News Summary
Kenneth Hughes has been appointed as the new Executive Director of Parramore Main Street, set to begin on December 4. Known for his community engagement and business acumen, Hughes aims to revitalize the historic Parramore District, building on previous developments and fostering local partnerships. His leadership is anticipated to provide a fresh perspective and drive economic growth in the area, with a focus on preserving its rich heritage. The community looks forward to seeing the positive changes he will implement as he takes on this vital role.
Kenneth Hughes Takes the Helm at Parramore Main Street
Orlando is buzzing with excitement as Kenneth Hughes is set to step into the role of Executive Director of the Parramore Main Street program. The announcement was made with much enthusiasm, as Hughes’s start date is right around the corner—mark the calendar for December 4! Residents and business owners alike are expressing hope that his leadership will bring a fresh perspective to the historic Parramore District.
A Community Man at Heart
Hughes, a second-generation business owner and real estate investor, is not new to the idea of community engagement. Born in Shreveport, Louisiana, he inherited a legacy of hard work and dedication from his family. Both grandfathers devoted their entire careers to single companies, instilling in him a sense of loyalty and commitment to community. His mother has held a prominent position in a Fortune 500 company for over three decades, clearly setting an example of leadership and tenacity for Hughes.
Relocating to Florida in 2007 after witnessing his father’s successful venture in founding a minority-owned staffing agency, Hughes has since emerged as a notable figure in Central Florida’s business landscape. In 2015, he launched his own staffing agency, initially called KBI Staffing Solutions LLC, which has since been rebranded as Keeping Projects in Motion. The agency is dedicated to bridging the gap between the local community and job opportunities across various industries, showcasing Hughes’s commitment to fostering economic vitality.
Community Leadership Experience
Hughes is no stranger to local leadership roles. He previously served as the president of the Holden Heights Neighborhood Association, where he was pivotal in organizing events aimed at strengthening ties within the community. His enthusiasm for community building didn’t stop there; he is currently the Vice Chair of the Orange County Housing Finance Authority Board, where he advocates for affordable housing initiatives that aim to uplift families and individuals in the area.
Moreover, Hughes has been a significant player in the Mission Parramore District, a nonprofit devoted to intertwining Parramore’s rich history with its promising future. This initiative works to engage residents, business owners, and property owners in preserving local heritage while driving forward economic development. His multifaceted involvement emphasizes Hughes’s deep-rooted passion for making Parramore a better place for all.
A Vision for the Future
As Hughes steps in to replace Natasha Gaye, the outgoing executive director who successfully led the district since its separation from downtown Orlando’s City District, the community is eager to see how he will navigate this pivotal period. Under Gaye’s leadership, Parramore Main Street has undergone significant development, part of the broader national Main Street America initiative that promotes economic growth.
The Parramore Main Street program is focused on revitalizing the area while celebrating its historical importance. With Hughes at the helm, there is a shared excitement among community members and local stakeholders that his experience, dedication, and innovative mindset will pave the way for a brighter future for Parramore.
In summary, Kenneth Hughes’s appointment as Executive Director is drawing eager anticipation. His commitment to the community, coupled with his background in business and real estate, makes him a fitting leader for the revitalization and development of Parramore District. As December 4 approaches, all eyes will be on Orlando to witness the changes Hughes will undoubtedly bring as he embarks on this new journey for the community.
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HERE Resources
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Orlando Appoints Kenneth Hughes as New Executive Director of Parramore Main Street
Additional Resources
- West Orlando News
- WFTV
- Business Wire
- Your Community Paper
- Click Orlando
- Wikipedia: Parramore District
- Google Search: Parramore District Orlando
- Google Scholar: Parramore District history
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Orlando
- Google News: Parramore District news
