Dear Friend,
For years, Orlando residents have worked together to solve issues facing our City by helping others through service.
Volunteers help us tackle tough challenges in a cost-effective way that doesn’t burden our taxpayers. Engaging citizens and non-profit partners is a proven, responsible and smart strategy to make real progress on city challenges. The Corporation for National and Community Service estimates that just one volunteer hour provides services valued at $22.14.
Our volunteers are invaluable resources who create valuable impact. We can always use the services of more volunteers, so in 2011 we launched a citywide service plan, Orlando Cares, which engages volunteers to help youth improve their academic success, plan for a career and stay out of trouble.
Through six unique programs, volunteers impact educational outcomes and also contribute to the well-being of our community.
Thousands of volunteers have participated in Orlando Cares programs, helping more than 6,000 children and the results have been profound:
- 1,800 fifth-eighth graders have participated in Mayor Buddy’s Book Club
- Preschool Ambassadors have read 4,500 stories in pre-kindergarten centers
- More than 530 container gardens have been planted by youth participating in The Garden
- Hundreds of middle school students have completed career plans as part of Path Finders
- 100 percent of the students in 3rd Grade Reads powered by Read2Succeed have improved their reading fluency
- Thousands of citizens have taken part in community-wide hands-only CPR AED training through Take Heart Orlando
Many of my most memorable experiences as Mayor have come from volunteerism. I regularly participate in work alongs where I perform a job or service, often highlighting volunteer opportunities for our residents. I encourage you to explore volunteer opportunities through Orlando Cares. Your role in improving educational opportunities for children and promoting community safety will continue to make Orlando a City of Service.
To learn more about volunteer opportunities, click here.
Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor
