Spark the Arts TONIGHT, UCF's Crossroads Speaker Series, and More!

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WELCOME EMMA STRAUSS TO DOP!
Please join us in welcoming Emma Strauss as DOP's new Marketing & Events Manager! With a strong background in marketing, event management, and nonprofit development, Emma leverages her expertise to support the growth of Downtown Orlando's vibrant community.

In her role, Emma will oversee DOP’s marketing efforts and event initiatives, connecting residents, businesses, and stakeholders to the heart of Downtown Orlando. She is passionate about uniting people through stories and experiences that showcase the unique character of the city, both in person and online.

Emma graduated from the University of Central Florida in 2022 with a Bachelor's degree in Film. In her spare time, Emma enjoys hiking, thrifting, and attending concerts — often combining all three while traveling the world in search of new adventures.

DOWNTOWN BUSINESS NEWS
Support the Red Cross' Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts
Hurricane Helene’s catastrophic damage spans hundreds of miles and has uprooted lives and communities forever. In response to Hurricane Helene, the American Red Cross has 10 disaster relief operations (DROs) spanning 10 different states. The hazards caused by Helene are different for various areas across the Southeast. Each community is facing unique struggles and the timeline for recovery will vary. From supporting over 70 shelters, providing more than 40,000 meals and snacks, and many other relief efforts, the Red Cross' massive response to the hurricane's impact is ensuring no one faces this challenge alone. Click here to support their efforts by making a donation or sharing the link today.

FAIRWINDS Credit Union Raises $150,000 in Annual Give Generously Campaign
Yesterday, October 2, FAIRWINDS Credit Union announced the total amount raised during its annual Give Generously Campaign at a reception honoring its non-profit partner recipients and employees. Each year FAIRWINDS hosts an employee fundraising campaign to benefit local non-profit organizations in the community. The money raised will impact nonprofit organizations; the FAIRWINDS Foundation, Heart of Florida United Way, United Arts of Central Florida, and Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando.

New Luminary Market Launched at Luminary Green Park
The City of Orlando's Downtown Development Board launched a newly created market - Luminary Market. Taking place on the first Wednesday of each month in Creative Village (except December 2024 and January 2025), this market will showcase between 20 to 25 unique vendors, featuring local favorites and curated goods. Visitors are encouraged to stay for KaleidoScope 360°, an outdoor movie series. This family-friendly film event will further establish Luminary Green Park as a cultural hub, bringing together community members to enjoy films under the stars.

All Three Orlando Soccer Teams Make History
For the first time in the organization’s history, each of Orlando’s professional soccer teams has clinched their places in the 2024 playoffs with Major League Soccer’s Orlando City SC, the National Women’s Soccer League’s Orlando Pride and MLS NEXT Pro’s Orlando City B all earning playoff berths. Congratulations on this amazing feat! For more information and tickets, please click the links above.

DTO EVENTS
Spark the Arts is TONIGHT!
Join United Arts for First Thursday at Spark the Arts Studios TONIGHT, October 3rd, from 4-7pm. As part of a new partnership with Highwoods Properties, United Arts is turning commercial spaces into thriving artist residencies and galleries. These spaces help local artists flourish and bring workshops and creativity to the heart of our downtown community. The studios are located at 300 S. Orange Ave, Ste 150, Orlando, FL 32801 and parking is available in the Bank of America parking garage or on the street.

UCF Crossroads Speaker Series & 5th Anniversary Reception
Don't miss UCF's Crossroads Speaker Series on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at UCF Downtown Dr. Phillips Academic Commons. This annual event spotlights the impact corporate leadership can create for those who live and work in their communities – and the important strategic goals that can be accomplished through partnership with nonprofit organizations. UCF Downtown and Valencia College's 5th Anniversary Celebration will take place during a private reception following the Crossroads Speaker Series. Register by Friday, October 4th to secure your spot!

Citrus Social
Join the Citrus Club on Wednesday, October 9, from 4-7pm for happy hour, live music, and networking! This community-building event will feature the Orlando Sports Foundation and is complimentary for members or $20 for non-members and guests. Click here to learn more and get your tickets!

Celebrating Watermark's 30 Years at the History Center
Visit the Orange County Regional History Center now through December 25th to experience special exhibit; Watermark, focused on championing the interests of the LGBTQ+ community throughout Florida. The exhibition features a retrospective of 30 of the publication’s most impactful covers, which illustrate the profound journey of LGBTQ+ history over the past three decades.

WELCOME DOP'S NEW MEMBERS!
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