A trip to Boys' Town of Rome

Boys’ Town of Rome was more than anything I could have prepared myself for. It was a very special experience, an unforgettable one at that. As all 50 of us gallivanted up the drive way, we passed a few citizens who were working together on yard work. We received a warm welcome and then we were off to learn more about the orphanage that Monsignor Carroll-Abbing successfully started over 50 years ago. His mission to create a new chance at life for young boys at risk was accomplished by his courage and the help of many people. Monsignor Carroll-Abbing felt it very important to make the community as real life as possible for the boys. So a democracy was implemented through a hierarchical structure. The “city” of Boys’ Town is run by the mayor, who is elected by the citizens. We were fortunate enough to meet the present mayor, a young boy from Morocco. He was very friendly and accepting of us and happy to answer any questions we had. After just a short visit, I really felt the brotherhood between the boys who seemed to look after one another as if they were one big family. Leaving with a smile upon my face and a sense of satisfaction, I strongly suggest visiting Boys’ Town if you have the chance.

Boys' Town of Rome

From what I gather, Boys’ Town of Rome was founded in 1955 by Monsignor John Patrick Carroll-Abbing to aid refugees throughout Italy. It is located south-west of Rome and is run by religious orders and civic organizations. The main concern of the organization is to create a healthy safe haven for underprivileged or at “risk” boys. Here the young boys have the opportunity to live and work in a self-governing community and receive not only an academic education but also the confidence and encouragement to be all that they can be. I look forward to our visit and hope to learn more about the functions and structure of this non-profit organization.