Thanks, Good Neighbors

It's clear that no other region of Florida has a development community so committed to doing good works.

Maybe it's partially because Northeast Florida still boasts a significant number of local builders who have deep personal roots here. Yet many of the national builders seem just as concerned about paying their civic dues as the homegrown operations have been.

Whatever the reason, Jacksonville Homebuyer decided last year that such generosity deserved some attention. So we partnered with the Northeast Florida Builders Association to present the first annual Good Neighbor Awards, which recognized builders and developers for the many ways in which they enrich our quality of life and help the less fortunate.

The first event was such a heart-tugging success that we're doing it again. So, welcome to the second annual Good Neighbor Awards.

Of course, some builders are reticent about appearing to "toot their own horns." That's understandable. But we think there are other good reasons to continue-and to expand-the Good Neighbor program.

First, we hope that leaders in other industries might see what builders and developers do, collectively and individually, and follow their lead. Second, we hope that the many charitable causes supported by builders and developers will benefit from the publicity the program generates.

Plus, it's always good to celebrate civic responsibility and the concept of "doing well by doing good." After all, it's abundantly clear that government can't solve all our problems, and that it's up to each of us to do what we can.

In Northeast Florida, that heightened civic awareness is exemplified by NEFBA, which sets the standard and fosters a culture of giving within the industry.

Everybody knows about NEFBA's Builders Care and its high-profile projects, such as the recent Extreme Makeover: Home Edition project. But the organization quietly does great things year-round-everything from renovating substandard homes for the elderly, low income and disabled to adopting needy grandmas for the holidays.

But the good works done through NEFBA tell only part of the story. On an individual basis, Jacksonville's builders and developers support countless great causes.

In this issue, we spotlight 25 of the region's most generous givers. I think you'll be impressed when you consider the number of lives these companies have touched through the activities and organizations they assist.

Also in this issue, we've got stories on outdoor living, remodeling and a look at the trend toward larger homes on smaller lots. Plus, there are the usual comprehensive community directories, school scores and everything else you need to know about living in Northeast Florida.

Enjoy! And if you're buying a home, and your builder is a Good Neighbor recipient, be sure to give him or her a hearty "attaboy."