In an effort to grow the Downtown South local community, Orlando officially announced its new title, SoDo District. The area’s self-named nonprofit brought about the official naming of SoDo District for the area from Downtown Orlando to Lake Holden.
With a focus on developing the local economy and energizing the community, SoDo District plans to market for local businesses, embrace Orlando’s history and design a productive and lively environment. SoDo District’s local public events attract business into the area and the nonprofit communicates with unique shops and restaurants.
“[Naming the area SoDo District] is a way for everyone to talk about the area in the same way, so as we support our local businesses and think about the future redevelopment in this area, we’re all thinking about the same thing,” Sarah Elbadri, SoDo District’s executive director, said.
Junior Grace Gardner, employee of Ryan’s Hallmark in the Market at Southside, expresses positive anticipation for SoDo District’s naming and the nonprofit’s impact on local businesses. She believes surges in local institutions’ foot traffic and a new unity for local businesses will occur from the new name.
“I think change is exciting. When people are united, it influences them to be kinder, and having a common goal to improve the area will make the whole region improve,” Gardner said.
SoDo District holds a membership in the Orlando Main Streets and the Mainstreet America Program. The distinguished programs acknowledge successful districts and guide the development of their programs.
Aiming to invigorate the community and increase foot traffic for businesses, especially after the tragedy at Pulse Nightclub, SoDo teamed up with the City of Orlando, to promote bike parking programs to local businesses, to redesign a more pedestrian-friendly Orange Avenue and to improve lighting on Michigan Street. Hosting community events and infusing public art such as murals, community gardens and more annual cleaning events attracts consumers and brings energy into the community.
Volunteers drive SoDo District’s program. The volunteer-based organization, design, promotions and economic vitality committees plan and execute all of the nonprofit’s efforts. Sarah Elbadri, SoDo District’s only staff member, facilitates the committees’ plans and communicates with the public by answering emails and phone calls. Committees plan renovations and local events and welcomes volunteers of all ages and backgrounds.
“Volunteering is a really great way [for students to get involved]. No matter what you want to do as a professional or in your future, involvement in your community is important,” Elbadri said.
Future committee projects gear toward embracing Orlando’s history. SoDo District aims for spreading information on the orange industry that built Orlando and inspired Orange Avenue. Long-term project ideas, such as renovating SoDo District’s historic Amtrak station and adding an event venue in its second floor, will allow SoDo District citizens to enjoy the little-known history of their home.
Submit a volunteer application online and follow SoDo District on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates and to get involved.