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There’s something undeniably energizing about turning the page from December to January. It’s our chance to press reset, start fresh and fix our gaze on the horizon of what’s ahead.
So, how will you make the most of everything 2025 has to offer?
If starting a new chapter—and finding a new home—are on your mind, we think this could be your year. And with everything happening at Sunbridge, we think we’re the perfect place to start your journey.
Here are 5 reasons why you should make the move to Sunbridge this year.
1. Abundant Nature
We didn’t coin the phrase “go get a breath of fresh air,” but we definitely live by it. Did you know spending as little as 15 minutes outside can help reduce stress? Science tells us it’s in our DNA to spend more time in nature, and we’ve designed our community to make that ridiculously easy.
Here, the lines between natural splendor and neighborhood accessibility blend with spectacular results. Our community is built around the surrounding oak hammocks, marshes and pristine Central Florida landscapes. With community-wide access to trails that tunnel through tranquil canopies, you’re always just a short walk away from the peace of unspoiled nature.
Whether you’re hiking, exploring, or simply taking a moment to unplug, abundant and rejuvenating nature is never too far from your front (or back) door.
2. Two Neighborhoods, One-of-a-Kind Homes
Maybe you’re into open floorplans with space to spread out, or maybe you’re ready for something cozier to seriously embrace your empty-nester era. We have two distinct neighborhoods with homes designed to help you tell your unique story.
Weslyn Park: Where playful parks, open spaces and nature trails meet homes built for every stage of life. These homes are constructed with sustainable materials and feature a standard 4.25 kW rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system.
Del Webb Sunbridge: Our 55+ community that feels like a private retreat, complete with low-maintenance living and exclusive perks like a resort-style pool and neighborhood tavern. Here, residents can set their own pace and live exactly how they choose—as active or relaxed as they want. Join a community interest group, pick up that hobby you’ve always wanted to try, attend a game night or participate in a seminar.
All our homes are crafted with care by some of the most trusted builders around, including Ashton Woods, Craft Homes, David Weekley Homes and Toll Brothers. These partnerships ensure that a home in Sunbridge isn’t just on trend, but built to last.
3. Year-Round Community Connections
Besides our naturehood (and of course, Florida’s perfect weather), we’ve got another great reason to get outside at Sunbridge: a jam-packed calendar full of seasonal events. From outdoor yoga sessions to craft beer tastings to family movie nights, our activities give you any excuse to explore, convert neighbors into friends, and make new annual traditions. Here’s a short preview of what’s on our calendar for 2025:
Yoga on the Green
Food Truck Friday
Spring Fling
Hometown Harvest
Starry Night
4. Coming Soon: The Watershed
We’re gearing up to break ground on something seriously exciting—a resort-style amenity center within The Watershed. We’re pulling out all the stops; offering kayaking, a zero-entry pool, a new restaurant, and direct trail access—all right around the corner in Weslyn Park. Set to debut in 2026, you can see a sneak peek of the renderings now. Trust us, it’ll be worth the wait.
5. True Sustainability
Saying we’re eco-friendly is one thing—proving it is another. In Sunbridge, we take real action to show our commitment to sustainability and genuine care for the environment.
That’s why last spring we launched the Florida Headwaters Foundation and headquartered its nature center right here at Basecamp. The foundation is relentlessly focused on safeguarding Central Florida’s most vital natural resource: the waters that originate here and feed into the vast network of lakes and rivers, sustaining the diverse wildlife and ecosystems that define our state.
And we’re just getting started. We’re constantly adding more volunteer opportunities —like the recent 124th Christmas Bird Count—and engaging students with hands-on learning at our Voyager K-8 school. The foundation makes it easy for residents to make a real impact.
See the Florida Headwaters homepage for more ways to get involved.
2025 is looking bright! We hope you’ll explore everything we have to offer and make this year the year you call Sunbridge home.
Make a resolution to find your dream home. Discover all our new home options now.
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As we step forward into the magic of the season, we’re taking a moment to reflect on what we’re most grateful for: the beauty of our naturehood, the vibrancy of our community and the little things we can do to keep them in harmony.
After all, the holidays aren’t just the unofficial start of winter; they’re also the perfect time to hit pause, take stock and rethink how we can live more sustainably in the months ahead. With a few simple shifts, you can make this season both joyful and mindful.
