LaSonashia McFadden, Resident Services Manager, Orlando Neighborhood Improvement Corporation
02/06/2024
Tags:

The Preserve at Emerald Villas, a 55+ community run by Orlando Neighborhood Improvement Corporation (ONIC), has become a beacon of shared experiences for residents who otherwise might be in isolation. Part of the success comes from the community's dedication to dismantling social barriers and nurturing connections among its residents. 

Dancing is one way that residents socialize at The Preserve. Photo/ONIC
At the helm of this initiative is the food pantry, which hosted more than 600 resident visits last year is John Munro, a resident of one of ONIC’s properties. He emphasized its significance not only as a source of sustenance but also as a space for residents to converge, share narratives and provide mutual support. The pantry has been staffed by other residents: Sonia Morris and Diana Ortiz. 

According to NeighborWorks America’s survey on social isolation, released at the end of 2023, many Americans believed accessing food and other amenities would be an important means of addressing social isolation. Thirty nine percent saw access to food and groceries as part of the solution.  

ONIC has focused on other ways to foster connection as well. Under the leadership of Munro, the community orchestrated a community conversation event featuring congressional representatives. This platform became a conduit for residents to voice concerns and dreams, fostering a sense of unity and collective purpose. 

Morris took charge of organizing the weekly Tea Party & Social Hour — a warm and
Breaking social isolation is important to ONIC's staff.
welcoming haven where friendships blossomed. Activities like the Bead Buffet, Game Day, Senior Sneakers and Exercise Class evolved into focal points for communal engagement, dismantling the barriers of isolation one event at a time. 

Residents discovered solace in the tea-time gatherings, which fostered a sense of community and understanding through meaningful conversations and shared experiences. Innovative sessions such as Spill the Tea, Community & Safety Meetings, Breakfast on the Go and Bingo Nights became integral components in weaving and strengthening the social fabric. 

The impact of these initiatives extended beyond mere socialization. Residents actively participated in ICE (in case of emergency) Pack creation during community meetings, highlighting the importance of preparedness and unity in times of need. One third of our residents submitted updated emergency contact information, displaying a newfound sense of community responsibility. 

Residents gather for a presentation at The Preserve.
Residents from the Emerald Villas community continued to work on connectivity by attending the NeighborWorks Community Leadership Institute in San Francisco, California.   

The Preserve at Emerald Villas stands out as a success story and a testament to the power of community. Breaking isolation isn’t just a goal; it’s an ongoing journey toward a more enriched, interconnected and supportive way of life. Residents there have cultivated a community that genuinely cares for one another. By dismantling the walls of isolation they’ve nurtured an environment where neighbors are more than just neighbors — they are friends and allies.