Positive Actions Can Bring Positive Changes

I recently attended a few games of the 2010 NCAA College World Series in Omaha, Neb., the home of this national sports event for more than 50 years. I was there to support our Boys Town kids, who were invited to participate in several Series activities. 

The College World Series has been a great friend to Boys Town, providing opportunities for our boys and girls to be involved and interact in the community. This year, I was especially honored to be out on the field to accept a $10,000 donation to Boys Town from Reese’s and HyVee.

The people I met at the games from other parts of the country amazed me with how much they knew about Omaha! Many had visited the zoo and knew all about the riverfront development. Some even asked me if I knew about Father Flanagan and his famous “Boys Town”!

Even with all these great things going on, if you asked anyone who lives here what our problems are as a city, they could easily list them: unemployment, traffic problems, overcrowded schools, gun violence, gangs, poverty and others. We're great at seeing the negative.

But like Father Flanagan, we also need to have a vision of how we can solve our social problems. With the wisdom that comes from our faith, we can perform "mighty deeds" like he did.

Just as Father Flanagan rebuilt the lives of despised street children through his faith, you can contribute to making your city or town a better community, no matter where you live. All it takes is a few caring individuals to motivate others to change. Use your talents and skills to become involved in your child’s school, take on a more active role in your place of worship, volunteer, or simply take the extra time to hold open the door for another. These small changes will make a world of difference in your community.

We teach our Boys Town kids every day how it important it is to give back to their community. It’s a lesson we can all take to heart.