Here are some ideas to help you get started!
1. Green up your holiday gatherings
Can you host an epic holiday party and help the planet? Absolutely! From sustainable gift wrapping, serving eco-friendly food and drinks to swapping incandescent decorative lights for LEDs, going greener is easier than you think. In fact, we think it might just make any celebration even more memorable.
2. Winter Wanderland
While other states may be hunkering down for a long winter’s nap this time of year, Florida’s sunshine and mild temps invite you to get outside. Take advantage of low-impact outdoor activities like walking, biking – or even birdwatching! Venture over to Basecamp, your gateway to over two miles of quiet, curious and unspoiled naturehood trails.
3. Give your old stuff a second shot
Donating gently used items before the holiday rush keeps them out of landfills and ensures they’re available for holiday shoppers. It’s a simple way to reduce waste and lighten the environmental load. Not to mention the sweet euphoria of a good declutter.
4. Volunteer
Your time and energy can be powerful resources. Why not channel them into something meaningful? The Florida Headwaters Foundation is a great place to start. Its mission, like Sunbridge’s, works to protect the land and water that sustain our community. Get involved by volunteering for the Audubon Kissimmee Valley Christmas Bird Count on Dec. 22. This event offers a rare glimpse into bird migration patterns—key indicators of our region’s habitat health.
5. Avoid Single-Use Plastics
Swap single-use cups for reusable mugs and bottles. While you’re at it, consider adding stainless steel or glass straws to your kitchen drawer of earth-friendly items. And here’s another tip: when ordering takeout, request no disposable cutlery—you likely don’t need it anyway! Bonus points: Personalized mugs and water bottles make thoughtful and eco-friendly holiday gifts.
6. Recycle Right
Be sure to check the Osceola County recycling guidelines to keep your bin free of non-recyclables—one wrong item can send the whole batch to the landfill. And don’t forget: no plastic bags! They jam up sorting machines at recycling facilities and often end up as waste. Thinking greener? Try an in-home composting system to reduce waste AND nourish your plants.
7. Make your home more energy efficient.
Small changes can make a big difference. When temperatures start to drop, turn your thermostat down a degree or two—it adds up. Flip your ceiling fans clockwise to move that warm air around. Let the sun in during the day, then close your blinds at night to keep the cold out. Simple, smart, and cozy!
In Sunbridge, we believe you can make a lasting impact by leaving a smaller footprint. How are you planning to make your holiday traditions more sustainable? We’d love to hear your ideas!
The right time. The perfect place. Your dream home is waiting.
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The more, the merrier—that’s what the season is all about, right? More moments to gather ’round, more chances to show gratitude, and, yes, maybe even adding one more ugly sweater to the collection.
When it comes to the holidays, we’re all for more. But when “more” means endless prompts to online deals, Black Friday buzz and super-secret Cyber Monday promo codes, it can overfill our carts and feel a little…much.
Fear not, we think we’ve got the perfect antidote.
Instead of endlessly scrolling through yet another deal, how about trading that screen time for something way more refreshing? Let’s reclaim our holidays by taking more time to relax, recharge, and ramble through the wonder that’s all around us. This season, let’s say YES to fresh air and NO to screentime overload.
Here are our top five ways to get outside this holiday season, Sunbridge-style.
1. Beginnings at Basecamp
The heart of outdoor adventures in Sunbridge! Our community trailhead, home to our Info Yurt and pretty much the best place to kick off any fresh-air fun– whether you’re going for a hike, picnicking on the pavilion or chasing a golden hour sunset. Whatever your next outdoor moment is, it begins here. And speaking of outdoor excursions, circle November 30 on your calendar for Starry Night! It’s our 100% screen-free, totally in-real-life, holiday festival happening right here at Basecamp. Get all the details and save the date here.
2. Acorn Park and Chill
Acorn Park is full of spots just waiting to be your new happy place. Park yourself under a shady tree or out on the Great Lawn. Log off, let go and take that nap you’ve totally earned.
3. Namaste Your Way
Curb your Sunday Scaries with a little Sunbridge Zen. Breathe deep, stretch out and calm your mind at one of our Sunday morning yoga sessions. Just bring your mat—we’ll supply the good vibes.
