- January 2, 2026
Growing up, the South Ormond Neighborhood Center was a safe haven for Tiara Glenn.
It was a place she and the other kids in her neighborhood went to use the computers, find a quiet classroom to do their homework, or simply have fun on the playground. This was especially true for those of them that attended summer camps. They were on the playground long before SONC's doors opened, and would stay as late as they could before city staff told them they had to go home.
As the assistant recreation center coordinator at SONC, Glenn is now one of those city staff members, and she longs to foster the same kind of environment there that she had growing up.
"It looks the same," Glenn said. "The involvement is not the same. ... It's less, but we're working on trying to get it back more."
Born and raised in Ormond Beach, Glenn participated in the Ormond Beach Police Athletic League Youth Directors Council. SONC has long been a hub of OBPAL activity, and it was Glenn's sister and older cousin who were involved with the outreach group first.
Glenn said she initially avoided getting involved, but was encouraged to do so when she was about 13 years old.
"I finally gave in and honestly, it was the best opportunity for me," Glenn said.
Tiara Glenn is a true pillar of the Ormond Beach community. She has consistently gone above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of those around her. Whether through volunteer work, mentorship, or supporting local initiatives, her unwavering commitment to service sets a remarkable example for all." — Avery Randolph, 2025 Standing O
During her time with the OBPAL Youth Directors Council, Glenn completed over 1,000 hours of community service. In 2018, she received several scholarships that allowed her to attend Edward Waters College in Jacksonville after graduating from Mainland High School.
OBPAL Coach Avery Randolph was one of her mentors, and has been working closely with her since she began her career with the City of Ormond Beach in 2022 as a recreation leader. He nominated Glenn for a Standing O due to her dedication, hard work and achievements in the community.
"Tiara Glenn is a true pillar of the Ormond Beach community," Randolph said. "She has consistently gone above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of those around her. Whether through volunteer work, mentorship, or supporting local initiatives, her unwavering commitment to service sets a remarkable example for all."
Though Glenn has a busy work schedule, Randolph said she still volunteers her time with the OBPAL Youth Leadership Council, where she helps with initiatives like their annual Christmas party.
"Her involvement has positively impacted countless lives, strengthened community bonds, inspired others to give back and created change that will be felt for years to come," Randolph said. "Beyond her volunteerism, Tiara demonstrates leadership through action. Tiara’s leadership, integrity, and commitment to serve others make her an outstanding example of what it means to give back — and why Ormond Beach is such a special place."
Glenn said she'd like to host programs at SONC for the youth, such as movie and game nights. Growing up, Glenn said, these things were available for the neighborhood kids.
When she was young, she wanted to be a teacher. As she volunteered at SONC as a youth junior counselor, it just further solidified her desire to help kids.
SONC Recreation Leader Liviston Edwards often shares quotes and advice with her. One that's stuck with her recently is about leadership.
"True leaders don't dim the lights around them," Glenn recited. "They help others shine."
Glenn said she loves to be able to put a smile on people's faces at SONC, especially the pickleball players who come by in the morning to play.
What motivates her?
"Kids," she said. "Leading them on the right path, being able to be one of the resources, because growing up, I had a lot of the resources."
