What to Know
- The sold out “We Are Stoneman Douglas” Fundraiser was held at the Parkland Golf & Country Club with more than 500 people in attendance.
- The MSD jazz band entertained the crowd and MSD Drama performed “Shine”, the song co-written and produced by MSD students.
The residents of Parkland came together Sunday night for an event with a different tone from the headlines of the past two months.
The sold out “We Are Stoneman Douglas” Fundraiser was held at the Parkland Golf & Country Club with more than 500 people in attendance. Friends and neighbors gathered, along with a number of students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High school and family members of victims of the recent shooting.
The MSD jazz band entertained the crowd and MSD Drama performed “Shine”, the song co-written and produced by MSD students Sawyer Garrity and Andrea Pena.
“After the tragedy, we all knew we needed something that was uplifting to the community,” said George Temel, co-chairperson of the fundraiser. “This brought everyone together so we could feel good again about living in Parkland.”
Toll Brothers donated the facility and more than 30 local restaurants participated to support the cause.
“The outpouring of support has been overwhelming with the amount of spirit and generosity shown,” said Debi Weisman, another Co-Chair of the event. “It’s good to see people with a smile on their face.”
Local
The event generated more than $230,000 through ticket sales and auction items. The money will benefit the Broward Education Foundation, specifically dedicated to victims' families, the medical costs for the injured, and the emotional needs of survivors.
“Everyone wants to help in every way they can, even if their beliefs are different on what needs to change,” said event attendee, Lisa Ponczek. “I hope the strength and cohesiveness of Parkland and Coral Springs can help these families heal.”
NBC 6 was proud to sponsor the event.