4. Now Open: The New Nature Center
Haven’t been to the new Nature Center from The Florida Headwaters Foundation? It’s time. Wildlife enthusiasts, rejoice! This place is a must-see and perfect for anyone curious about the amazing nature we’re lucky to call home.
5. Wander the Trails
Our list comes full circle back at Basecamp—your gateway to over two miles of softly winding, gently rolling, perfectly unpaved trails. Walk, run or ride, these trails are hands-down our favorite way to “get away,” even if it’s in our own backyard.
In our community, nature isn’t just part of the scenery—it’s what helps us thrive. That’s why we think getting outside is the gift that keeps on giving.
So, how about starting a new holiday tradition? Let’s swap screen time for sunshine, fresh air and a whole lot more of the great outdoors.
Happy trails!
Ready to make the move to Sunbridge? Click here to view our new homes.
It’s no secret—we’re a little obsessed with maps! In a community that’s growing like ours, maps do more than just guide us; they highlight the connections that bring us closer together.
When we first put Weslyn Park on the map as one of our original neighborhoods, we aimed to connect residents with the natural beauty surrounding them while ensuring smart, future-ready solutions were within reach in every home.
Whether in charming townhomes or 60-foot single-family homesites, over the last few years, an ever-expanding group of residents have already staked their spot on this map.
Now we’re thrilled to announce: Weslyn Park is growing! Find a home on our map here
a new chapter
Weslyn Park’s expansion will add around 250 new homesites (cue the confetti), including 175 single-family homes and 75 townhomes, all designed to make you feel right at home and embrace the Sunbridge lifestyle. We’re excited to welcome back some of our favorite builders, like Ashton Woods, Craft Homes, and David Weekley Homes. They continue to inspire us with a variety of architectural styles—from traditional to more contemporary –that make it easy for everyone to find their perfect fit.
sustainable ways
Just like in our current neighborhood, all new homes will feature frame-only construction and durable James Hardie® siding. We’re committed to sustainable living, so you can expect energy efficiency, sustainable materials and thoughtful design and construction in every home. Basically, your house is going to be doing its part to save the planet while looking awesome.
future-ready, built-In
Each new home is crafted to redefine future-ready living. Residents can enjoy super-fast, move-in-ready Wi-Fi with speeds up to 10G, along with access to “over-the-top” (OTT) services. OTT delivers TV content directly through a high-speed internet connection, allowing you to say goodbye to cable and satellite providers. With various package options, you can enjoy a traditional cable experience combined with all the perks of streaming services—it’s the unicorn of internet connectivity!
Every home also features a standard 4.25 kW rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system, transforming our eco-friendly values into viable clean energy solutions. So, not only are you living in a cool, future-ready house, but you’re also helping the planet by using clean energy. Go, you!
voyager: around the corner
Weslyn Park’s next phase is ideally located near our K-8 Voyager school, giving our families with enrolled students the most walkable, convenient and easiest commute ever, to and from campus. How cool is that?
find your place on our map
Just like our current Weslyn Park neighborhood, you can expect Instagram-worthy views of open grassy fields shaded by native live oaks to surround you. With easy access to our network of hiking trails and Acorn Park, you’ll find that a simple stroll around the block or stepping onto your front porch is all it takes to disconnect from daily routines and reconnect with nature and each other.
We’re so excited for this next chapter, and we can’t wait for you to be a part of it!
Homes in Weslyn Park’s new offering are available now. For more information, follow us on social media or visit SunbridgeFl.com.
As summer slowly fades into fall, change is in the air. It’s a timely reminder that during September, as we fully embrace Environmental Awareness Month, the changes we’re making in our community—from renewable energy options to being more mindful of the natural splendor that surrounds us—can make a significant difference creating a more sustainable future for our region.
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword here; it’s a part of who we are. And we invite you to be a part of it, too.
Come with us as we celebrate our shared naturehood and explore ways we’re making a lasting impact together.
Driven by Stewardship
Some simply see Sunbridge as a planned community. We see it as part of a bigger plan. The land we occupy has long played a keystone role in balancing wildlife, water and climate in our region. We’re committed to being stewards of this relationship, working not just alongside nature but collaborating with it, helping maintain one of the world’s most ecologically diverse areas. This shapes how we grow and motivates us to innovate, striving to make things better than when we started.
