West Orange Foundation

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About

The West Orange Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization which serves as the community-based, philanthropic arm of the West Orange Chamber of Commerce. With a vision of creating broader community reach, streamlining the Chamber’s philanthropic and community outreach programs, and the engagement of more industries and businesses, the Foundation supports many of the Chamber’s initiatives. The Foundation prides itself on supporting non-profit organizations and those in their workforce who truly make a difference in the lives of so many in the West Orange community.

Mission

Enrich our community so that it is a highly sought-after place to live, work, and play.

Vision

-Create a broader community reach through philanthropy and community outreach programs

-Engage more industries & businesses

-Create and embolden alliances

-Foster positive change, health, and growth

Board of Directors

Kimberly Hardy, Ph.D.

Chair of the Board

Betsy VanderLey

Secretary

Kari Vargas

Treasurer

Stephen Lewis

President/CEO

John McReynolds

Officer

Pam Thomas

Officer

West Orange Foundation Grant

For over the years, the West Orange Foundation and the Committee of One Hundred and One (C101) have supported projects and local nonprofit organizations that positively contribute to our community.

2023 Grants

The grants were made possible through the generous donation of community leaders, most of which are members of the West Orange Chamber. In 2023, the focus was “Food Insecurity”. The Foundation recognizes the many challenges still adversely affecting the West Orange Community with food insecurity as one of the top dilemmas left to be tackled. The lack of consistent access to food for members of our community is heartbreaking.

Our grant program is available to non-profit organizations that specifically address food insecurity in the West Orange Community. Organizations must use the funds awarded in the communities of Dr. Phillips, Gotha, Horizon West, Lake Avalon, MetroWest, Oakland, Ocoee, Orlo Vista, Pine Hills, Windermere or Winter Garden.

 

THE 2023 GRANT AWARD RECIPIENTS

 

Leadership West Orange

 

 

Leadership West Orange, a program of the West Orange Foundation and facilitated by the West Orange Chamber of Commerce, is a “hands-on” non-traditional learning environment designed to educate future leaders from the West Orange community. Now in its 31st year, through a series of classes held monthly, the mission of raising awareness of key elements of the West Orange Community are undertaken. Each session entails a combination of lectures, tours, and behind-the-scenes activities.

Over two decades, more than 400 local leaders have successfully participated and are now Leadership West Orange graduates. Participants gain exposure to prominent businesses, economic initiatives, and a behind-the-scenes look into critical issues and challenges facing Central Florida.

The West Orange Foundation’s vision is to create a broader community reach through philanthropy and community outreach programs. Additionally, the Foundation strives to engage more industries and businesses, foster positive changes, and not only create but also inspire alliances. With a mission of enriching the West Orange community so that it is a highly sought after area to live, work, and play, the Leadership West Orange program is a progressive tool for advancing these goals.

Participants who take up the leadership challenge can expect to explore subjects and industries such as:

Civics and Government
Environment and Sustainability
Manufacturing and Distribution
Tourism
Education: Traditional and Non-Traditional
Health and Wellness
Sports
Transportation and Infrastructure

 

Like no others, the Leadership West Orange program will open the mind, expand viewpoints, and encourage discussions. Preserving our past, embracing our present, and visioning and planning our future are not only crucial but critical for our area to thrive. And this is an endeavor very important to the West Orange Foundation.

To find out more about this unique and exceptional program, contact Artena Greene at (407) 656-1304 or via email at agreene@wochamber.com. The deadline for submitting a completed application is Friday, August 8, 2024. Don’t delay; reserve your spot today! Space is limited.

Click Here to Begin Your Leadership Journey

The Leadership West Orange program is presented by AdventHealth and Duke Energy.

 

News

WINTER GARDEN, FL. – We are incredibly proud to announce that the West Orange Foundation has made a generous donation to the Southeastern Food Bank. On July 27, the CEO/Founder Mark Anthony accepted the donation check, that will make a significant impact on those in need. Together, we’re making a difference in our community, one meal at a time.

For more than three decades, Southeastern Food Bank has remained steadfast in its mission to serve the state of Florida. We are passionate about spreading the love of Jesus Christ through the distribution of food and essential supplies. With a reach that spans 26 counties, we touch the lives of families, instilling hope in Christ every single day.

 

Danniel J. Petro Scholarship

Danniel J. Petro Scholarship of the West Orange Foundation

The Danniel J. Petro Scholarship fund was established to make it possible for eligible students from local high schools in Orange County, both public and private, to further their education at one of the following educational institutions: Valencia College, Orange Technical College, or the University of Central Florida.

The West Orange Foundation is able to fund this scholarship program through the generosity of the Petro Family Foundation and Chamber member sponsors. Program administration and implantation is done in partnership with the West Orange Chamber of Commerce.

2024 Scholarship Winners

The West Orange Foundation proudly announced the 2024 Danniel J. Petro Scholarship Award recipients in May 2024. After a vigorous application process, these outstanding students were chosen to receive awards to help advance their education. The 2024 recipients are:

Aida Isaac

Aida is a graduate of Dr. Phillips High School, and will attend the University of Central Florida.

Madeleine Martin

Madeleine is a graduate of West Orange High School, and will attend University of Central Florida.

Isabella McLeggon

Isabella is a graduate of Ocoee High School, and will attend the University of Central Florida.

Erlensky Regis

Erlensky is a graduate of Ocoee High School, and will attend University of Central Florida.

Kishen Sukhu

Kishen is a graduate of Ocoee West High School, and will attend University of Central Florida.

We wish them the best of luck and know they are on the path to success as they have embarked on their next educational journey.

 

Applying for a Danniel J. Petro Scholarship

The Danniel J. Petro Scholarship is awarded to high school seniors who not only reside in the West Orange area, but also attend schools within West Orange County. Qualifying residential areas are: Dr. Phillips, Gotha, Horizon West, Lake Avalon, MetroWest, Oakland, Ocoee, Orlo Vista, Pine Hills, Windermere and Winter Garden.

In addition to being a high school senior, students must meet additional eligibility requirements, such as:

– Attending a high school in a qualifying area.

– Having a current minimum GPA of 2.75 (either weighted or unweighted).

– And, they must have applied for entry to one of the eligible educational institutions which are Valencia College, Orange Technical College, or the University of Central Florida.

Eligible students are encouraged to complete and submit the application in its entirety. To obtain this year’s application, click here. For additional information, contact Artena Greene at agreene@wochamber.com.

 

2024 Danniel J. Petro Scholarship Application Packet

 

West Orange Chamber of Commerce (WOCC), in partnership with the West Orange Foundation (WOF), celebrates outstanding students at its annual Education Awards Ceremony