On the Go in MCO: Family Volunteer Opportunities

On the Go in MCO Family Volunteer

Don’t forget that you can catch these great events and more on the Obie & Ashley Unfiltered Podcast!

It is easy to get caught up in being On the Go in MCO, but taking a step back as a family and giving back to our community is a fantastic way to spend time together.

While there are many ways that families can come together to make our City MORE Beautiful, I wanted to share three ways that my family has chosen to be involved in our community!

On the Go in MCO: Family Volunteer Opportunities

On the Go in MCO Family Volunteering Share-A-Meal

Share-a-Meal at the Ronald McDonald House

We never want to think about anything happening to our children, but the three Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Florida homes in our area are always at the ready to provide a home away from home for families with children receiving treatment at hospitals and medical facilities in Orlando.

One easy and impactful way to help these families is to participate in the Share-a-Meal volunteer opportunity!

Here are the current guidelines for our Share-A-Meal Program:

  • Each meal provider must purchase and provide all necessary food ingredients and disposable to-go containers or heavy-duty paper plates.
  • The current meal count is 25 to 30 individuals.
  • All groups are required to be five individuals or fewer.
  • The shift time for the program is from 4 pm-6 pm.
  • All volunteers are required to wear a mask while inside the house at all times and gloves during meal preparation.
  • After the meal is prepared, meal provider groups are asked to assist the house staff by plating or boxing the meals for our families. Due to House guidelines, buffet/family-style meals cannot be offered.

I once hosted a Share-a-Meal “Taco Tuesday,” and it was awesome! I was able to work with staff members to include fun touches and decorations for the pick-up area. 

What may seem like “just a simple meal” can make all the difference in the world for families with seriously ill children. 

On the Go in MCO Family Volunteer Second Harvest Food Bank

Second Harvest Food Bank

In 2021, Second Harvest Food Bank relied on more than 39,000 volunteers whose hours totaled 111,420 through a variety of volunteer opportunities to help our neighbors in need.

There are a variety of ways that families can help beyond the typical donations, which are always appreciated! 

Volunteer for a Shift

Second Harvest Food Bank has three facilities that are always in need of volunteers to help with picking, daily food sorting, assisting feeding partners with the loading of food, and light warehouse tasks (sweeping, organizing, order pulling, and file sorting).

Volunteers have to be at least ten years old with a chaperone who is 18 years or older in order to help out in the facility, 16 years old without a chaperone, but they do also host a “Family Night” or a “Family Day” for families with children ages 5-9 years old.

Become a Virtual Volunteer

Fight hunger without even changing out of your pajamas! Start a Virtual Food Drive and help provide meals to your neighbors in need.

Brand Ambassadors

Second Harvest Food Bank’s Ambassador Program aims to engage energetic and committed community volunteers in the mission and work of the Food Bank by serving as Hunger Champions in our community. 

Are you interested in learning more about Second Harvest Food Bank volunteer opportunities? Sign up here to receive their Volunteer Voice in your inbox each month.

Give Kids the World Village

Rated Four Stars by Charity Navigator, Give Kids The World Village is an 89-acre, whimsical nonprofit resort in Kissimmee, Florida, that provides week-long, cost-free wish vacations to critically ill children and their families from around the world who want to visit Central Florida.

A stay at the Village is much more than a vacation. During one transformative week, wish families to laugh, play, and create priceless memories together away from hospital visits and medical procedures. It’s a magical week of “YES” where wish kids can experience the simple joys of childhood and where families can recapture some of the precious moments that may have been missed due to illness.

Since 1986, Give Kids The World Village has welcomed more than 177,000 families from all 50 states and 76 countries. 

The Village is made possible by the support of generous donors and community partners and thousands of passionate volunteers – who donate their time and talent to making wishes come true.

Volunteering On-Site

Families with children over the age of 10 can apply to complete volunteer shifts at the Give Kids the World Village campus.

During these shifts, families will help with a variety of tasks throughout the Village.

Purchase with a Purpose

Did you know that you can shop for products you love and support Give Kids The World? Could there be an easier way to help support Give Kids the World Village? Nope.

DIS Con 2022

DIS Con 2022 On the Go in MCO

DIS Con 2022 is a one-of-a-kind expo celebrating all facets of the wonderful world of Disney – from Disney, Marvel, and Pixar animation to film, television, theme parks, music, and memorabilia benefitting Give Kids the World Village.