Live the Mission
This month, the team at Florida Headwaters Foundation is thrilled to have opened their nature center at Basecamp. We’re excited to support this organization as it provides events, educational programs and a myriad of volunteer opportunities to the community. These will allow our residents to get involved and embrace the mission of this meaningful program every day.
Residents will be able to take advantage of guided bus tours around Lake Myrtle, followed by a hike through the oak hammock’s sandy hills. For younger naturehood dwellers, their Little Explorers program offers weekly activities open to residents and the public.
To Protect & Preserve
We’re all about keeping our local watershed healthy. It’s a profound responsibility we uphold through thoughtful actions like regular monitoring and smart landscaping centered around native plants. Our next ambitious goal to preserve this vital resource? Reducing our per-person water use to well below that of a typical community our size.
An Ecological Focus
Take a walk down any one of Sunbridge’s tree-lined streets or swing by Basecamp, and you’ll see our commitment to ecological preservation firsthand. We’ve worked with certified arborists to transplant hundreds of trees and started our own honeybee colonies to support local pollination. We’re always exploring new ways to protect Central Florida’s native flora and fauna.
Clean Energy Efficiency
In our Weslyn Park neighborhood, every home comes equipped with solar panels. Many homes also feature top-rated, high-efficiency features like smart thermostats, advanced HVAC systems and low-emissivity windows—designed to keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient.
For more information on how we’re celebrating Environmental Awareness Month in Sunbridge, check us out on social and review our events page. You’ll find all sorts of ways to explore and get involved in our uniquely Florida naturehood all year long.
Here’s to a wonderful month of discovery, engagement and positive impact. See you out there!
Welcome to the Sunbridge Builder Spotlight Series: A look at the best-in-class builders turning our vision of Living Florida into reality. These homes blend classic Florida architecture with innovative and energy-efficient upgrades; in this piece, we take a deep dive into the design-forward details of Ashton Woods.
The Designer’s Dream Home
Ashton Woods believes in thoughtful design as its first, second, and third nature—the driving principle behind every decision in the homebuilding process.
Featuring floor plans that prioritize harmony and rhythm, these homes are built to honor everyday moments by turning function into something both beautiful and personal—emphasizing collaboration during design so that the homes they build personify the people who will live in them.
The bottom line? Irresistible homes that are simply easy to live in, homes that fit uniquely with the local landscaping.
With over 30 years of experience and a sterling reputation across the nation, Ashton Woods operates in seven Orlando-based communities alone—more than 50,000 families now live in homes built by the company. In Sunbridge, the developer is honing in on nine models, offering a mix of detached homes and alley-adjacent townhomes that begin in the $400,000 range.
Single Family Homes
From the mid $500’s
Home Plans: 9
Bedrooms: 3-6 Bedrooms
Baths: 2-5 Baths | 1 Half Bath
Floors: 1-2 Stories
Garage: 2-3
Size: 1,963 – 3,675 Sq Ft
Townhomes
From the $400’s
Home Plans: 3
Bedrooms: 3 Bedrooms
Baths: 2 Baths | 1 Half Bath
Floors: 2
Garage: 2
Size: 1,691 – 1,743 Sq Ft
We’re creating something special here—a Naturehood, a community where Florida’s natural environment thrives in lockstep with Metro Orlando—and we’re proud to do it with some of the region’s best and most respected builders.
For more information about Ashton Woods homes available in the community, click here. For more information regarding our builders, please click here.
Map
The Osceola County School District and Sunbridge are thrilled to announce the grand opening of Voyager K-8, an Environmental STEM school dedicated to cultivating a community of environmentally conscious leaders. Opening this fall, Voyager K-8 is committed to providing a one-of-a-kind educational adventure focused on environmental stewardship and sustainable living, in sync with Central Florida’s first naturehood-focused community, Sunbridge.
