Shaping Orange County's Future Final Full Report

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A SHARED COMMUNITY LIFE - CIVIL, COLLABORATIVE, CARING A vibrant community life exists throughout the county. Families, single people, and seniors have many opportunities for recreation and interaction with other community members. Multi -use centers, located in town neighborhoods and villages, serve as a focal point for such activities. These centers are built around schools, with parks and playing fields as well as facilities which provide a comprehensive range of services such as senior day care, child care, a part -time health clinic, a branch library, and meeting space. In addition the centers provide cultural and recreational activities such as ball games, movies, dances, and art classes. The location of day care and schools with other community facilities brings children and adults together, which benefits both. Because these centers are located in settings of compact, mixed commercial and residential development, they are readily accessible places where people of all ages come together to learn, socialize, receive care, and build community. Along with the community centers, many services and activities exist in the county that enrich people's lives. From volunteer opportunities, to cultural arts, to athletics and outdoor recreation, to cultural events that celebrate the rich character of our rural areas and towns, and our cultural and ethnic diversity, there is always something to do. The cultural arts — music, theatre, dance, visual arts — are strongly supported, with many opportunities for arts education and enjoyment available at numerous facilities and venues. A community of artists, artisans and writers thrives through local support. Full advantage is taken of the county's natural, cultural and historic resources to provide recreational activities and opportunities for earning. The community is inclusive of all people and there is openness, innovation and experimentation. Purposeful inclusion of families of all economic levels and fostering of shared activities among various groups has strengthened the sense of community throughout the county. Barriers have been broken down and community built through full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the cultivation of civility, interaction and connection among all racial and ethnic groups, the creation of socio- economically diverse neighborhoods, and the advancement of open and active communication between rural and urban citizens of the county. People work, play, and plan together, and share many common tasks. The community has moved beyond acceptance and tolerance to something deeper and more meaningful, and that is mutual respect, understanding, appreciation, and caring. 106