MMA Cadets Put Leadership Into Action Through Community Service, Fall 2026

Missouri Military Academy cadets put one of the Academy’s core values, selfless service, into action Sept. 11 during MMA’s fall 2026 Community Service Day.

The corps of cadets spent the day serving organizations throughout Mexico and surrounding communities. Cadets volunteered at the Missouri Veterans Home, The Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri in Columbia, Mexico Area YMCA, Hickory Ridge Orchard, The Oaks Golf Course, Williams Family Center, City of Mexico Parks and Recreation and other community organizations.

Feature photo above: Middle school cadets help with landscaping at the Audrain County Historical Society. The group was led by faculty member Ethan Everhart.

Below, from left: Cadets Connor Wall and Joshua Atkinson measure, sort and pack food at The Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri. The group was led by faculty members Peggy Reynard and Michael Pemberton.

Above, high school cadets clear trees along the Green Estate Park walking path.

From assisting with outdoor projects and packing food to spending time with veterans and children, cadets made a difference in their communities while strengthening their leadership and character.

MMA cadets contribute approximately 8,000 hours of community service each year. These experiences are an important part of the Academy’s 360° Education, helping cadets understand the responsibility that comes with leadership and the importance of serving others.

Above, middle school cadets race with children at the Williams Family Center. Photo courtesy of faculty member Cheryl Morris.

Each year, every MMA high school cadet contributes at least 16 hours of community service, while every middle school cadet contributes at least eight hours. These opportunities allow cadets to give back to the communities that support the Academy while reinforcing MMA’s values of honor, integrity and selfless service.

Service at MMA extends beyond completing a task. Whether cadets are helping with physical work, supporting a local organization or spending time with others, they learn that leadership begins with a willingness to serve.

Through Community Service Day and service opportunities throughout the year, MMA cadets strengthen their communities while developing the character, responsibility and compassion expected of tomorrow’s leaders.

Above, Cadet Burle assists students in the library at Eugene Field Elementary.

View more photos from the fall 2026 Community Service Day.