Parkland Strong Benefit Concert Raises Money for the Stoneman Douglas Victims’ Fund

by Sharon Aron Baron August 6, 2018

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Parkland Strong Benefit Concert Raises Money for the Stoneman Douglas Victims’ Fund 2

From left to right: Brett Russell -AEG Presents; Pejay Ryan – Broward Education Foundation; Von Freeman – 104.3 The Shark; Chad Gilbert – New Found Glory; Cyrus Bolooki – New Found Glory; Ian Grushka – New Found Glory; Jordan Pundik – New Found Glory; and Jeff Chabon – AEG Presents. Photo by: Ron Elkman.

By: Sharon Aron Baron

The sold-out #ParklandStrong, A Benefit for the Victims of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas School Shooting held in May raised over $116,000 for the victim’s fund.

“We are honored to have done our part in supporting the victims’ fund,” said John Valentino, Senior Vice President of AEG Presents. “Working in conjunction with the City of Pompano Beach, Entercom Radio Miami and an array of outstanding performers, we were able to create a very special evening that united the community and paid tribute to the victims.”

All proceeds from the event including ticket sales, concessions, merchandise and sponsorships were donated to Broward Education Foundation’s Stoneman Douglas Victims’ Fund.

The concert was produced by AEG Presents, in partnership with Entercom Radio Miami’s 104.3 The Shark, New Found Glory and the City of Pompano Beach featuring New Found Glory, Chris Carrabba of Dashboard Confessional, William Ryan Key formerly of Yellowcard and speed painter Michael Israel.

Broward Education Foundation’s Stoneman Douglas Victims’ Fund collected $10.5 million, and on July 16, the fund began distribution of the money according to the plans set forth by the Stoneman Douglas Victims’ Fund Steering committee.

“Set against a backdrop of love and compassion, and with a backbeat of generosity and support, the #ParklandStrong Concert was an amazing night of community commitment and healing,” said Pejay Ryan, Broward Education Foundation’s Director of Marketing. “The fact that so many artists and businesses generously contributed their time and talent to create an evening as special as this one is truly heartwarming. On behalf of the Stoneman Douglas community, Broward Education Foundation extends sincere and heartfelt thanks to all who made it possible and to all who attended the #ParklandStrong Concert.”

Broward Education Foundation, in close coordination with GoFundMe, and in agreement with the National Center for Victims of Crime which administers the National Compassion Fund, has led the fundraising efforts for victims’ families, survivors and those impacted by the horrific tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. The Stoneman Douglas Victims’ Fund steering committee led by former Senator George S. LeMieux and comprised of business, civic and philanthropic leaders was charged with fundraising, and determining the allocation and distribution of funds raised.

“This evening exemplified the power music has to unite our community,” said John O’Connell, Entercom Radio Miami Programming Director. “The artists’ heartfelt performances allowed us to simultaneously grieve, celebrate and remember. We are extremely grateful to all those who made this night possible and who supported this important cause.”

Author Profile

Sharon Aron Baron

Sharon Aron Baron is a Parkland resident and editor of Talk Media. She has been covering Parkland news since 2012. Parkland Talk was created to provide News, Views, and Entertainment for the residents of Parkland.