Meet Christine Cruz
For nearly three decades, I have built a career around leadership, problem-solving, and service.
Eustis has been my home for many years, and it is a community I care deeply about. I have built a career, founded organizations, volunteered alongside neighbors, and served in local leadership because I believe strong communities are created by people who invest in them. Whether through community service, nonprofit leadership, or public office, my goal has always been the same: leave Eustis better than I found it.
As a small business owner, community volunteer, former Interim Eustis City Commissioner, and founder of CleanUp Eustis, I have dedicated my time to helping strengthen the organizations and communities that make our region special.
I believe strong communities are built by people who show up, get involved, and work together to solve problems. That belief has guided both my professional career and my commitment to public service.
Today, I continue to serve our community through local nonprofit organizations, volunteer initiatives, and civic engagement while working to help ensure Eustis remains a place where residents, businesses, and future generations can thrive.
Why I Serve
I’ve never been very good at sitting on the sidelines.
When I see a problem, I want to help solve it. When I see an opportunity to make something better, I want to be part of it. That’s what led me to start CleanUp Eustis, volunteer with local organizations, serve on community boards, and eventually run for public office.
I’ve been fortunate to work alongside some incredible people over the years, and I’ve learned that meaningful change rarely comes from one person. It comes from neighbors, volunteers, businesses, nonprofits, and local leaders working together toward a common goal.
I love Eustis because of its people. Their generosity, resilience, and willingness to help one another are what make this community special. Whether through environmental stewardship, arts and culture, animal welfare, education, or community service, I have always looked for ways to give back and help strengthen the place we call home.
My commitment to service comes from a simple belief: if you have the ability to help, you should. I am grateful for every opportunity I’ve had to serve this community, and I remain committed to helping ensure that Eustis continues to be a place where families, businesses, and future generations can thrive.
Professional Leadership
My professional experience spans communications, marketing, technology, project management, business operations, and organizational leadership.
Throughout my career, I have managed complex projects, led teams, overseen budgets, coordinated strategic initiatives, and helped organizations improve efficiency and achieve their goals. Today, I own Compass Creative Group, where I work with businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations to strengthen their communications, technology, and digital presence.
Prior to launching my business, I served in leadership positions supporting government and commercial clients, gaining valuable experience in operations management, proposal development, strategic planning, budgeting, and team leadership.
These experiences have given me a practical understanding of accountability, responsible financial management, and long-term planning—skills that are equally important in local government.
Community Service & Volunteer Leadership
Service has always been at the heart of who I am.
In 2017, I founded CleanUp Eustis, a volunteer-driven initiative dedicated to protecting our lakes, parks, and public spaces. What began as a simple cleanup effort has grown into a long-running community program that brings residents together to improve and care for our city.
Over the years, I have worked alongside numerous nonprofit and community organizations throughout Lake County, contributing my time, leadership, and expertise to causes focused on conservation, education, arts and culture, animal welfare, and community development.
Current community leadership roles include:
- President, Arts & Cultural Endowment of Eustis (ACEE)
- Board Member, Trout Lake Nature Center
I have also supported organizations including Leash, Inc., Hoffmeyer Animal Rescue, and many other local nonprofits, community groups, and volunteer initiatives throughout the region.
I believe communities thrive when residents actively invest their time, talents, and energy into making them better.
Public Service
In 2024, I had the honor of serving on the Eustis City Commission.
My approach to public service has always been simple: listen carefully, ask questions, seek collaboration, and focus on solutions. I believe local government works best when decisions are transparent, thoughtful, and centered on the people who call Eustis home.
In addition to serving on the City Commission, I have participated on advisory committees, community boards, and civic organizations focused on improving the quality of life in Eustis.
Leadership & Service Highlights
Public Service
Interim Eustis City Commissioner
Community Redevelopment Agency Advisory Committee
Downtown Redevelopment Parking Study Committee
Community Leadership
Founder, CleanUp Eustis
President, Arts & Cultural Endowment of Eustis
Board Member, Trout Lake Nature Center
Volunteer Service
Leash, Inc.
Hoffmeyer Animal Rescue
Numerous community and nonprofit organizations throughout Lake County
Recognition
Lake 100 Volunteer of the Year (2023)
United Way Hometown Hero Nominee (2022)
Lake & Sumter Style Best of the Best Volunteer (2018–2020)
Eustis Chamber Public Service Award (2017)