Veterans and Families Legacy Park Invites All to Help Build a Place of Remembrance

Veterans, families and caregivers gather at 49 School Street as the community fundraising campaign moves forward

Veterans, families and caregivers recently gathered at 49 School Street beside the newly installed “Coming Soon” sign for the Veterans & Families Legacy Park in Somers, CT. The photograph captures the people this project is meant to honor and welcome: veterans across generations, the families who share their service, and the neighbors who care for them.

The Town of Somers has approved the park as a capital project, and its supporters are seeking donations to fund construction rather than taxpayer dollars. The public campaign goal is $1 million, encompassing project development, construction and long-term care. The sign marks a visible step forward; the park itself remains in planning and fundraising stages.

Envisioned near the Scantic River recreation area, the park will offer a place to walk, reflect and gather. The current concept includes a quarter mile loop with engraved bricks (buy-a-brick fundraiser), gardens and benches, a central American flag plaza, and flags honoring the military services, prisoners of war and those missing in action. The design also includes opportunities to share stories and remember loved ones. Final details depend on engineering, funding and Town approvals.

The Somers Department of Veterans Affairs brought the vision forward and continues to advise the project. The Town’s Veterans and Families Legacy Park Ad Hoc Committee is coordinating its public planning work. Legacy of Service: Somers Veterans Foundation, Inc. is supporting fundraising and community participation. A $10,000 grant from the Greater Hartford Gives Foundation has already supported the effort, with portions designated for planning and construction.

For someone who served, the park can be a place to feel seen. For a child or grandchild, it can be a place to hear a story that might otherwise be lost. For the community, it can be a shared space where remembrance and everyday life meet.

Community members can help by making a contribution, offering professional or in-kind support, or volunteering. Learn more about the project and ways to participate at WWW.LS-SVF.ORG. Every gift and every helping hand moves the park closer to becoming a place Somers and people from everywhere can share for generations.