Voyager K-8 has been working in collaboration with the Sunbridge community and the Florida Headwaters Foundation to integrate environmental education into its curriculum. This summer, Clint Beaty, Senior VP of Operations for Tavistock, teamed up with teachers and leadership by hosting “tree-mendous” workshops to dive deep into Sunbridge’s guiding principles and cool initiatives from the Sunbridge Stewardship Plan.
“We’re really proud of our partnership with Voyager K-8 and the Osceola County School District,” said Clint Beaty. “By making environmental awareness a core part of learning, we’re helping to raise a generation of students who understand and care about sustainability. These kids will be the ones who look after our community and drive positive changes in the world.”
Voyager K-8 will offer awesome electives like Agriculture and Paxton Patterson Labs, where students can dig into plant and animal systems, explore natural resources, and engage in hands-on environmental labs. These courses are designed to spark curiosity and a love for sustainability.
“The collaboration with Sunbridge and the Florida Headwaters Foundation is a unique opportunity for our school to engage with innovative educational approaches and environmental stewardship with the full support of the community,” said Dustin Sassic, the inaugural principal of Voyager K-8. “We will develop leaders in our community that understand environmental sustainability to ensure our state’s resources are around for years to come.”
The Florida Headwaters Foundation, a not-for-profit cornerstone of the Sunbridge community, will play a key role in this mission. Their naturalist-educator will support a culture of environmental stewardship through fun educational programs and community initiatives.
Voyager K-8’s vision to “build a community of leaders through a sustainable future” comes to life through its innovative, curiosity-driven approach to education.
Get ready for an exciting journey towards a greener future! For updates and more information about what’s new with Voyager K-8, be sure to follow their Facebook page.
In an industry that has traditionally been dominated by men, Molly Maykut shines as a senior homebuilder at David Weekley Homes. From her background in commercial contracting to now spearheading the construction of many homes in our Weslyn Park neighborhood, Molly’s professional journey exemplifies determination, adaptability, and a passion for helping families create their dream homes. Molly recently sat down with us to share insights into her role, her (occasionally-challenging) experiences as a woman in construction, and what makes her work in Sunbridge so fulfilling.
Can you tell us about your role as a senior builder at David Weekley Homes?
Molly Maykut: At David Weekley Homes, we call our supervisors “builders,” while other companies might use terms like “superintendents” or “project managers.” As a senior builder, I oversee the construction of homes from start to finish. I’m heavily involved with homeowners, guiding them through the process with weekly calls and updates. The “senior” part of my title reflects my tenure and leadership within the company. I started as a builder in 2018, became a lead builder a year later, and have been a senior builder for over three years now.
What does a typical workday look like for you?
Molly: Every day is different, which is one of the things I love about my job. While the process of building any home follows a general sequence, each home brings its own unique challenges. My days are filled with problem-solving, coordinating schedules, managing tradespeople and vendors, dealing with inspectors, and ensuring everything stays on track. It’s a lot of on-your-feet, out-of-the-box thinking.
Have you ever had to get hands-on at a construction site?
Molly: Yes, there have been times when I’ve had to step in and do some hands-on work, like tearing out drywall or fixing tiles. While I think I’m better at directing others, sometimes you do have to get in there and get things done yourself, especially when things aren’t going as planned.
How did you come to work in this field?
Molly: My interest in construction started with my dad, who is very handy and has his own handyman business. I started my career in the hospitality industry, before deciding I didn’t want to be a bartender forever. I then tried some different things, including massage therapy and real estate, before landing a job with a commercial contractor. Next, I transitioned to residential construction with David Weekley Homes, where I’ve been since 2018. Along the way, I also earned a business management certificate from Cornell University. That’s in addition to the real estate license and general-contractor license that I currently hold.
How rare is it to encounter other women in your line of work?
Molly: When I started at David Weekley, there were only five female builders in the company, out of more than 360 total builders across the company. Across the entire construction industry, it’s still uncommon to see women in leadership positions. This line of work requires unusually thick skin and the ability to command respect in an environment where a woman in charge is not the norm.
What’s your favorite thing about your job?
Molly: It’s incredibly rewarding to see a home go from a piece of dirt to a completed house. It’s very satisfying to hand the keys to happy homeowners, knowing that I played a part in creating their new dream home.
How much of your workload is focused on Sunbridge?
