Boys Town Celebrates 2025: A Year of Meaningful Growth, Achievements and Service
As we prepare for a new year, Boys Town honors the milestones that defined 2025 and strengthened the mission of hope and healing.
From celebrating 50 years of the Family Home Program and breaking ground on a major hospital expansion to launching the first-ever Boys Town Olympics and earning prestigious research awards, the organization reached new heights. This year also brought recognition to inspiring alumni, continued Father Flanagan's sainthood journey, and strengthened the cherished traditions that make Boys Town a place of hope and belonging.
🏡 Family Home Program Celebrates 50 Years of Changing Lives
In 1974, Boys Town took a bold leap from institutional care to family-centered homes, creating the groundbreaking Family Home Program. For five decades, this approach has provided thousands of children with the nurturing relationships they need to heal and thrive in a true family environment. Explore five decades of family-centered care.
✞ Father Flanagan's Journey Toward Sainthood Continues
Boys Town founder Father Edward J. Flanagan, who believed "there's no such thing as a bad boy," is progressing through the Catholic Church's rigorous canonization process. His legacy of faith, compassion, and service to forgotten children continues to inspire the mission that shapes Boys Town today. Learn about Father Flanagan's path to canonization.
🧑🏼🎄 Holiday Traditions Create Joy and Belonging at Boys Town
From Father Flanagan's earliest Christmas celebrations to today's festivities, Boys Town ensures every child experiences the magic of the season. The 2025 celebrations include concerts, tree lighting ceremonies, and a Candyland-themed Christmas in the Village, creating cherished memories for generations. Experience the magic of Christmas at Boys Town.
🔬 Researcher Receives Grant to Study Autism and Puberty
Dr. Giorgia Picci received a Young Investigator Grant from the Brain Behavior Research Foundation to study how adolescents with autism experience puberty. Her groundbreaking work at the CANDY Lab will explore whether this developmental stage increases vulnerability to anxiety and depression. Learn about this groundbreaking research.
🏥 Boys Town Breaks Ground on Major Hospital Expansion
A 254,000-square-foot expansion at Boys Town National Research Hospital will bring additional patient beds, surgical suites, and research space. The project includes the Dr. Wayne L. Ryan Clinic and Research Center, advancing scientific work and pediatric care for children with complex medical needs. See how this expansion will serve children.
🚐 Mobile Research Lab Takes Boys Town Science on the Road
The Boys Town Research Vehicle traveled across nine cities in 2024, bringing hospital-grade hearing and speech testing equipment to communities nationwide. This mobile laboratory expands research populations and helps reduce healthcare disparities while enabling groundbreaking studies far beyond Omaha. Follow the Research Vehicle's journey.
👕 Historic Jersey Retirement Honors NFL Star Shaquil Barrett
At the inaugural Boys Town All-Star Youth Awards, NFL standout and Boys Town alumnus Shaquil Barrett became the first athlete in Boys Town history to have his jersey retired. The Super Bowl champion's number 57 will never be worn again, inspiring future generations. Celebrate this first-ever Boys Town honor.
🏈 Alumna Shares Journey from Boys Town to Professional Sports
Amanda Martinez, massage therapist for the New Orleans Pelicans and Saints, credits Boys Town with teaching her the grit and resilience that shaped her career. The skills she learned as a teenager in the Family Home Program continue to guide her professional success and parenting approach. See Amanda's story of grit and resilience.
🦻 Audiology Researcher Honored with Early Career Award
Dr. Gabrielle Merchant received the 2025 Early Career Research Award from the American Auditory Society for her work improving ear infection diagnosis in children. Her research provides healthcare providers with better tools to make precise decisions about treatment and care. Explore her work improving pediatric care.
🏆 Louisiana Leadership Honored with Prestigious Awards
Boys Town Louisiana Executive Director Rashain Williams was named one of CityBusiness' 2025 Women of the Year and inducted into their Hall of Fame. Boys Town Louisiana also received recognition as one of the Nonprofits of the Year for exceptional service to the community. Meet the team behind this recognition.
🎬 Documentary "Blue Baby" Makes Impact in New York City
Sold-out screenings of the documentary "Blue Baby" sparked powerful conversations about juvenile justice and rehabilitation. Panel discussions featuring former Boys Town youth and advocates highlighted the importance of preventative services and the positive outcomes achieved through Boys Town programs. Watch highlights from the panel discussion.
🥇 First-Ever Boys Town Olympics Creates Lasting Memories
A week of creative competitions brought joy and community to Boys Town's campus. From inflatable horse equestrian jumping to three-legged race triathlons, families competed as "countries" for medals, creating unforgettable experiences that show children what love, teamwork, and celebration truly mean. See the joy and excitement from this special week.
🏅 Three Distinguished Alumni Join Hall of History
Sheila Dwyer-Cornett, Rod James, and Kenneth Geddes were inducted into the Boys Town Hall of History. Their remarkable achievements include college degrees earned against the odds, decades of community service, professional sports careers, and unwavering dedication to helping others succeed. See their inspiring stories of achievement.
