The group of faculty, staff and community leaders discussed how UCF can work with the community by developing partnerships with schools, businesses and civic organizations.
At the Parramore Community Garden, they learned how volunteers grow and share organic produce.
The 4,500-square-foot garden, which opened in 2009, contains 18 beds that produce vegetables and herbs.
At Sunlite Grocery, Orlando City Commissioner Regina Hill explained a city program that encourages the store’s owners to provide fresh fruits and vegetables.
At the Wells’ Built Museum of African American History and Culture, the team learned about the area’s rich heritage.
The museum, which was originally built by Dr. William Wells in 1921 as a hotel for African-Americans when Florida was segregated, now showcases African art and memorabilia from the Civil Rights Era.
Jones High School hosted the UCF team for a panel discussion featuring seniors who take part in a mentoring program with the City of Orlando's Parramore Kidz Zone.
During the discussion, which was led by UCF College of Health and Public Affairs associate dean Melvin Rogers (standing), the students shared their aspirations to attend college.
Lisa Early, director of the City of Orlando Department of Families, Parks and Recreation, thanked the Jones seniors for sharing their stories with the UCF team.
“I believe that everyone went home with a renewed awareness of why building a community-university partnership that truly strengthens the community, and creates opportunities for its young people and their families, is such a critical component of UCF Downtown.” – Michael Frumkin, dean of the College of Health and Public Affairs