A Great Place to Live
Northeast Florida is an ideal place to live life to the fullest. Miles of uncrowded and unspoiled land provide a wide variety of distinct residential neighborhoods with housing options to suit any style. From luxury condo high-rises in metropolitan Jacksonville, to grand historic homes, to custom-built new communities in every style imaginable, there is a place for you to feel at home. To long-time residents, it’s easy to see why Expansion Management rated Jacksonville as one of America’s “Best Places to Live and Work” and a “Four-Star Community.”
Whether it’s a quiet rural life, the exciting city life or something in between, you are sure to find it in one of our seven counties. Since 2004, the U.S. Census Bureau has consistently listed St. Johns and Flagler as two of the fastest growing counties in the nation. “Those of us who have lived here for many years have known all along that Flagler County is a great place to live. Now the rest of the country has figured it out,” said David Haas, Flager County administrator. “The population grew by 38.5 percent and the county’s housing stock has increased 29 percent over the last four years.”
Clay County / Orange Park
Located south of the city on the west side of the St. Johns River, Orange Park's rural pastoral qualities and proximity to Jacksonville make it a popular residential area. Orange Park is home to St. Johns River Community College, one of the region's major shopping malls, the Orange Park Kennel Club, country clubs, golf courses and medical facilities. Waterways are plentiful and easily accessible for boating, fishing, kayaking or jet skiing. Clay County has three other incorporated municipalities: Green Cove Springs, Keystone Heights and Penney Farms. Middleburg offers rural areas for hunting and bird watching.
Getting involved in the Community
Jacksonville offers a variety of volunteer opportunities, allowing newcomers to bond with the community in a fun and rewarding way. Many national organizations have offices in Jacksonville. For example, a family involved with Girl Scouts in another area can find the same camaraderie on the First Coast. “They can connect even before they get here,” said Nancy White, director of communications for Girl Scouts of Gateway Council.
Becoming an active volunteer leads to exciting opportunities to network and showcase your talent. “The American Cancer Society’s educational programs, patient services and fundraising events are carried out largely by volunteers,” said Mary Anne Freeman, volunteerism committee chair for the American Cancer Society.
The Salvation Army of Northeast Florida needs volunteers to help feed the needy every day, according to Melanie Love, public relations coordinator. With an abundance of volunteer options, Jacksonville has something for everyone.
If you’re interested in volunteering your time, contact Volunteer Jacksonville at (904) 398-7777 or visit www.volunteerjacksonville.org. Volunteer Jacksonville is a nonprofit organization that matches interests and skills with the needs of more than 400 organizations throughout Northeast Florida.
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