CASSELBERRY, Fla. – Volunteers throughout Casselberry dedicated their Saturday morning to tidying up overgrown yards, removing clutter, and assisting homeowners in meeting property standards during the Neighbor to Neighbor event, coordinated by the local nonprofit, Community Flourishing Initiatives.

The city collaborated with eight local churches: Metro Life Church, Community Church, Church Together, Storehouse, Willow Creek Orlando, Grace Church, Casselberry Baptist, and Smith Prep private school, in addition to local businesses and city staff.

For residents like Stephanie Herald, the effort came as a surprise.

“The city of Casselberry visited and offered to have people help at my house for free. I was skeptical, wondering what the catch was,” Herald said.

Herald, who has struggled to maintain her large yard, said the volunteers’ help made all the difference.

Casselberry’s community development director, Christopher Schmidt, said the initiative fits the city’s approach.

“We emphasize working with the community, which is why we focus on code compliance rather than enforcement. Everyone benefits when neighbors support each other,” Schmidt explained.

Executive director of Community Flourishing Initiatives, Shane Kohout, said the work goes beyond just mowing lawns.

“Messy and overgrown yards often indicate personal challenges within the home. Some residents are elderly, disabled, ill, grieving, dealing with mental health issues, or simply overwhelmed,” Kohout noted.

Residents of Colony Drive had been striving for years to tackle a hoarding problem that had drawn rats. Last Saturday, they witnessed substantial improvement.

“Something is finally happening. It’s a thing of beauty. Yes. When I saw them pull in yesterday, I rejoiced over that,” said Cindy Buchanan, who lives nearby.

The event drew 130 volunteers, who not only pitched in to clean up but also shared a meal. Lowe’s in Casselberry donated picnic tables for the homeowners, while Chick-fil-A provided free lunch. Volunteers and homeowners gathered to enjoy the meal together on their new tables after the work was done.

Kohout said the effort is gaining momentum, with neighboring cities looking to join in.

“We don’t want people to feel alone or isolated. We want everyone to know they’re seen, and they’re loved, and they’re invited in,” he said.

More information about the nonprofit and its mission, click here.