Working together to build The Garden of Hope

COMMUNITY MEMBERS WORK TOGETHER TO WORK AGAINST DRUNK DRIVING

By Michael Ganci, Editor
Published October 12, 2010, in East Meadow Patch
http://eastmeadow.patch.com/articles/working-together-to-build-the-garden-of-hope

EAST MEADOW, NEW YORK—Recently, members of the community worked together to build the 'Garden of Hope' at Eisenhower Park.

Key Club Division 6 Lt. Governor Domenick Pesce, Division 6 EA Christina Principato and Nassau Community College Circle K President Samantha Pontillo joined members of the East Meadow Kiwanis Club for the hands-on service project.

In the final weeks of his presidency, 2009-2010 East Meadow Kiwanis President James Mancuso formed a partnership with Mother's Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and Nassau County to create a Garden of Hope in Memorial Plaza.

At the center of the Garden of Hope is a life-sized sculpture by artist Michael Alfano depicting a family's tragedy at the scene of an accident involving a drunk driver.  The garden has been planted with trees, shrubs and flowers and including a sprinkler system, lighting and benches.

The President's Project's purpose is to raise awareness of the violent crime and tragedy of drunk driving. Key Clubbers, Circle Kers and Kiwanians worked side by side over several weekends to plant and mulch the garden. The beauty of the garden is a testament to the power of Kiwanis, the community and sponsored youth working together.

"If seeing this Garden of Hope stops even one drunk driver from getting behind the wheel, the back aches and sore muscles will be well worth it," said East Meadow Service Leadership Chair Rich Santer.

For Pesce, he appreciated having an opportunity to be a part of such a special project.

"This is an amazing project that can really save lives.  I am glad Kiwanis President Jim opened it up to Key Club and Circle K," Pesce said.

There will be a public dedication of the garden on Oct. 16 at 11:30 a.m. in Eisenhower Park.