Molly: In the six years I’ve been with David Weekley Homes, I’ve had the opportunity to work in several communities in metro Orlando, including Lake Nona’s Laureate Park neighborhood. Recently, a significant portion of my work has been focused on homes in the Weslyn Park neighborhood in Sunbridge. The community here is vibrant and growing, and it’s exciting to be part of its development. Each project in Weslyn Park brings unique challenges and rewards, and it’s truly satisfying to contribute to a community that values innovation, sustainability, and quality of life.
From your perspective as a builder, what makes Sunbridge unique compared to other communities?
Molly: Sunbridge is a special place because of its strong emphasis on sustainability and community. The designs and construction practices here are tailored to be energy efficient and environmentally friendly, which aligns with my personal values and those of David Weekley Homes. Additionally, Sunbridge’s master-planned layout and amenities create a cohesive, welcoming atmosphere that you don’t always find in other neighborhoods. It’s not just about building houses. It’s about creating a holistic lifestyle and a sense of belonging for residents.
How do you see Sunbridge evolving in the future, and what role do you hope to play in that evolution?
Molly: I see Sunbridge continuing to grow as a model of sustainable living and innovative home design. With more phases and new amenities in the works, Sunbridge is set to attract diverse residents who value quality and sustainability. My goal is to ensure that every home we build meets the high standards that Sunbridge is known for.
We’re proud to have such a dedicated and skilled professional as Molly shaping homes—and lives—in our naturehood! Click here to find your new home and plant your roots in Sunbridge.
Sunbridge is on the cusp of an exciting new chapter with the upcoming opening of Voyager K-8, a school set to revolutionize public education in Osceola County with its innovative approach and environmental focus. Set to open its doors in August for the 2024-2025 school year, Voyager K-8 is poised to become a hub of learning, leadership and environmental stewardship in our community.
Sunbridge sat down with incoming principal Dustin Sassic to learn more about this promising new addition to Sunbridge.
How did you come to your new role at Voyager K-8?
Principal Sassic: I have been in Osceola County for 19 years, in both a traditional elementary and middle school. When I found out about this school opening 2 years ago, I knew I wanted to lead this school and community as it is the community I love and live in. After researching more about the Sunbridge Community and its initiatives, I knew it would be a great fit.
How will Voyager K-8 align with the Sunbridge community’s focus on harmony with the environment?
Mr. Sassic: Our school mission is to foster a curiosity for lifelong learning while developing an appreciation for the environment and humanity through community collaboration. This will be the foundation of every policy and program that we put in place.
Tell me about the environmental STEM program that’s being planned for the school.
Mr. Sassic: Our school is in the process of developing Environmental Storylines for K-8. Every grade level will have an overarching goal and theme that they will learn about and engage in project-based learning.
For example, in first grade, the Storyline is ‘How does our food get from the Farm to our Table?’ Students will learn about plants, seasons, nutrition, etc. As students move to each grade level, they will be immersed in that Storyline.
When they reach middle school, the Storylines become more practical and field-based, allowing students to go into the community and explore the different careers that revolve around E-STEM [Environment, Science, Technology, Engineering, Math].
What sets Voyager K-8 apart from other public or private schools in the area?
Mr. Sassic: We will be a VPK-8th grade school that teaches and promotes leadership in the community. By collaborating with the community around us, our students will be directly involved with Sunbridge’s environmental initiatives and impacting what is happening.
Being a VPK-8th grade school will also provide in-house opportunities for students to lead each other. We will have Service Learning and Engaged Leadership as middle school electives, allowing students to be directly involved in supporting lower grade levels, engage in student government, and make decisions that impact their school.
What challenges do you anticipate as principal of Voyager K-8?
Mr. Sassic: Building the culture of Voyager will be extremely important in the first year. For example, I ensuring that the logistical aspects of arrival/dismissal, traffic patterns, and other procedures are communicated clearly to the community. It is an exciting time!
Is there anything else you want Sunbridge residents to know about the new school?
Mr. Sassic: Our goal is to embrace the community around us and use all the resources available within it to ensure our students are provided the best experience possible. Voyager K-8 Wolves represent loyalty, friendship, teamwork, protection, instincts, endurance, curiosity, and playfulness. We are excited to bring the Wolf Pack together!
