Benches, Merry-Go-Round Get New Life Thanks To Hillsborough Boy Scout

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — One Hillsborough park got a facelift recently thanks to local Boy Scout Dashiel Workman of Troop 489.

Workman refurbished the benched and merry-go-round at Docherty Park as part of his community service project for his Boy Scouts of America Eagle Scout rank.

"I chose Docherty Park for my project because it seemed underutilized and lacked the vibrancy that would make it an inviting space for the community. I don’t know anyone who regularly visits the park, which suggests that it may not currently serve as a popular gathering place," said Workman to Patch. " By refurbishing the benches and merry-go-round, I aim to revitalize the park and make it more appealing for families and individuals. My goal is to raise awareness about this park as a valuable community resource and encourage more people to visit and enjoy it."

It took Workman roughly six months to complete the project due to several factors, including weather conditions, coordinating volunteer availability, obtaining permission from the town, and managing other external challenges that added to the timeline.

To complete the refurbishment of the benches and merry-go-round at Docherty Park, Workman needed to raise funds to cover the cost of materials and supplies.

"I successfully raised around $1,500, which allowed me to purchase everything necessary for the project. The process involved planning, securing approvals, organizing workdays, and overseeing the actual refurbishment, all of which required significant effort and coordination," said Workman.

Workman was able to complete the project last weekend.

"I am incredibly proud of Dash for planning and completing this project. He is committed to supporting his community, so this project was another example of his commitment to service," said Workman's father Rodnell. "Furthermore, I am proud of how he was able to organize and lead his fellow scouts to support the project's execution. Completing this project is also the last step in Dash's journey to obtaining his Eagle Scout rank. His family is excited for him."

Workman said completing this project was an "incredibly fulfilling and rewarding experience."

"While I've often volunteered and participated in a wide range of activities, including student council, Future Business Leaders of America, Business Club, Black Student Union, firefighting, football, track and field, and other extracurriculars, this was my first time leading a service project of this scale," said Workman. "It was a unique experience that challenged me to take on more responsibility and to organize others in pursuit of a shared goal. Knowing that my efforts have made a tangible impact on the community fills me with a sense of pride and accomplishment. It’s uplifting to see the results of the work and to know that I’ve contributed to creating a space that others can enjoy for years to come."

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.