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Mayor Walker: Community Service Takes Center Stage as Parkland Remembers MSD Victims

by Guest Contributer February 1, 2026

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Mayor Walker: Community Service Takes Center Stage as Parkland Remembers MSD Victims 1

Parkland Mayor Rich Walker.

A Message from Mayor Rich Walker

Can you think of a time when someone did something kind for you out of the blue, or helped you when you really needed it? You felt appreciative, humble, and safe.

That warm feeling is the energizing and uplifting power of community service.

Every February, students in Broward County Public Schools participate in Day of Service, a voluntary effort that supports worthy community causes and reaches those in need across multiple areas, in honor of the victims of the February 14, 2018, MSD tragedy.

On Day of Service, students join others to plant gardens, build sensory-friendly toys, pack care bundles, sing songs about hope and love, and lend a helping hand in dozens of areas.

Our sense of community in the City of Parkland is integral to our well-being and our ability to continue to thrive. With even the smallest show of support for those around us, we can lift one another up and help our loved ones and neighbors achieve our goals in 2026.

February marks the eighth anniversary of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School tragedy. As we commemorate the lives lost this month, let’s not just think of who needs help – let’s do something to serve others.

On Saturday, February 14, 2026, at the Amphitheatre at Pine Trails Park, we will hold the eight-year Commemoration event to honor and remember the 17 victims. Every year, this event serves as a humbling reminder of those who were taken and of how our community comes together to honor them and comfort one another.

This season, think about how you can help someone, a group, or an organization, and offer your time or talents to great causes. These small gestures and moments in time make a big difference. They are the seeds we plant when we set out to build community. Commemoration has taught us that love conquers all and keeps us strong.

And while love is the foundation that fortifies our resolve to support each other, community service fosters the connections that allow us to grow.

If you would like to share your thoughts or if you have questions or comments you would like to share, I would love to hear from you. I can be reached via e-mail at rwalker@cityofparkland.org or via cell phone at (973) 390-1453. Of course, I am frequently available monthly at Parkland businesses and love to talk with residents there. I encourage you to visit the City’s website cityofparkland.org and click on the social media icon that you prefer, to ensure that you stay informed on events and helpful information.

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