A playground dedicated to Alyssa Alhadeff is opening on September 18.
By: David Russell
The Grand Opening of a new playground dedicated to the life of Alyssa Alhadeff, a victim of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas shooting, is scheduled for Sunday, September 18, 2022.
The opening comes after a year of development and passionate fundraising by volunteers to cover the $300,000 cost of the playground. According to Lori Alhadeff, Alyssa’s mother and the project’s main organizer, one anonymous donor committed $20,000; however, more funds are still needed.
World-renowned artist and sculptor Joel Amit was commissioned to create a three-dimensional art display of butterflies depicting the word love alongside plaques memorializing fallen loved ones. The art piece can be seen on display at the entrance of the playground.
Individuals and businesses can donate $1,000 to dedicate a personalized butterfly image to be included next to the memorial.
“The butterfly campaign is an opportunity for people to recognize their own personal honoree or family member, but at the same time feel like they are part of the bigger project for Alyssa and her family,” said Rabbi Mendy Gutnick.
The playground features a soccer theme as Alyssa was the captain of her soccer team, sporting the number eight.
“I saw her play the best game of her life the day before the shooting. Alyssa said she felt so too and was proud,” said Lori Alhadeff.
Alyssa’s Playground is located at the Chabad of Parkland, 7170 Loxahatchee Rd in Parkland, and officially opens at 9:30 a.m.
Alhadeff and Rabbi Shui Biston will be giving opening remarks to commemorate the opening.
Lori Alhadeff and her mother, Terri Rabinowitz, present a butterfly to donor Rod Velez in January 2021.
For further questions or inquiries, visit the Chabad of Parkland online or call the main office at (954) 970-9551.
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