The event will take place on Friday, September 30, and Saturday, October 1, at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort (1000 W. Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830)

While you may be concerned that volunteering at Give Kids the World Village could be difficult, I can PROMISE that you will remain inspired and devoted to helping this wonderful organization.

Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in MCO and beyond by following @onthegoinmco on InstagramTwitterFacebook, and YouTube

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On the Go in MCO: Mother’s Day

On the Go in MCO Mother's Day 2022

Don’t forget that you can catch these great events and more on the Obie & Ashley Unfiltered Podcast!

Celebrate Mother’s Day 2022 On the Go in MCO with fun outings for the special women in your life!

On the Go in MCO: Mother’s Day 2022

On the Go In MCO Mother's Day
For the Foodie Mom

Celebrate Mother’s Day at Morimoto Asia, as the Disney Springs restaurant hosts its Luau, featuring all the excitement, delicious foods, and festivities of a traditional Hawaiian party.

Guests will find themselves immersed in Asian-Pacific culture, experiencing a Hawaiian-inspired buffet, featuring a poke and sushi bar, a hotline to include Kahuku Food Truck’s Famous Garlic Shrimp, Morimoto Style Peking Duck, and a whole Kalua roasted pig, in addition to an assortment of desserts, such as pineapple upside-down cake and butter mochi.

A variety of specially curated Hawaiian-inspired cocktails will also be available for an upcharge. While guests enjoy their lunch, they will experience a series of captivating performances by a live band, Hula dancers, and a strolling Ukulele player — all prepared to serenade mothers on this special occasion.

Museum of Illusions Orlando ICON Park
Photo: Museum of Illusions Orlando
For the Instagram Mom

If your Mom is like my Mom, one of her most prized possessions are photos of our family…and the ‘fun’ photos are the best!

The Museum of Illusions Orlando at ICON Park immerses you in the fascinating world of illusions with fun photo opportunities and educational exhibits.

This is the perfect way to spend your afternoon!

On the Go In MCO Mother's Day
For the Fun Mom

I’ve talked about Southern Hill Farms before, but they have a bushel of fun events for the entire family this Mother’s Day!

Mother’s Day weekend kicks off on Saturday, May 7th, with live music by the one and only Jeff Whitfield from 11 am to 3 pm, event food trucks, and Kids Zone fun.

Then on Sunday, May 8th, Mom can unwind with Yoga on the Farm from 7 – 8 am, tickets are required and can be found at http://ow.ly/thr750IY3A6

There will also be live music from Are Friends Electric from 10 am to 3 pm, seven food trucks, beer, wine, and Kids Zone fun. 

Right now blueberries, peaches, vegetables, Sunflowers, and Zinnias are available to pick on the one hundred twenty acre farm.

Mothers will also receive one pound of complimentary u-pick blueberries on Saturday and Sunday only (5/7 + 5/8). Just make sure to mention the discount at check-out to receive the free pound, a minimum of two u-pick pounds are required to redeem this offer.

For the Theme Park Mom

The 2022 EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival is blooming with fresh cuisine, beautiful gardens, whimsical topiaries of familiar characters, and flourishing entertainment daily through July 4, 2022.

The Garden Rocks Concert Series takes place at the American Gardens Theatre at 5:30 pm, 6:45 pm, and 8:00 pm. This weekend’s performers are:

  • May 6 & 7 – Blood, Sweat & Tears
  • May 8 – The Commodores – NEW to Garden Rocks!

As a reminder, to enjoy the 2022 Epcot Flower & Garden Festival parkgoers must have both valid theme park admission and a park pass reservation

Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in MCO and beyond by following @onthegoinmco on InstagramTwitterFacebook, and YouTube

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On the Go in MCO: Earth Day

On the Go in MCO Earth Day 2022

Don’t forget that you can catch these great events and more on the Obie & Ashley Unfiltered Podcast!

Earth Day is just around the corner, and if you are looking for fun ways to celebrate our awesome planet On the Go in MCO I’ve got you covered!

On the Go in MCO: Earth Day 2022

On the Go in MCO Earth Day - Central Florida Earth Day
Central Florida Earth Day

April 23, 2022 | 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Head to Lake Eola Park to enjoy presentations, food preparation demonstrations, environmental education, an Earth Kids Zone, an Artist Corner, animal haven, music, Mind Body Spirit, activities, vegan food, and many Earth-friendly sponsors and vendors.

