OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fl. — The Osceola Council on Aging will celebrate the grand opening of Buen Vecino Apartments this Friday, marking a major milestone in the organization’s commitment to providing affordable housing, supportive services, and opportunities for older adults to age with dignity, independence, and security in Osceola County.
The new 60-unit affordable senior living community in Buenaventura Lakes reflects the Council on Aging’s ongoing investment in meeting the growing housing needs of local seniors while creating a welcoming community where residents can remain connected to essential services, wellness programs, and one another. The ribbon-cutting ceremony will bring together community leaders, elected officials, and project partners, including representatives from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Osceola County, the City of Kissimmee, Spectrum, and other community partners.
A highlight of Friday’s celebration will be the presentation of a $15,000 Beyond the Build Digital Education Grant from Spectrum. Joined by Osceola County District 5 Commissioner Ricky Booth, Spectrum will present the grant to the Osceola Council on Aging to establish the Buen Vecino Digital Learning Lab, a secure, on-site computer lab that will provide residents with access to technology and instructor-led digital literacy training.
“Technology is advancing rapidly, and older adults deserve the tools, training and support needed to keep pace,” said Wendy Ford, President and CEO of the Osceola Council on Aging. “This generous grant from Spectrum will help us provide Buen Vecino residents with access to technology and practical digital education so they can confidently connect with healthcare providers, access essential services and remain engaged in their community. We are grateful to Spectrum and Commissioner Ricky Booth for investing in resources that will help our seniors remain informed, connected and independent.”
The Buen Vecino Digital Learning Lab will provide residents with hands-on instruction and access to computers, helping them confidently navigate healthcare portals, telehealth services, Medicare and Social Security resources, online banking, internet safety tools, and other essential digital services. The goal is to empower older adults with the skills and confidence to remain connected and independent in today’s increasingly digital world.
“Reliable Internet access is foundational to a strong economy and a thriving community,” said Osceola County District 5 Commissioner Ricky Booth. “Whether it’s a student completing homework, a resident accessing telehealth, or a small business serving customers, connectivity matters. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to expanding access and closing the digital divide across Osceola County.”
The grant is part of Spectrum’s Beyond the Build initiative, which supports community organizations working to expand digital literacy, increase access to technology, and help close the digital divide in underserved communities.
The presentation also coincides with Spectrum’s recent broadband expansion across Osceola County, bringing high-speed internet service to more than 2,000 homes and small businesses. The expanded network strengthens connectivity throughout the community while supporting initiatives like the Buen Vecino Digital Learning Lab, ensuring residents have both reliable internet access and the knowledge to use it effectively.
For more than 55 years, the Osceola Council on Aging has served as one of the county’s leading nonprofit organizations, helping older adults, veterans, families, and vulnerable residents through affordable housing, Meals on Wheels, transportation, senior centers, health and wellness programs, caregiver support, and numerous other services. Buen Vecino represents the organization’s latest investment in creating opportunities for older adults to live safely, independently, and with the support they need to thrive.
Friday’s ribbon cutting will celebrate far more than the opening of a new apartment community. It represents the Osceola Council on Aging’s continued commitment to serving the community through affordable housing, innovative partnerships, and programs that improve the quality of life for older adults throughout Osceola County.
Looking to be part of the good the Osceola Council on Aging does 365 days a year? Whether you’re interested in volunteering, joining its award-winning Meals on Wheels team, or making a charitable donation, there are many ways to make a lasting difference in the lives of older adults, families, and vulnerable neighbors throughout Osceola County. Visit OsceolaGenerations.org to learn more about volunteering, supporting Meals on Wheels, or making a donation that helps the Osceola Council on Aging continue caring for generations of Osceola County residents.
