Boys Town New Jersey
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Boys Town New Jersey youth helped create a living tribute to Father Flanagan with Overlook Garden.
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Overlook Garden Honors Father Flanagan’s Living Legacy
On July 13, the children of Boys Town New Jersey celebrated Father Flanagan’s 121st birthday by creating Overlook Garden – a tribute to Father Flanagan.
Overlook Garden is a small vegetable garden next to the shelter and will serve as daily a reminder of Father Flanagan and the history behind the organization he founded. The youth voted on the name of the garden, designed and painted a sign, and planted tomatoes, peppers, blueberries and many herbs.
When the garden was complete, the staff and youth held a dedication ceremony. Together they reflected on Father Flanagan’s dream and the ways he continues to change lives every day.
“Father Flanagan believed in freedom of religion and we practice that,” reflected Sarah, a Boys Town New Jersey youth. “Everyone has a right to practice their own religion.”
“Father Flanagan built a place where kids would learn important skills, things to help you change and to help you in life when you leave here, that’s why you have to finish the program” said Ashley, another Boys Town New Jersey youth. “This is a place where people teach you skills how to cope with your feelings, so you don’t have to loose control.”
“The gift for me, is seeing the changes that every one of you makes when you come here to be a part of this family” said Jami Hart, Boys Town New Jersey Youth Care Worker.
After the ceremony, youth, staff and family members celebrated with a summer cookout – a fitting finish to a hard day’s work. |
