Boy Scout Honors Promise to Build Community Garden

Just six months after an inspirational conversation, Patrick Murphy, 16, of Boy Scout Troop 55 in Garden City stood before a grateful crowd to dedicate the garden he designed and built for the residents of the Westbury Community Residence, part of a network of homes operated by the nonprofit organization Mercy Haven, Inc.

The Westbury Community Residence is home to 10 residents of Mercy Haven, an organization that provides housing and support to adults living with mental illness and other conditions.

The goal of the Community Residence is to help residents learn skills that make it possible for them to live independently. In locations throughout Long Island, Mercy Haven emphasizes the beauty of its houses – and gardens – to help restore the dignity and hope of its residents.

Murphy was inspired to create a garden after speaking with John Bendick and his wife, Jackie, at Mercy Haven’s 25th anniversary gala, held in October 2010. Mr. Bendick was an active and passionate member of Mercy Haven’s board of directors. Sadly, John Bendick passed away only four days after Mercy Haven’s gala.

Patrick chose to do his Eagle Scout project at Mercy Haven as a tribute to John's and Jackie’s devotion to the agency, dedicating the garden to Mr. Bendick.

The project began in January, when Patrick submitted a 15-page proposal to Mercy Haven, detailing each step of the process. Following his plan, Patrick solicited donations from local business and individual donors for plants and materials.

Sponsors of the project included: Home Depot, Hick’s Nursery, Garden City Bird Sanctuary, Martin Viette, Mrs. Stumps, Mrs. Eaton, Mrs. Alvey and The Timmons Family.

Next, Patrick spoke with the administrator of the Westbury Community Residence, Maureen Gill, to tailor the plan to residents’ needs and wishes. Since many residents enjoy cooking Italian food, for instance, Patrick included an herb garden with plenty of basil. A vegetable patch includes lettuce, tomatoes and other “salad fixin’s." He planned an annual/perennial garden with shrubs that attract butterflies and a bird feeder. And to ensure a place for quiet respite, he included two seating areas, included a glider bench and a covered double swing in a shady area of the yard.

Patrick installed the garden over a 4-6 week period in April and May with the help of volunteer scouts and family and friends who dedicated their time and resources. He also presented the staff and residents with training as to how to maintain the garden and use the composter included in the garden.

For the dedication, Patrick provided a tour of the garden to Mercy Haven residents, staff and guests.

“The covered swing is already my favorite,” said one resident, who smiled as he followed Patrick on the tour. “It’s nice and shady, and you can see so many beautiful things from here.”

Among those on hand to celebrate the new garden were Mercy Haven executive director Sister Pat Griffith and Jackie Bendick.

“I’m blown away by this beautiful garden,” Mrs. Bendick said as she examined the before and after photos that Patrick had on display.  “John would have loved this.”

After the tour, Patrick presented Mrs. Bendick with a stepping stone that dedicated the garden to her late husband.

Patrick submitted his project to the Eagle Scout Board of Review and will receive his badge at the Eagle Court of Honor in early 2012.