Sarasota County receives ‘All-America County’ designation
 SARASOTA COUNTY (MONDAY, JUNE 12,
2006) - The citizens of
Sarasota County received the designation of “All-America County”
at the 57th Annual All-America City Awards in Anaheim, Calif.
The county is one of 10 communities in 2006 to receive the
prestigious designation by the National Civic League. The award
recognizes citizen-led efforts in
neighborhoods, cities, counties and regions that improve the
quality of life for all. It also encourages and recognizes civic
excellence, honoring the communities in which citizens,
government, businesses and non-profit organizations demonstrate
successful resolution of critical community issues. Since 1949,
more than 4,000 communities have participated and nearly 500
have been recognized as an All-America City.
“I think that it is truly recognition of the community we live
in. We are so blessed with outstanding caring and giving
individuals who help others and rally to preserve and enhance
our way of life and our environment,” stated County Commissioner
Shannon Staub.
The award application showcased three “community building”
stories that are “best in their class” at addressing dynamic
community challenges:
The Neighborhood Environmental Stewardship Team (NEST), a
volunteer organization
that raises awareness of our native habitats.
“A Special Time” and “Comfort Connection,” non-profit,
non-denominational caregiver respite programs offering relief to
caregivers of adult patients.
Home Computers for Sarasota County Students, a community network
of businesses and individuals who donate upgraded used home
computers to students whose families cannot afford to buy them.
These stories help citizens become more understanding,
compassionate and successful in finding solutions to community
challenges. Self-organizing community teams also create the
future they want for their families and neighborhood.
Organizations such as SCOPE (Sarasota County Openly Plans for
Excellence) serve as a vehicle to help citizens do these types
of initiatives. SCOPE breathes life into stories highlighted by
ensuring that everyone has a role in making the county a viable
community.
“This award is something for our citizens to remember and build
upon for many years to come. Being recognized as an All-America
County is something to be proud of and confirms the power of
community-led initiatives. This recognition will have a
long-lasting effect on the Sarasota community,” said County
Commission Chairman David Mills.
The Sarasota County School District also plays a key role in
collaborating with citizens to make the county a better place in
which to grow up and receive an excellent education.
“The district and the county government share a common vision —
creating the
finest living
and learning community in the nation,” noted Sarasota County
Schools Superintendent Dr. Gary Norris. “We are well on our way
to achieving that vision through collaborative efforts of the
two organizations and the support of our involved citizens.
Earning the All-America County designation validates Sarasota
County’s commitment to excellence and caring.”
The National Civic League is one of the leading proponents of
citizen democracy in the United States. Founded in 1894 by
Theodore Roosevelt and other government reformers, it is a
nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to building
community and promoting political reform at the local level. For
more information, visit the National Civic League Web site.
Local delegation heading to All-America Award finals
SARASOTA COUNTY (MONDAY, JUNE 5,
2006) A Sarasota County community group of
21 people is heading to the All-America City Award final judging
in Anaheim, Calif. County Administrator Jim Ley and County
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Gary Norris are members of the
delegation. Sarasota County is one of 30 finalist communities
for the 2006 All-America City Award given annually by the
National Civic League. The 57th Annual All-America City Awards
final judging will occur in Anaheim on Saturday and Sunday, June
10 and 11.
Sarasota County’s application for the
All-America City award showcases three “community building”
stories:
- The Neighborhood Environmental
Stewardship Team (NEST), a volunteer organization that
raises awareness of our native habitats.
- A Special Time” and “Comfort Connection,”
non-profit, non-denominational caregiver respite programs
offering relief to caregivers of adult patients.
- Home Computers for Sarasota County
Students, a community network of businesses and individuals
who donate upgraded used home computers to students whose
families cannot afford to buy them
The award program is the nation's oldest
community recognition effort. It recognizes communities of all
sizes, including neighborhoods, towns, cities, counties and
regions that have made major progress in meeting their most
important needs. |
City of North Port