes, one from Harvard to learn how to lead such a wonderful group of District 2 residents.
Yes, I plan clean-ups for the younger teams and often recruit auxiliary organizations to assist. My staff, particularly Linda and Roy, make hundreds of phone calls, send thousands of texts and emails, and routinely post graphics on social media inclusively inviting people to join the effort. And obviously, we honor and reward participation.
But I truly don’t think this is the whole story. Many organizations use similar models and develop comradery amongst their members. I’m still researching the “why” we are so supportive of one another and our respective communities in District 2.
Also, in my analysis is the consideration that certain sections of the district don’t enjoy this same comradery as Lockhart, Wekiwa Springs, Clarcona-Ocoee, or parts of Southern Apopka. Some areas don’t have groups as I just haven’t had the time to inaugurate eight groups simultaneously. Others because their cities are doing a good job without the county involvement. Some wealthier areas simply have enough funds and leisure time to engage in their own activities. Other areas seemingly do not believe that improving a community requires a partnership between residents and local government. Some residents are trapped into believing their HOA will take care of everything. And others are only involved with the requirements of survival and their own families. There are many good reasons people do not engage with us.
My thoughts remain focused on why those residents and neighborhoods that do engage with the Neighborhood Leader Program have become so interested in their local community. They are helpful, engaged, and concerned about one another.
The context of the program does matter. We offer monthly meetings for those interested in activities besides community clean-ups. The people groups engage in local historical events, historical markers, art, advocacy, partnerships with law enforcement, transportation, and learning more about local government services. They communicate the happenings in their area through social media. And they are strong partners with local schools and non-profits. The monthly meetings are concerned with every aspect of community building.
However, I think there is more to it…stay tuned for the 4th column on the Neighborhood Leader Program.