For updates and more information about what’s new with Voyager K-8, be sure to follow their Facebook page. Voyager K-8 is not just a school; it’s a place committed to nurturing young minds and fostering a love for the environment. We can’t wait to see the beautiful impact they’ll make as part of the wider Sunbridge family!
We’re thrilled to be introducing Melissa Robinson, who’s just joined our friends over at the Florida Headwaters Foundation as their Education and Collaboration Cultivator. Melissa brings a wealth of knowledge as a master gardener and a finely tuned passion for environmental education.
Originally from Illinois, Melissa moved with her family to southwest Florida at a young age. In 2019, she graduated from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Studies (sciences concentration). She then shared her talents with the Orlando Science Center and the Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center before landing at the Foundation.
What exactly does an Education and Collaboration Cultivator do, and how will that show up in your work at the Foundation?
Melissa: In my role at the Florida Headwaters Foundation, I’ll be teaching others about local ecology such as flora and fauna, wildlife, and the different ecosystems that exist in Central Florida. The best way to accomplish this is by partnering with other organizations with similar goals, such as universities, landscaping companies, local schools, and other gardening/agriculture enthusiasts. I’m excited to start hosting tours and workshops where we ask and answer questions like, what is a Florida Friendly Landscape? How do I grow my own food? What’s the difference between a pine flatwoods ecosystem, an oak hammock, or a cypress dome, or a marsh? Why are prescribed fires important, and how do they change the landscape over time? What did the landscape look like 5,000 or 10,000 years ago? How do we live comfortably with Florida’s famous wildlife?
My hope is that people learn about nature in a fun, engaging way with their family, neighbors and friends.
What can Sunbridge residents expect from the projects and programs you’re planning?
Melissa: My goal is to deepen residents’ connection with nature. Unfortunately, that’s been lost these past few generations. Now, people are scared to go outside. They think every plant will give them a rash, or that every creature they see is out to get them somehow. If you don’t go out and connect with the environment, you can turn into someone who’s scared of going outside. That can lead to a lot of health issues—especially mental health issues—in the future.
Through programs for kids, field trips for schools, and workshops for all ages, I hope to inspire a love for the environment, an understanding of why we have laws regarding its protection, and a curiosity about the careers that are available in environmental studies. We’re also partnering with educational institutions like the University of Central Florida (UCF) and University of Florida’s IFAS to launch research projects and additional educational opportunities. Stay tuned for more announcements in the coming months!
Tell us more about the children’s programming you envision.
Melissa: I’m planning to set up a parent-and-tot program. It’s my hope that people will be able to come in for kid-friendly educational activities about butterfly life cycles, identifying different trees, how and why birds build nests, and so on.
We’re also looking at building a partnership with the new Voyager K–8 school here in Sunbridge. We’ll be working with teachers on integrating environmental education into their curriculums and their field trips. Hopefully, we’ll also set up a demonstration garden on school property for the kids to attend gardening workshops.
Beyond the borders of Sunbridge, how will the Foundation benefit the wider Orlando community?
Melissa: We’re already working with UCF and UF/IFAS on research projects and hope to eventually expand to other universities as well. By partnering with organizations and schools, we aim to be a resource for anyone who’s interested in learning about the environment. Our long-term vision includes various kinds of consistent community engagement, including a 24-mile wildlife trail that will be open to the public.
What are some of the challenges you foresee and how do you plan to overcome them?
Melissa: As a new foundation, building awareness of our activities and our mission is a key challenge. For the moment, we’re working on setting up educational materials and trails to attract visitors. Another challenge is the broad scope of the work we’re aiming to do, but we’re just taking it one step at a time and focusing on our goals.
What are you most excited about?
Melissa: I’m most excited about helping families and children discover the wonders of nature. I love seeing the immediate impact of my work and inspiring others to appreciate the environment.
What is the long-term vision for the Florida Headwaters Foundation in the next 5, 10, or 20 years?
Melissa: My vision is for the Foundation to become a hub for environmental education and research, not just for Sunbridge but for all of metro Orlando.
I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity and excited to be a resource for this special community. I look forward to helping Sunbridge residents develop a deeper appreciation for our environment and all it has to offer.
For more information, visit Florida Headwaters Foundation.