Teenagers volunteering at a fundraising tent with a table filled with artwork

In Cooper City, meaningful moments often grow from simple community gatherings allowing neighbors to connect, families spending time together, and local organizations coming together with a shared purpose. At Memorial Park, the recurring Cooper City Farmers Market has become exactly that kind of place, a welcoming space where community spirit thrives and partnerships take root.

The City of Cooper City has proudly supported local businesses and organizers who have helped transform the Farmers Market into a fun, family-friendly experience for residents of all ages. Each market brings fresh food, local vendors, entertainment, and opportunities for conversation and connection, reinforcing major pillars that make Cooper City truly Someplace Special.

During the February 8 Farmers Market, that spirit of connection proved how it can lead to something even greater.

Arc Broward, a longtime community partner dedicated to empowering people with disabilities and other life challenges to live, learn, work, and thrive, participated in the market with a booth featuring Miss Arc Teen Ambassadors. The ambassadors helped raise awareness for the upcoming Miss Arc Broward Pageant while sharing positivity and inspiration with visitors throughout the day.

Thanks to the enthusiasm and generosity of residents, hundreds of dollars were raised in support of Arc Broward’s mission. The energy at the booth reflected the very best of community involvement: young leaders giving back, families learning about inclusion, and neighbors supporting a meaningful cause.

But the impact of the day extended beyond fundraising.

Through conversations and connections made at the Farmers Market, Arc Broward was introduced to Essential Farm to Family, a key partner responsible for helping organize and deliver the vibrant market experience enjoyed by residents and visitors. That introduction led to a powerful outcome with Essential Farm to Family hiring two Arc Broward participants, creating real employment opportunities right here in our community.

What began as a small connection at a community event became a lasting example of how collaboration can open doors and change lives.

Members of the Cooper City Commission have long supported Arc Broward’s mission, recognizing that strong communities are built when everyone is given the opportunity to participate and succeed.

This story is a reminder that when local government, community organizations, businesses, and residents come together, extraordinary things can happen. From awareness to opportunity, from conversation to employment, the Cooper City Farmers Market demonstrated how small moments can lead to lasting impact.

That’s the power of our community and another reason Cooper City will always be Someplace Special.