Learn about the winners for the 2022 Neighborhood Awards
A surprise presentation at the Bay Port Colony Property Owners Association’s annual meeting on February 27 caused quite a stir as residents learned that their neighborhood had been named the 2022 Neighborhood of the Year through the Neighborhood Awards program. The awards are held annually to recognize neighborhood organizations that have fostered healthy, safe, and engaged neighborhoods through exceptional programs, projects, and events.
With a dedicated volunteer base and a Neighborhood Mini-Grant secured, Bay Port Colony brought its residents together to create a waterside playground in this Town ’N Country neighborhood for area youngsters. This outpouring of volunteer support earned Bay Port Colony the Engaged Through Volunteerism award in addition to the Neighborhood of the Year designation for the overall most impactful project.
The Oaks at Riverview Homeowners Association in the Old Seminole Heights neighborhood received the Safe Neighborhood award for its work with the Neighborhood Watch program. When residents noted crime going up in the community, they began working with the Hillsborough County Neighborhood Watch Association to organize the community and increase the program’s impact. Through a variety of community events, Oaks at Riverview residents have become better connected with the officers that patrol the neighborhood, creating a personal connection so that there is an open line of communication between them. Since the implementation of the program, the community has seen a significant reduction in crime.
The Healthy Environment award was given to the Aberdeen Creek Homeowners Association in Riverview for its work cleaning up the neighborhood following Hurricane Ian, when a group of 20 volunteers gathered to clear storm debris. This volunteer team removed storm debris blocking the sidewalk and replaced panels on a fence at the community entrance. As a ‘thank you’ for the volunteers’ hard work, the community hosted a "Friends Giving" in November, further solidifying the neighbors’ newfound friendships.
Parkside Village Homeowners Association in Fishhawk won the final 2022 award, Engaged Through Communication, for its Holiday Lights program. Once a year for the past 17 years, Parkside Village residents gather to celebrate the holiday season by having cookies and hot cocoa at a driveway event. Residents stroll the neighborhood and vote for the best holiday lights. The event is communicated through flyers and the community's Facebook page. This initiative connects the community members and creates a great sense of camaraderie amongst neighbors.
Learn more about the Neighborhood Awards program.