SARA ROBERTS
Executive Director, 2012 - 2016
Polk Vision, Inc.
Polk Vision is much more than a vision document or an alignment process, it is people
power. The topics and issues we tackle not only make us uncomfortable, they are the issues
that can uplift or bog down a society. This is hard work. However, with your commitment
and that of so many more, Polk Vision is the catalyst for generational change.
COLLEEN BURTON
Founding Executive Director
State Representative, District 40
Over thirteen years ago, volunteer community leaders from across Polk County met at
United Way of Central Florida to discuss the results of a comprehensive countywide quality
of life study. The results were troubling but the volunteers’ resolve was strong. They believed
in order for Polk County’s quality of life to improve a coordinated countywide initiative was
necessary.
Today, Polk Vision continues to be the driving force behind important conversations
across Polk. Thirteen years since its inception and twelve years since the first community
roundtable, Polk Vision tackles countywide issues by systematically identifying issues
affecting the lives of all Polk County residents and forging solutions-oriented partnerships.
The key to Polk Vision’s success has always been the commitment of hundreds of volunteers
who share a common “vision” of a brighter tomorrow for our county. Under consistently
superb volunteer leadership, Polk Vision has deftly evolved, adapted to shifting community
priorities, and embraced organizational change to ensure continued progress.
As the Executive Director of Polk Vision during its first 8 ½ years, I was delighted to facilitate
the Smart Communities Summit on June 10th and witness firsthand its continued impact.
Congratulations, Polk Vision, on another successful year!
PRESSING FORWARD
The comprehensive and multi-faceted strategic plans created by Polk Vision
LEAD Teams are designed to harness all of Polk County’s resources to achieve
the overarching priority of improved community prosperity.
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