Nonprofit Organization Award (annual budget less than $100,000) for Beautification & Landscaping - Laverne Beautification Committee

At the focal point of downtown Laverne stood a dilapidated shell of what once was a convenience store.  Where everyone else saw an eyesore, the Laverne Beautification Committee saw a terrific opportunity.

After raising an amazing 25-thousand dollars by private donations, the volunteers began clearing the lot on what would become a wonderful memorial to United States veterans.  Inmates from the nearby correctional facility and the owner of Laverne Lumber constructed a wall from bricks engraved with the names of veterans.  Soon, the other elements fell into place and the project was completed in time for a moving dedication ceremony on July Fourth.

The handsome landscaping of the new park caught the attention of our judges. They also lauded the vision of turning a blighted property into a place of honor and remembrance.

For your excellence in planning and carrying through with the hard work, Laverne Beautification Committee, tonight we recognize your inspirational labors to create the Laverne Veteran’s Memorial Park, and we salute you!