Today the City of Orlando was awarded a $200,000 grant from the Cities of Service coalition that will allow Orlando to build on its existing volunteer programs and engage more residents, businesses and community groups in service efforts throughout the community. The announcement was made at the annual National Conference on Volunteering and Service in New York City.
Orlando was selected through a competitive grant process to receive this award and is one of only 20 cities total selected for this grant. Orlando joins other major cities announced today including Atlanta, GA; Austin, TX; Baltimore, MD; Pittsburgh, PA; and Richmond, VA.
The two-year Cities of Service Leadership Grant, funded by the Rockefeller Foundation and Bloomberg Philanthropies, will allow the City to appoint a Chief Service Officer – a senior city official dedicated to developing and implementing a citywide plan to increase volunteerism and target volunteers.
“The Rockefeller Foundation is proud to continue our long tradition of supporting innovative solutions for urban communities through the Cities of Service Leadership Grants,” said Rockefeller Foundation president Judith Rodin. “As a former University president, I saw firsthand how integral service can be in creating opportunities for communities to be involved in solving problems and finding innovative ideas on a local level. During this difficult economic time, the strongest leaders are guided by the deep understanding that community involvement can change neighborhoods, cities and a state, and the Rockefeller Foundation is thrilled to be a partner in fostering and supporting these efforts.”
As part of the grant, Mayor Dyer has identified two priority areas where increased service can have the most significant impact – youth crime prevention and youth educational enhancements. The focus and dedication of these areas build on Mayor Dyer’s existing service programs including the Community Service Work-Alongs and the Mayor’s Matching Grant program, which provides funding to local organizations who involve volunteers to implement or expand programs that engage youth in positive activities and educational opportunities including mentoring, creative arts, culture, career exploration and athletics.
With the new grant, the City will develop a comprehensive plan and coordinated strategy that matches volunteers with youth crime prevention and education programs.
The City will work to increase awareness of volunteer opportunities through the creation of a dedicated webpage, marketing efforts and social media outlets. In addition, the City will streamline the volunteer process, making it easier for residents to donate their time and talent.
Through the grant, a Mayor’s Service Advisory Council made up of key community partners and stakeholders will be created to provide feedback, make recommendations and assess progress throughout the program. Mayor Dyer is expected to launch the program in early 2011.
“The Cities of Service Leadership Grant will allow us to engage more residents in volunteer service that will directly benefit some of our community’s greatest needs,” said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. “This grant will further allow us to showcase our City’s commitment to volunteerism and to serve as a national model for service in our country. On behalf of our citizens, I thank the Cities of Service and the Rockefeller Foundation for this generous grant and tremendous support.”
The City of Orlando has initially partnered with the following organizations as part of the grant:
- UCF
- Orlando Magic
- Orange County Public Schools
- Heart of Florida United Way
- The Community Foundation
