Building a Healthier Community, Together

May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, a time that reminds us how vital emotional and psychological well-being are to the overall health of a community. As I reflect on this, I am reminded of an important community health assessment conducted several years ago by AdventHealth in partnership with Avalon Park Group. We set out to better understand what medical resources were most needed in Avalon Park to achieve our shared vision of becoming Central Florida’s healthiest community.

What stood out clearly then—and remains true today—is the overwhelming need for greater access to mental health services. The results pointed not just to a lack of providers, but to a deeper truth: mental health is a foundation for strong, resilient communities, and it is often the area that needs the most support.

Although we at Avalon Park Group are not mental health professionals, my wife Jill—who holds a Ph.D. in Psychology—has often reminded me of the timeless principle: mens sana in corpore sano—a healthy mind in a healthy body. It is a concept we believe in deeply as we plan and build our communities.

At Avalon Park, we understand that the design of a neighborhood can have a strong impact on the mental well-being of the residents that live there. That is why we focus not only on physical infrastructure but also on emotional and social infrastructure. When neighbors know each other, when families feel safe, and when people feel connected, communities thrive. That sense of belonging can be one of the most powerful protectors of mental health.

We also believe in offering a wide variety of outlets for the mind, body, and spirit. Every person’s path to well-being looks a little different, so our goal is to create an environment that supports all of them.  For the body there are recreational spaces, the East Orlando Gym, F45, yoga in the park, youth sports, and walkable neighborhoods. For the mind there is access to mental health professionals, community art workshops, live music, and continuing education. For the spirit there are spaces for worship, reflection, and service, open to all faiths and backgrounds

One of the greatest advantages of Avalon Park is that daily life is all within reach—from medical care and schools to places for spiritual growth and community connection. This walkable, integrated design helps reduce stress, increase access to care, and foster a stronger, more supportive environment.

Over the past year, we have continued to expand our mental health support efforts—welcoming new providers and forming partnerships with organizations dedicated to emotional well-being. We are also increasing programs that offer safe and supportive spaces for connection and self-expression, including youth mentorship, art therapy, and educational workshops. This month, we are pleased to introduce a new resource from local provider Ellie Mental Health, who will be sharing a series of helpful tools and information throughout May, shaped directly by feedback gathered through a community survey.

I often think back to a service I attended in Bithlo led by our long-time friend, Pastor Dale Brooks. He reminded us all that while there are many practical needs—clean water, food, and shelter—the spiritual and emotional needs of a community are just as urgent. Faith, purpose, and service can be healing forces.

In that spirit, I encourage you to give back this month. Acts of service—whether volunteering at a local school, helping a neighbor, or supporting a local nonprofit—are powerful tools for cultivating positive mental health. When we give, we connect. And when we connect, we strengthen the very fabric of our community.

With the focus on mental health in the May, I challenge us all to recommit to building a community where well-being-in all its forms-is within reach for everyone. Together, we can shape a place where the mind, body, and spirit are not just cared for—but truly thrive.