Chapter V: “The work will continue, you see… ”

Shortly after Father Flanagan’s death, Monsignor Nicholas Wegner was appointed the director of the home, to carry on Father Flanagan’s dream. Under his direction, the growth and development delayed by World War II was continued. Boys Town expanded both physically at its campus near Omaha, and in its extension of youth services nationally and internationally. Under Monsignor Wegner’s guidance most of the buildings on campus were built. He is also credited with helping build Boys Town’s solid financial base.

Monsignor Robert Hupp succeeded Monsignor Wegner in 1973, and during his 12 years of leadership, pioneered many new programs to meet the complicated needs of today’s youth. Father Hupp created the Home’s successful family based system of child care and in 1979, the Home opened its traditionally all-male campus to girls. Four years later, five girls were the first to graduate from the Home. Today, girls from all over the U.S. live in the Village of Boys Town and make up nearly half of its population.

Father Val Peter assumed the role of Executive Director in 1985 and helped Boys Town grow once again. He expanded the organization to bring help, healing and hope to sites in 14 states and the District of Columbia.

On July 1, 2005, Father Steven Boes, vowed to continue the legacy first started by Father Flanagan. Father Boes said, “Father Flanagan’s legacy – ‘The work will continue you see, because it is God’s work, not mine’ – is what I will attempt to live up to. God’s work has pointed me in this direction, and I must keep focused on saving these children in desperate need.”

Today, the Village of Boys Town, a National Historic Landmark District, spans 900 acres of land, 400 of which are cultivated farm fields. The rest serves as the campus. There are more than 95 buildings, among them 71 homes in 60 buildings for Boys Town residents and their Family-Teachers. The highly trained married couples guide each youth during his or her stay.

Read what students say about Boys Town.

Learn more about the history of Boys Town through these books .