On July 14, Leon County\u00a0Government\u00a0and the Council of Neighborhood Associations (CONA) recognized outstanding neighborhoods and neighbors through the 45th\u00a0Annual Neighborhood Recognition Program.\u00a0This year\u2019s winners were recognized for going above and beyond in the last year to make our community a better place to live, work, and play.<\/p>\n
\u201cLeon County is proud to recognize the dedicated residents and neighborhoods that strengthen our community through service, leadership, and collaboration,\u201d said Leon County Commission Chairman Christian Caban. \u201cFrom beautification projects to volunteerism and civic engagement, these efforts create lasting benefits for residents throughout our county.\u201d<\/p>\n
The 2026\u00a0winners include:<\/p>\n
Small Neighborhood of the Year\u00a0(200 homes or fewer)\u00a0\u2013\u00a0Avondale Neighborhood Association. Avondale demonstrated a strong commitment to resident engagement by using community feedback to guide meaningful neighborhood improvements while continuing to foster a connected, vibrant community through popular annual events and traditions.<\/p>\n
Large Neighborhood of the Year\u00a0(more than 200 homes)\u00a0\u2013\u00a0Griffin Heights Neighborhood Association. Griffin Heights exemplified community leadership by fostering resident engagement and implementing initiatives that enhanced neighborhood pride, improved quality of life, and supported sustainable revitalization and economic opportunity.<\/p>\n
Unincorporated Neighborhood of the Year\u00a0(outside the city limits)\u00a0\u2013 Highgrove Homeowners Association. Highgrove demonstrated exceptional community stewardship by investing in infrastructure improvements, advancing sustainable practices, and fostering a welcoming, connected community through resident engagement, longstanding traditions, and service initiatives.<\/p>\n
Neighbor of the Year- Michelle Olson. Michelle exemplifies the true spirit of community through selfless service, compassionate leadership, and unwavering commitment to her neighbors. Since joining the neighborhood one year ago, she has made a lasting impact by volunteering her time, strengthening neighborhood initiatives, and enhancing the quality of life in her community. Whether improving shared spaces, helping neighbors in need, or fostering connections, Michelle consistently goes above and beyond to make her neighborhood a better place to live.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor 45 years, Leon County has recognized the extraordinary contributions of our neighborhoods, whose dedication continues to enrich communities and create lasting impact across our county,\u201d said County Administrator Vincent S. Long. \u201cThrough this program, we celebrate their accomplishments and the partnerships that inspire continued progress for generations to come.\u201d<\/p>\n
The\u00a0Neighborhood of the Year Award winners received a sign to display at their neighborhood entrances.\u00a0The\u00a0Neighbor of the Year Award winner received a personalized plaque highlighting their leadership and service to the community.<\/p>\n
\u201cLeon County neighborhoods are strongest when residents come together with a shared commitment to improving the places they call home,\u201d said Leroy Peck of CONA. \u201cCONA is proud to partner with Leon County in celebrating the neighborhood organizations whose dedication strengthens neighborhoods and builds a stronger community.\u201d<\/p>\n