Exciting developments are underway in Tangelo Park! The Collage Companies, in partnership with Orange County, has officially broken ground on a new $10 million state-of-the-art Community Action Center—a significant investment in the neighborhood’s future.
As the ninth Community Action Center in the county, this facility is designed to provide essential social programs and resources to low-income residents, fostering opportunities for education, growth, and well-being across multiple generations.
A Project Rooted in Community
During the February 3rd groundbreaking ceremony, Orange County officials, community members, and even preschoolers from Tangelo Park Elementary gathered to celebrate the start of construction on a facility that will serve families for generations to come.
Mayor Jerry Demings emphasized the long-term impact of the center, stating: “This is all about the future. It’s a multi-generational project that is all about positivity and making Tangelo Park the community that it can be.”
For The Collage Companies, this project represents more than just construction—it’s about building a foundation for opportunity. Rob Maphis, President of The Collage Companies, shared: “This groundbreaking represents more than just the start of construction—it’s the foundation for future opportunities. We are honored to partner with Orange County on a project that will serve generations to come, providing essential resources and a space for community growth in Tangelo Park.”
Harris Rosen’s Legacy
This new center will be built next to the Harris Rosen YMCA, a testament to the enduring legacy of Harris Rosen, a philanthropist whose commitment to Tangelo Park has transformed the community. In 1993, Rosen initiated the Tangelo Park Program, offering:
- Free preschool for all two-, three-, and four-year-old children in the neighborhood.
- Full college or vocational school scholarships, including tuition, room and board, and books, for every graduating high school senior from Tangelo Park.
These initiatives have led to a near 100% high school graduation rate in the community, significantly reducing crime rates and increasing property values. Rosen’s dedication has provided countless opportunities for residents, fostering a culture of education and growth.
Once completed, the new Community Action Center will offer:
- An outdoor swimming pool
- A computer lab
- Multipurpose rooms for educational and social programs
- A renovated YMCA building with an indoor basketball court
For Tangelo Park resident Samuel Butler, who has lived in the neighborhood for over 50 years, this investment is more than just a new facility—it’s a symbol of hope and opportunity.
“It’s going to enhance the lives of the people in this community, the children who have to play in the streets now. It’s going to give them a place, a safe place where they can come and play, a place away from home where their parents don’t have to worry about them. And a place where our seniors can grow old together.”
Looking Ahead
Construction is expected to last about a year, with the new Tangelo Park Community Action Center set to open in Fall 2025. At The Collage Companies, we are honored to bring this vision to life, continuing our mission of building spaces that strengthen communities and create lasting impact.
Check out highlights from the groundbreaking below!
WKMG Channel 6 (CBS)
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WFTV Channel 9 (ABC)
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FOX 35:
Broadcast:http://mms.tveyes.com/PlaybackPortal.aspx?SavedEditID=2b6645f3-b320-47f9-b6f8-e2e41da1557b
WESH Channel 2 (NBC)
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Spectrum News-13:
Broadcast: https://mms.tveyes.com/PlaybackPortal.aspx?SavedEditID=67b4c3ae-1955-46dc-8150-daa345534351