Welcome to our series on Health Equity – the idea that every person should have a full and fair chance to be as healthy as possible. If you’re new to this series, we recommend clicking here to view the introduction.

When we think of health equity, it’s about people receiving opportunities to be as healthy as possible. But “health” isn’t just about physical health. At Lift Orlando, we want people to have full and fair chances to be healthy in mind, body, and spirit, too.

Health equity in West Lakes also includes the social fabric of every resident. It’s all about the community’s social connections. These connections are important and key to good health. There is a powerful interplay between social and community ties and health equity. For the West Lakes communities, the Heart is the beating center for the community to thrive.

The Human Connection: Building Blocks of Health

Community connection affects how healthy people can be. Residents’ lives are woven with relationships they cultivate daily with friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors. These social connections influence emotional well-being and physical health. Research shows that feeling lonely or isolated causes detrimental effects on health. Loneliness can increase the risk of conditions like heart disease and depression. Strong social ties lower stress levels, improve mental health, and increase life expectancy.

To achieve health equity, we must ensure everyone experiences warm and supportive relationships within their community. In West Lakes, it means noticing where residents spend time. We can empower communities by fostering environments where community members connect and engage.

Cultivating Connections: The Heart's Role

We understand social and community connections' impact on health equity. One of the Heart's tenant partners, ELEVATE Orlando, takes this seriously. ELEVATE Orlando works with youth, equipping them with the skills and confidence to thrive and contribute to their community. They aim to empower youth by building long-term, lasting relationships, preparing them for adulthood.

The Heart is more than just a physical space—it's a hub where connections flourish. The building's design encourages people from different walks of life to intersect and engage in unplanned interactions. For example, Legacy Café will be one of those places where friends can spend time with one another! At Lift Orlando, we treasure these daily connections. These connection points offer insight into residents' well-being.

The Neighborhood Living Room

As the heartbeat of West Lakes, the Heart embodies how social connection can drive health equity. The Heart is more than an access point for services or a gathering place. The natural extension of warm relationships makes our place-based work possible for the long haul. This one-stop neighborhood living room is where neighbors can confidently bring their entire selves. Residents know they will be cared for, celebrated, and offered a pathway to leverage their unique talents. We invite you to enjoy this communal living room at the Heart’s Open House! Join us in celebrating our community's legacy, connections, and boundless potential.