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South Florida Spirit of Family Recognized as Boys Town
More than 200 attendees shared in the spirit of family and Father Flanagan’s dream during the Boys Town of South Florida Spirit of Family Awards Nov. 2, raising vital resources for programs benefiting hurting children and families.
The sell-out 1920s-themed event held at the Historic Harriet Himmel Theater in the heart of City Place, West Palm Beach, honored a South Florida family for their work to create a healthy home for children, and Boys Town’s 90th Anniversary.
“We are so honored that so many of our friends and families came to recognize this milestone for Boys Town and for South Florida’s hurting children and families,” said Amy Simpson, Boys Town of South Florida Site Director.
The Spirit of Family Award, which honors a family that has shown tremendous growth under Boys Town programs, was presented to Judi and Larry Baker, and their three grandchildren. The family began working with Boys Town of South Florida in August 2006, and with the help of their family-consultant, learned how to solve serious behavioral challenges and now enjoy spending time together.
“This family inspires me because the grandparents completely changed their lives around for their grandchildren and in the midst have changed the boys’ lives around,” said Pam Heck, the Boys Town of South Florida Consultant who worked closely with the family. “The family has shown a lot of commitment to each other.”
Performing at the gala were dancers from the Dreyfuss School of the Arts. And through silent and live auctions and sponsorships for the evening, the gala generated vital resources for Boys Town of South Florida Family-Based Programs. The programs further the mission Father Flanagan began in 1917 to change the way America cares for her children and families, and continue his dream of helping, healing and providing hope to those others have forgotten.
“Father Flanagan had a dream and he started changing America’s treatment of children,” said Simpson. “Much has been improved, but there is still a great need.”
Boys Town will celebrate its 90th Anniversary on Dec. 12, 2007. Click here to learn more about special anniversary events near you.
