Executive director part of civic leadership track – designed for those not running for office

Sanford, Fla. (September 26, 2025) – One of the most significant issues facing communities across the United States is how to help men, women and children experiencing homelessness.

Last week, Rescue Outreach Mission’s Chris Ham started an intensive process through the Orlando Economic Partnership to help grow the organization as a leader in providing policy solutions.

“This is a great opportunity to deepen my impact in the Seminole County community by bringing new insights and partnerships back to the work we do at Rescue Outreach Mission,” Ham said.

The program is an extension to the organization’s long-running Political Leadership Institute, which was designed to identify and support pro-business individuals thinking about running for office on both sides of the aisle. Central Florida’s elected leadership is filled with graduates, including State Representative David Smith, Supervisor of Elections Amy Pennock, Seminole County Commissioner Andria Herr, Oviedo Mayor Megan Sladek, Altamonte Springs Commissioner Bob O’Malley, and Circuit Judge Melanie Chase. 

However, Orlando Economic Partnership encountered a significant number of individuals who wanted to be a part of policy discussions, but did not want to run for office. 

“The Civic Leadership Track expands the scope of our Public Leadership Institute to prepare leaders who may not run for office but still have the power to shape the future of our region,” said Tim Giuliani, OEP’s President and CEO in a release. “This inaugural class represents a bold step toward cultivating business and civic leaders who are ready to engage in the policymaking process in meaningful ways.” 

More than 100 people applied to be part of this first class, of which just 29 people were chosen from throughout Central Florida, “based on their applications, interviews, and demonstrated commitment to community leadership.”

To learn more about the class, please see the OEP press release: https://news.orlando.org/blog/orlando-economic-partnership-welcomes-plis-inaugural-civic-leadership-track/

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About Rescue Outreach Mission:  In 1986, Mother Blanche Bell Weaver, Pastor of the Rescue Church of God, saw desperate people in her community living without basic essentials. With the support of her church and members, she was determined to help those in need. She founded the Rescue Outreach Mission to provide safety, support and a healing environment for her community. To learn more about Rescue Outreach Mission, please visit our website.ace to go to get your life back together. As long as you work with the staff, they are there to help you,” Louis says. “The staff there are truly top of the line.”