There are so many fun and interesting things happening on Central Florida Earth Day, that you will want to stay all day!

There is no cost to attend this event.

On the Go in MCO Earth Day - Planet Nona
Planet Nona

April 22, 2022 | 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Celebrate Planet Earth in Lake Nona! Lake Nona Town Center and Boxi park will be filled with vendors, live music, food trucks, pop-up bars, activities, and lots of love for our planet!

There is no cost to attend this event and parking is free.

On the Go in MCO Earth Day - Party for the Planet Central Florida Zoo
Party for the Planet

April 23, 2022 | 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Celebrate Earth Day at the Zoo and spring into action to save our planet! Special activities will celebrate our planet’s amazing and diverse wildlife through interactive environmental education activities, fun activities, games, and crafts. Perfect for the entire family, Party for the Planet gives guests the opportunity to connect to nature and conservation in the community and be inspired to become conservation heroes to help protect our beautiful planet.

This event is included in general Zoo admission.

On the Go in MCO Earth Day - St Cloud
St. Cloud Earth Day 2022

April 23, 2022 | 11:00 am

Head to St. Cloud’s Peghorn Nature Park (2101 Peghorn Way, St Cloud, FL 34769) for an Earth Day 2022 Celebration that will include environmental exhibitors, up-cycling crafts, live music, five-a-ways, clean up project, food trucks, a nature trail, and more. 

There is no cost to attend this event.

Earth Month Disney's Animal Kingdom - Header
Animal Kingdom

All week | Park open to close

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park shines the spotlight on our beautiful, bountiful planet with its annual Earth Week Celebration, set for April 18-24, 2022.

During this popular event, guests are steeped in the wonders of the natural world through family-friendly experiences and special offerings. They become part of the park’s conservation story and connect with many of the animal species the Disney Conservation Fund is working hard to protect.

To celebrate the third planet from the sun, the park is pulling out all the stops! Guests will be treated to unique character sightings, fun learning opportunities, specialty merchandise, themed food and beverages, a limited-time Wilderness Explorer badge, and more.

This event is included with theme park admission.

Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in MCO and beyond by following @onthegoinmco on InstagramTwitterFacebook, and YouTube

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On the Go in MCO: Daytona 500 Speed Week

On the Go in MCO Daytona 500 Speed Week

Don’t forget that you can catch these great events and more on the Obie & Ashley Unfiltered Podcast!

If you are heading to see the Daytona 500 in person, there are fun ways to get caught up in the action outside of the races!

On the Go in MCO: Daytona 500 Speed Week

Daytona 500 Speed Week
UNOH Fanzone

If you are already heading in for the races and looking for a way to boost your race day experience, the UNOH Fanzone is THE destination for a one-of-a-kind experience! 

UNOH Fanzone highlights include:

  • Pre-Race Access for Driver Introductions
  • Driver Q&A’s and VIP Appearances 
  • Live Entertainment All Weekend
  • See the Grid up-close
  • Sign the Iconic Start/Finish Line
  • Access to the DAYTONA 500 Pre-Race Show Featuring Luke Combs 
  • And so much more! 

Tickets start at $30 for attendees ages 13 and up while children 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult with a ticket.

DIRTcar Nationals
Daytona 500 Speed Week Dirt Nationals

The 2022 DIRTcar Nationals is the 51st Anniversary of Volusia Speedway Park’s showcase event, an extravaganza of DIRTcar racing featuring the nation’s four premier short-track racing divisions: The World of Outlaws Nos Energy Drink Sprint Car Series, the World of Outlaws Morton Buildings Late Model Series, the Super DIRTcar Series, and the DIRTcar UMP Modifieds, alongside the All-Star Circuit of Champions Sprint Cars and the DIRTcar Late Models.

Each night is a doubleheader with a complete show of heat races, last chance showdowns, and features for two divisions.

Plus, the DIRTcar Nationals midway offers an enhanced experience with an incredible variety of food and merchandise vendors from across the nation.

Live Music Around Town
Daytona 500 Speed Week Live Music

If you are looking for a way to chill before or after the Daytona 500 there are several places to catch a great band, a cold beer, and a great meal.

One of my favorite spots is the Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach with live music on the Sessions and Wave Terraces.

Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in MCO and beyond by following @onthegoinmco on InstagramTwitterFacebook, and YouTube
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On the Go in MCO: Last Minute Valentine’s Day

On the Go in MCO Valentine's Day Last Minute

The Valentine’s Day planning crunch is HERE, and I am sharing some last-minute ways to spend ways with your special someone On the Go in MCO!

On the Go in MCO: Last Minute Valentine’s Day

Teatro Martini On the Go in MCO

Teatro Martini
February 10-14, 7:30 pm at 6400 Carrier Dr, Orlando, FL 32819

Spice up date night with some Vegas-inspired entertainment at Teatro Martini for Valentine’s Day!

From February 10-12 and on February 14, Teatro Martini will be offering a couple’s discount package for its Valentine’s Day-themed show. For only $99, couples will receive two tickets to the dinner show, a gorgeous rose, and free entry into Jewel Speakeasy.

Don’t forget to check out last week’s Unfiltered segment on Valentine’s Day Fun Around Town!!!
On the Go in MCO Last Minute Valentine's Day

The Salty Donut Beer Pairing Date Night
Monday, February 14, 4-10 pm at Ivanhoe Park Brewing Company

The Ivanhoe Park Brewing Co. is hosting a Salty Doughnut Beer Pairing Date Night where you can enjoy four beers that will pair with four donuts. You can choose to enjoy this offering on-site with Cupid Bingo date night or at home with a 16 oz can of each beer to share.

SAK Comedy Lab logo On the Go in MCO

SAK Comedy Lab Valentine’s Show
February 14, 5 pm, 7 pm, and pm at 29 S. Orange Ave. Orlando FL 32801

Valentine’s Day at SAK is always a special way to treat your best gal or guy! The Valentine’s Show is a 90-minute version of their popular improv show that will have you laughing until it hurts. You’ll see top-billed pros perform fan-favorite improvised challenges, with a little love sprinkled on top.

Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in MCO and beyond Valentine’s Day by following @onthegoinmco on InstagramTwitterFacebook, and YouTube

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On the Go in MCO: Valentine’s Day Fun Around Town

On the Go in MCO Valentine's Day Around Town

Don’t forget that you can catch these great events and more on the Obie & Ashley Unfiltered Podcast!

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and in TRUE City Beautiful fashion there are a ton of ways to celebrate your significant other On the Go in MCO!

On the Go in MCO: Valentine’s Day Fun Around Town

Love Makes The Wheel Go Round

On the Go in MCO The Wheel ICON Park Date night

ICON Park is celebrating love by bringing back the popular “I’m Sweet On You” package for the entire month of February.

For a single price, guests can enjoy a private ride on The Wheel along with many other romantic perks.

For $115 plus tax, couples who book the “I’m Sweet On You” package will receive:

  • A private capsule on The Wheel for two with two rotations (that’s 40 minutes taking in the romantic views of the City Beautiful)
  • One bottle of sparkling wine with a keepsake coozie (Both guests must be at least 21 years old)
  • Two mini cupcakes from Let’s Jess Bake at The Wheelhouse Market Food Hall
  • VIP photo package including unlimited digital downloads to commemorate your special evening
The Wheel at ICON Park: 8375 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819

Sunset at Southern Hill Farms

Sunset at Southern Hill Farms Valentine's Day On the Go in MCO

Southern Hill Farms is hosting extended hours on Friday, February 11, where you can get out of the city to enjoy strawberry and sunflower picking, Kids Zone activities, live music, beer and wine, food trucks, and more without an admission or parking fee.

Folding chairs and blankets are welcome and encouraged, but please remember that pets, outside meals, outside alcohol, and coolers are prohibited at the farm.

Highlights of the evening include:
• Sunflower and strawberry picking, available until sunset (Entry into the fields will close at 6:00 pm)
• Live music from 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm
• Southern Hill Eatery, Pasta and Grill, and Phil Real’s Smokin’ BBQ food trucks
• Strawberry donuts, blueberry cobbler, blueberry muffins, and more seasonal treats
• Complimentary yard games
• Covered playground

Southern Hill Farms: 16651 Schofield Road, Clermont, FL 34714

Winter Garden Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides

Winter Garden Carriage Rides Valentine's Day On the Go in MCO

On Valentine’s Day, SOUL Haven Ranch is offering 20 minute private, horse-drawn carriage evening rides along charming Plant Street.

