DOWNTOWN BUSINESS NEWS
AdventHealth Gifted $1 Million Each to Two Orlando Nonprofits
During the holiday season, AdventHealth surprised two local nonprofit organizations, New Image Youth Center (NIYC) and IDignity, with a special gift of $1 million each. NIYC is an after-school and summer program providing mental health services to youth in Parramore, and working to create a safe space for children to learn and grow. IDignity collaborates with government agencies, churches, businesses, and the community to assist the disadvantaged through the complex process of obtaining legal identification. AdventHealth's gift will help NIYC build their new permanent home in Parramore and fund IDignity's first operational headquarters in downtown Orlando. Read the full story here!

Applications Now Open for the Special Events Grant Program
Are you thinking about hosting an event downtown? The CRA has your back with the Special Events Grant Program! Applications are now open for events that will forge connections and give the local economy a boost, just apply by Thursday, February 1, 2024, 11:59pm. For more information and eligibility requirements, click here.

Black History Month Call for Artists
The City of Orlando is looking for local visual artists to display their artwork in celebration of Black History Month from February 2 to March 31, 2024 in the Terrace Gallery at Orlando City Hall. Art is an intrinsic part of Black heritage and culture, and this year's theme, "African Americans and the Arts," presents an opportunity for local artists to showcase African American history and celebrate the many lasting contributions Black Americans have had on visual arts, performing arts, literature, film, music, and cultural movements. The submission deadline is Sunday, January 7, 2024 by 11:59pm. Learn more and make your submission here!

U.S. Olympic Marathon Team Trials
Orlando will soon welcome the nation's elite male and female long-distance runners to compete at the U.S. Olympic Team Trials – Marathon for the chance to represent Team USA at the Olympic Games Paris 2024! Witness the power of human potential and the spirit of sportsmanship on Saturday, February 3, 2024. Volunteers and spectators alike are encouraged to come together and line the streets of downtown Orlando to cheer, applaud, and uplift our country's most remarkable runners. As the first city in Florida to host this prestigious event, the City of Orlando, Orange County, Track Shack Events, the Greater Orlando Sports Commission, USA Track & Field, and the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee, are proud that Orlando will be home to this monumental event. Click here for more event information!