Enjoy reading my blog throughout my 7 weeks in Roma this summer! Ciao!

Sunday, June 15, 2008

Boys Town (after)


After visiting the Boys' Town of Rome I have a new found belief that anything is possible if you work hard enough for it. Carroll-Abbing, the founder of Boys' Town, had a vision of a safe place for boys in need of a home, guidance, and education. He, along with many other charitable people, have helped hundreds of thousands of young men become the outstanding citizens we all should strive to be.

While in Boys' Town we were fortunate enough to meet the mayor of the town. He explained to us that he holds the position for only two weeks but after someone new is elected he may campaign again and be re-elected. In the assembly room, the citizens of Boys' Town meet three times a week to discuss problems or issues that need to be addressed. All citizens have the opportunity to speak at these meetings, which can be attended by adults but they may not speak at the meetings.

In the case that someone needs to be reprimanded for their actions, they are brought to the assembly where a judge will find a consequence, usually cleaning the streets or restaurant.

The town seems to be ran very smoothly, considering no one is over the age of eighteen. I was extremely impressed how organized and mature all the boys were at such a young age. I don't know if I would have been able to handle all of the responsibilities they have at their age.

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