Hello, Neighbors Network Friends
Hello Neighbors Network Friends,
Happy fall! The weather may be cooling down but at Neighbors Network, we have some exciting, hot news to share!
What’s New
We are delighted that Susan Omoto has become Neighbors Network’s Executive Director, thanks to a generous grant from the Edyth Bush Charitable Foundation for this part-time position. This role is dedicated to helping Neighbors Network become well known within and beyond our service area as the reputable 501(c)(3) nonprofit it has been since 2016. (Founded in 2013, Neighbors Network operated initially under the Senior Resource Alliance umbrella.)
Those involved with Neighbors Network, whether as Member, Volunteer, Donor, Board, Staff or Friend, know the positive impact it has on the lives of Members in our community. We are very aware that there are many more people who could benefit not only from becoming Members but who can do good work for the community through volunteering and donating. Getting the word out is the best way to grow Neighbors Network, which will help more people. The Edyth Bush Charitable Foundation is helping to make this dream come true.
David Odahowski, CEO and President of EBCF, said, “At the Edyth Bush Charitable Foundation, we believe in the transformative power of voluntary organizations to meet the evolving needs of our community. In today’s technology-driven world, there is no substitute—no “app”—for the human connection that Neighbors Network provides.
“Neighbors Network exemplifies what it means to build a caring, inclusive community where older adults can thrive independently with dignity and purpose. Through its commitment to volunteerism and neighborly support, the organization offers a cost-effective and compassionate model for aging that strengthens the social fabric of Winter Park and the other communities it serves. We are proud to support Neighbors Network as it fosters meaningful relationships and redefines what it means to age well—together.”
It is with heartfelt gratitude that we accepted this grant. And now to introduce you to Susan Omoto, our new Executive Director. Susan has extensive experience, most recently as Executive Director for Friends of Casa Feliz (2017-2024) and Chief Operating/Resource Officer of the Historical Society of Central Florida (2013– 2017). She is a Certified Fund Raising Executive. “My husband and I moved to Florida from St. Paul, Minnesota in 2006. First to Tampa, then later to Maitland.” Susan’s neighbor and NN volunteer Emily Glickstein suggested Susan consider getting involved with NN. Thank you, Emily!
When Susan attended Coffee and Donuts at Lake Lily and Creative Spirits with small groups of Members, she enjoyed the laughter and was touched by the candor as Members shared stories from their life experiences. She’s gaining an expanded appreciation of this potentially vibrant chapter of our lives.
Susan says, “This organization is full of kind, thoughtful people who genuinely care—and it’s a joy to be part of something that helps its Members feel valued, active, and never alone.”
We look forward to all the innovative ways in which Susan will create greater awareness of and funding for Neighbors Network. The opportunities for positively impacting our communities are truly exciting.
Upcoming
Daylight saving time ends Sunday,
November 2. A Neighbors Network volunteer will reset Members’ clocks, test smoke alarms, change batteries, even change a/c filters if they have them ready.
Spotlight on Volunteers
Meet Herb, one of our technology helpers. He knows all things Apple: iphone, ipad, computer and watch. Herb is concerned about internet and device security and stays current by reading all he can for these devices. His career includes 25 years in marketing banking software developed for commercial banks computers. He directed his company’s sales, advertising and salespeople training.
Herb enjoys sharing what he knows. He taught “paperless office” to MBA students at Rollins College before they offered the program. At home, he scans all papers he wants to keep so that he has his own paperless space. He’s willing to help NN Members if they have or want to buy a scanner to reduce paper in their homes.
Born in St. Augustine, he grew up in Sarasota/Bradenton area. In 1971, he and his wife moved to Orlando for him to start a job with NCR selling computers, before starting several of his own companies.
Herb said, “I have so much to give and enjoy educating and assisting others. It’s a joy to share all I know about computers and technology with others who want to know more. It’s rewarding to help others see the light. I like the challenge. It keeps my brain active.”
At 79, Herb has been working out with a trainer for months and can see and feel the difference. He enjoys kayaking, biking, fishing, and yard work.
We’re glad to have Herb as a Volunteer!
Free to a Good Home
A Member’s husband has had this Baldwin piano in his family since the 1970’s. They would like to give it a new home. Do you know a school, faith group, senior center, friend, or maybe you’d like to have it in your home. You can pick it up and take it away free.
Thank You
We are forever grateful for your interest, support and involvement with Neighbors Network. Don’t hesitate to pass this newsletter on to friends you think may be interested. If you ever have questions or ideas you would like to share, please contact us.
We wish you a delightful autumn. Enjoy your October!
Your friends at Neighbors Network