The South Lake Chamber of Commerce welcomed an influential voice in the sports tourism industry as the keynote speaker during its recent breakfast meeting. Jason Siegel, CEO of the Greater Orlando Sports Commission (GO Sports), shared valuable insights into the growing economic and community impact of sports-related events across Central Florida.
With more than 30 years of experience in sports tourism, professional sports, and collegiate athletics, Siegel is currently in his tenth year leading GO Sports. Under his leadership, the organization has played a pivotal role in positioning the region as a premier destination for major sporting events.
Siegel emphasized the importance of sports tourism as a powerful driver of economic development. His team has successfully secured millions of dollars in grant funding while attracting high-profile events such as NCAA championships, Major League Soccer matches, international soccer competitions, WrestleMania, and the Special Olympics USA Games.
A major milestone came when Orlando was awarded a record 17 NCAA National Championship events scheduled between 2022 and 2026. Looking ahead, GO Sports is actively managing future bids valued at more than $3.5 billion through 2034.
For more information, visit GO Sports.
FIND, FEED, RESTORE
Spotlight on Community Impact – The breakfast not only provided opportunities for networking and updates but also highlighted meaningful community efforts through its main event sponsor, Find, Feed & Restore.
Dedicated to ending homelessness among families with children and individuals, the organization focuses on providing stable housing, mental health counseling, and financial literacy—critical resources for those working to rebuild their lives.
Founder Brian Broadway and Development Coordinator Holly Grant shared sobering statistics underscoring the urgency of their mission. Florida ranks 20th in the nation for domestic violence cases and 4th among all states for the number of homeless children. Even more concerning, 33% of homeless children experience a major mental health issue by the age of eight. Closer to home in Lake County, 64% of disabled veterans and single mothers are being priced out of housing.
By combining immediate relief with long-term solutions, Find, Feed & Restore continues to make a meaningful difference in the South Lake community and beyond. (FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VISIT website – FIND, FEED, RESTORE)
SSS NON-EMERGENCY MEDICAL TRANSPORT
The co-event sponsor, SSS Non-Emergency Medical Transport, represented by Anganie Ali, shared information about their services. The company is committed to ensuring that every journey is more than just transportation—it is an experience that provides confidence and peace of mind. Services include wheelchair, gurney, and lift-assisted transportation, ideal for doctor appointments, hospital visits, senior living facilities, road trips, and more. (For additional information, call 352-217-6505 / 352-217-6504
JASMINE GAINES IS AWARDED THE RAY GOODGAME LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP
Jasmine Gaines, a student at East Ridge High School, was awarded the Ray Goodgame Leadership Scholarship. To learn more, visit Goodgame Scholarship.
Additional highlights included:
- Betsy Sorg shared updates on the One-Million Cups program and upcoming opportunities.
- The Chamber encouraged sponsorship participation for its upcoming Teacher Appreciation event this summer.
- The Chamber also announced it is managing rentals for the Clermont City Center, a centrally located venue in downtown Clermont that offers flexible room layouts for a variety of events. For more information or to schedule a tour, contact Hanna at the front desk.
