Avalon Park Security and Safety Center use will include law enforcement debriefings, Neighborhood Watch programs and meetings, as well as individual usage by police officers.
East Orlando has a new safety feature located in Avalon Park thanks to the Board of Directors for the Avalon Park Property Owner’s Association. The Security and Safety Center, located in Avalon Park’s Founders Square, is now open and will be used for meetings and briefings by law enforcement personnel as well as private community safety officials. The center has also allocated space for a Victim Service Center outpost.
The center is designed to be a place where residents and law enforcement can come together and coordinate efforts. “Center use will include law enforcement debriefings, Neighborhood Watch programs and meetings, as well as individual usage by police officers,” says Stephanie Hodson, marketing coordinator for Avalon Park Group. Currently staffed by an off duty police officer from 6-7 p.m., residents can call during this hour to ask questions, express concerns or report a problem in their community. The space will include two offices, a full kitchen, living area and conference room downstairs. “I didn’t really know the resource was there, but I’m glad it is,” says Avalon Park resident Michelle Stepinanko. “Anything that can be done to improve safety is a big plus.”
“The second floor is currently occupied by the Victim Service Center,” says Hodson. “Orange County residents who have been a victim of a crime can visit this center for important information and guidance.” The VSC will be staffed by a Victim Advocate Monday through Thursday to offer help and information regarding crisis intervention, safety planning, legal advocacy, therapy and more. “Using the services provided by the Victim Service Center, survivors learn to reduce their anxiety, build and mobilize their personal support networks, and access appropriate community resources with the assistance of highly trained Victim Advocates, like the talented staff at the Security and Safety Center,” says Nicole Quinn, executive director of the Victim Service Center.
“Avalon Park Group is always exploring opportunities to enrich the community, while at the same time, support non-profit organizations in Central Florida,” says Hodson. “This facility is a classic example of a win-win partnership.”
Article by Corey Gehrold
