Traveling from Winter Haven to Daytona and everywhere in between, the word is spreading. “How Shall We Grow?” is becoming the hot topic in many conversations. If you haven’t heard it, you are missing out!
Since the start of this growth-visioning initiative in March 2006, many groups have asked for a regional update on this ambitious work. Such groups include the Board of the Central Florida Association of Environmental Professionals, the Space Coast Growth Management Coalition, the Orlando Building Owners and Managers Association, the Professional Construction Engineering Association and the Volusia County MPO Board. Other groups have also included, several Rotary Clubs, Men’s Clubs and the American Marketing Association. But it doesn’t stop there, many high schools have asked that How Shall We Grow? be introduced to their students. These young adults are the future of this region, and what could be more exciting than to have our potential leaders express such enthusiasm on the topic!
myregion.org has established a Speaker’s Bureau comprised of over seventy community professionals who are dedicated to educating, encouraging participation and communicating the shared regional vision to citizens. While the project leaders give many presentations, the Speakers Bureau plays an integral part in reaching community groups across the region.
“Whenever you're trying something new be it at work, at home or in the community, education and communication is the key. In every group I've spoken with, most of the people in the room have heard snippets of information about myregion.org and How Shall We Grow? But my presentation has always been the first where they've been able to hear it and see it all, and ask questions.” says Bob Gosselin, owner of Gosselin Realty and an active presenter for the Speaker’s Bureau.
Kathy Panter, Vice President of Community Leadership for Leadership Orlando, says “It is important for different groups throughout our region to hear the message…and the speaker’s bureau provides the important information, and shows the community the diversity of the process” Kathy has also represented the Speakers Bureau in several community presentations.
How Shall We Grow? has reached over 10,000 citizens but there are 3.2 million more to go! The priority is to continue the engagement of residents of Central Florida and since not everyone has the Internet to access our information, community presentations ensure that every single citizen has a chance to hear the message.
If you are a company, organization or community group interested in having a speaker for a regional update, you may contact Karine Moreau by phone at 407.835.2487 or by email at karine.moreau@orlando.org
