Eatonville Initiative
A long-term commitment rooted in community, stewardship, and opportunity.

This page will serve as the official source for information and updates.

The Eatonville Initiative is specifically focused on the historic Hungerford property and an additional 17 acres directly associated with that site. Our work is intentionally concentrated on this defined area. We will thoughtfully support preservation, shared economic opportunity, and community in a way that honors Eatonville’s legacy as a historic town. By focusing on the historic Hungerford site, the initiative aims to support Eatonville as a whole—while respecting its boundaries, governance, and community identity.

Our Role as Stewards
Dr. Phillips Charities has a long history of thoughtful land stewardship rooted in the legacy of Dr. Philip Phillips. For generations, the organization has approached land ownership with a long-term perspective—one that prioritizes community benefit, sustainability, and responsible planning.

The Hungerford property represents another opportunity to carry that legacy forward. Our role at this stage is to carefully evaluate the property, listen to community voices, and ensure that any future vision aligns with the priorities of the Town.

This process will be deliberate, transparent, and guided by what is best for the community over the long term.

Current Status
Dr. Phillips Charities is committed to stewarding the Hungerford Property with care, transparency, and deep respect for Eatonville’s history. With the contract now executed, the next 14–18 months will be dedicated to exploration and collaborative planning to ensure the land’s future is responsibly aligned with community goals. This initial phase will focus on listening, research, and feasibility, supported by the formation of a community advisory committee that brings together residents and subject-matter experts to inform the planning process. Dr. Phillips Charities is grateful for the partnership, support, and trust of Orange County Public Schools, Mayor Gardner, and the Town of Eatonville as this work moves forward, laying the foundation for a long-term vision that honors the site’s legacy and supports its future.

Mission: To build upon Eatonville’s proud heritage by honoring and safeguarding its legacy, supporting a thriving, inclusive community that celebrates Black history, empowers residents, and ensures lasting opportunity, connection, and economic vitality for future generations.

Vision: A thriving, resident-centered community that celebrates Eatonville’s history while welcoming visitors—where families live, work, and play; local businesses prosper; and cultural tourism and public-private partnerships support lasting, community-led growth.

Guiding Principles

  • Trust, Integrity & Accountability

    Doing what we say, being transparent, and holding ourselves responsible to the community.

  • Protecting History & Legacy

    Honoring Hungerford’s past while thoughtfully planning for its future.

  • Listening, Engagement & Collaboration

    Centering community voices and working together through open, ongoing dialogue.

  • Economic Opportunity & Workforce Growth

    Creating jobs, training pathways, and access to long-term economic stability.

  • Education & Homeownership Pathways

    Supporting education and increasing opportunities for residents to succeed.

Advisory Committee

  • Bridge between community and Dr. Phillips Charities
  • Community Representatives & Subject Matter Experts
  • Dr. Bahíyyah Maroon | Eatonville Initiative Advisory Committee Chair
  • Mrs. Carol Buford | Property & Asset Manager, Macedonia CDC of Eatonville, Eatonville Faith Community
  • Dr. Candace Finley | Founder & Executive Director, Esteamed Learning, Eatonville Business Owner, Resident, and Legacy Descendant
  • Michelle Fort | Buyer, Orange County Government, Eatonville Legacy Descendant
  • Joyce Irby | Eatonville Legacy Descendant
  • Mr. Theo McWhite | Eatonville Legacy Descendant
  • Bruce Mount Jr., Esq. | Attorney, Nunez Law Firm, Eatonville Business Owner & Legacy Descendant
  • Simmon Reed | SVP, Corporate Responsibility and Labor Management, Travel + Leisure Co.
  • Bea Hatler | Ex Officio, Hungerford Family Descendant
  • Stephanie Vanos | Ex Officio, OCPS School Board Member District 6

Community Concept Plan Framework

  • Site Planning: Led by Baker Barrios, informed by community workshops
  • Key Features: Green space & pavilion, Early Learning Center, Town Center & History Museum, Healthcare Hub, Affordable Housing (Single & Multi-Family)

Looking Ahead
This page will be updated as new information becomes available.

Contact Information: eatonvilleinfo@drphillips.org