DOWNTOWN BUSINESS NEWS
Orlando Credit Union Recognized by OBJ as Fastest-Growing Credit Union
Congratulations to Orlando Credit Union for being recognized as Orlando's fastest-growing credit Union by the Orlando Business Journal! Orlando Credit Union credits their achievement of providing over 26,000 members with exceptional service for more than 88 years to the empowerment of their members and being founded on the universal credit union creed of “not for profit, not for charity, but for service." Learn more and see the complete ranking by OBJ HERE.

CFC Arts Announces New Executive Director
Central Florida Community Arts (CFC Arts) has officially announced Justin Muchoney as their new Executive Director. Serving as interim director since 2024, Muchoney is a founding member of the organization and has served as music director and conductor for years, while simultaneously leading entertainment and production teams at Walt Disney World. He is credited with growing CFCArts’ now 400-plus member orchestra and other programs, including the establishment of two of the nation’s largest adult volunteer music ensembles, and developing the nonprofit’s nationally recognized music programs for children, older adults and neurodivergent learners. Read more and see Muchoney's bio here.

Meet Pathlight Home's New Senior Director of Fundraising and Engagement
Pathlight Home is proud to welcome Gigi Ramirez to their team as the new Senior Director of Fundraising and Engagement! For over 30 years, Pathlight Home has helped more than 7,000 people experiencing homelessness through their "housing first" philosophy. Ramirez's role will amplify the incredible impact of this work through dynamic partnerships, rallying funds and in-kind donations, energizing volunteers, hosting events, and involving as many people as possible in their mission. Learn more about Pathlight Home and Gigi Ramirez HERE!

FAIRWINDS Vice President Stresses Importance of Financial Literacy Efforts
FAIRWINDS Vice President of Community Relations and Government Affairs and Executive Director of FAIRWINDS Foundation, Elisha González, was featured as a guest columnist in the Orlando Sentinel for National Financial Literacy Month to share how investing in financial literacy efforts benefits communities. With the average debt-to income ratio in Central Florida climbing to 36%, many residents are spending over a third of their income just to pay down debt. “When we invest in financial education — whether through schools, nonprofits, employers, or volunteers — we invest in Central Florida’s future,” said González. Read the full story on Orlando Sentinel’s website.

CRA Reveals New Downtown Mural
The Community Redevelopment Agency has just revealed a new mural on the northeast side of the Amelia Street Parking Garage, near Amelia Street and Hughey Avenue by local muralist Kristi Burke. The new 19×37-foot piece, “Possibilities,” features a hand holding a paper airplane, symbolizing creativity and potential, with other airplanes already soaring in the distant blue sky. Click here to read the full article by the Bungalower.