You’ll find your carriage and noble steeds at the Downtown Pavilion, 104 S. Lakeview Ave, but you will want to call (407) 509-1981 to book your tour in advance.

The tour costs $95.00, with the carriage accommodating up to 4 adults.

Love, Lake Nona

Love, Lake Nona Valentine's Day On the Go in MCO

One of my FAVORITE spots in Orlando is Boxi Park in Lake Nona, and on Saturday, February 12 they are hosting quite the shindig!

In addition to their amazing food and beverages, the night will also feature a live DJ, Champagne bar, Poppy’s’ Flower Truck (which if you haven’t checked out you are missing out), event-exclusive Sweet Treats, a caricature artist, and a surprise photo op!

Boxi Park: 6877 Tavistock Lakes Blvd, Orlando, FL 32827
Don’t forget you can keep up with us as we are On the Go in MCO and beyond Valentine’s Day by following @onthegoinmco on InstagramTwitterFacebook, and YouTube
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On the Go in MCO: May 7-9, 2021

Obie and Ashley Spring Break 2021 Tips On the Go in MCO

Don’t forget that you can catch these great events and more on the Obie & Ashley Unfiltered Podcast!

If you are looking for some fun ways to spend your weekend  celebrating Moms, there’s plenty to enjoy as you’re On the Go in MCO!

On the Go in MCO: May 7-9, 2021

Paws in the Park

  • May 8th at 10:00 am
  • Lake Eola Park
Paws in the Park 2021 On the Go in MCO

The Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando, the region’s oldest and largest animal welfare agency, is excited to announce the return of their popular pet festival – Paws in the Park – to Lake Eola Park in Downtown Orlando on Saturday, May 8, 2021, starting at 10 am. 

Pet parents and pet lovers are all invited to join together with their fur children and fur friends for the fun-filled, free event, which features a full day of both “human” and “canine” activities, food, and fun, like lure courses for big and small dogs, photo stations, doggy fun zone, costume contest, vendor marketplace, food trucks, Pet Alliance swag, plus plenty of pet adoption opportunities. 

Cinco de Mayo at SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food Festival

  • All Weekend
  • SeaWorld Orlando 
On the Go In the Parks - SeaWorld Seven Seas Food Festival Cinco de Mayo On the Go in MCO

You can keep celebrating Cinco de Mayo at SeaWorld Orlando’s Seven Seas Food festival May 7 -9!!!

During this special celebration, included with theme park admission, guests can experience:

  • FIESTA IN THE STREET – The Wild Arctic Plaza comes to life as entertainers, stilt walkers, and party starters get this full-blown fiesta going.
  • 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
  • DJ DANCE PARTY – Get your feet moving at this fun-filled party (with physical distancing) as we spin new and old beats throughout the day.
  • 12:00 p.m. – 6 p.m.
  • LIVE MUSIC – Immerse yourself in the traditional music of Mexico as classic bands bring their beautiful and bold sounds to Orlando.
  • 12:00 p.m. – 6 p.m.
  • MEXICAN FLAVORS – Savor new and classic tastes as part of our Seven Seas Food Festival including our take on a classic Elote dish, drunken shrimp tostadas, beef barbacoa tacos, and delicious beer and cocktails.
  • 11:30 a.m. to park close.
Waves of Honor SeaWorld Orlando

Veterans won’t want to miss the chance to register for the Waves of Honor Offer for SeaWorld Parks!

Through June 27, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment is offering free admission for U.S. military veterans and their families to its SeaWorld Orlando, SeaWorld San Antonio, and SeaWorld San Diego parks with their Waves of Honor program. 

U.S. military veterans and retirees must register their complimentary single-day ticket(s) for themselves and up to three dependents online at www.WavesofHonor.com before May 16. 

Mother’s Day at Leu Gardens

  • May 9th from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
  • Leu Gardens, 1920 North Forest Avenue, Orlando, FL 
On the Go in MCO Leu Gardens Mother's Day

Enjoy this special day with your mom in the beautiful 50-acre gardens.  

Stroll the winding pathways and discover all the amazing gardens including Florida’s largest rose garden which is in full bloom during the month of May.  Moms receive free admission on this very special day.

Peak Season Pops will be selling delicious treats!

You can find even more events as you are On the Go in MCO as well as theme park news and tips by following @onthegoinmco on InstagramTwitterFacebook, and YouTube!
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