You may have seen thousands of our students out and about across the city today—working alongside school staff, community volunteers, and city partners as Gulf Shores Gives Back 2026 came to life in a big, meaningful way. Although the day of service has officially wrapped, the impact of what was accomplished together will continue to ripple throughout our community.
We kicked off the morning with an energizing pep rally on the middle school field, joined by Mayor Robert Craft, city leaders, and our dedicated city employees. Their encouragement set the tone for a day centered on unity, service, and showing what it means to care for the place we call home.
This year’s event held special significance as it was dedicated to the memory of Reverend Chrisy Ennen of First Presbyterian Church. Reverend Ennen was a guiding presence in Gulf Shores and someone whose selflessness shaped the lives of so many. Today, her legacy was reflected in every project, every act of kindness, and every moment of teamwork.
Across Gulf Shores, students from kindergarten to 12th grade took on service projects that touched nearly every corner of the community, including:
• Community Care: Preparing casseroles, stocking blessing boxes, creating snack baskets, and assembling helpful items for neighbors in need.
• City Beautification: Trail maintenance and conservation work in Gulf State Park, beach cleanups, and refreshing public spaces like the pier.
• Neighborly Love: Choral performances at retirement homes, uplifting visits with senior residents, and yard work for local nonprofits such as The Lighthouse.
• Sustainability & Wildlife Support: Building bluebird houses, creating habitats for local wildlife, and participating in turtle conservation efforts along our coast.
Seeing thousands of students step up—eager, determined, and ready to make a difference—was a powerful reminder of the kind of community we are building together. Their enthusiasm was matched by teachers, staff, volunteers, and partners who gave their time, energy, and heart to ensure every project had purpose.
And even if you weren’t part of an official school project today, many of you still got involved—waving, cheering, offering support, or completing your own acts of service. Every bit of kindness mattered, and it all contributed to the collective spirit that makes Gulf Shores such a remarkable place.
Thank you to everyone who helped make Gulf Shores Gives Back 2026 a success. The work may be done for today, but the impact and the inspiration continues.
