It all started with an unassuming patch of grass around the flagpole at Roosevelt Care Center in Edison that drew the eye of a 16-year-old volunteer.
In a single glance, Vraj Shah of Edison, who has volunteered with the long-term and sub-acute care center’s recreation department for several months now, caught sight of yet another way that the facility might benefit from his presence.
Accompanied by supervising adults and members of his Boy Scouts of America Troop 66 in Edison, Vraj spent the better parts of July 9 and 10 beautifying the flagpole grounds. He planted perennials and installed pavers as part of the requirements he must meet to reach Eagle Scout rank.
“That flag means a lot to some of our residents, many of whom spent time in the service or were military spouses,” said Middlesex County Freeholder Deputy Director Carol Bellante, liaison to the Middlesex County Improvement Authority, the entity tasked with Roosevelt’s management. “We’re thankful that Vraj took the initiative to make it even more accessible and improve the aesthetic of the area.”
The fundraising portion of the project kicked off in June, when Vraj tapped into the generosity of his local temple and a few corporate sponsors, drawing more than $800 from donors.
Other contributions came in the form of supplies, such as $900 worth of pavers that Clayton Companies provided, $400 in flowers Barton Nursery donated, and water BJs offered the project’s volunteers.
“This is a great story because of all that he did to accomplish this,” said Dr. Frank Damiani , administrator of Roosevelt Care Center in Edison. “It was the talk of the facility and the residents enjoyed watching all the activity. It was a true community effort and a great demonstration of the youth’s commitment to volunteer in the facility.”
Vraj, who aspires to someday become a cardiologist, said Roosevelt residents were the real inspiration for the beautification.
“When they look outside, they’ll see this, and I hope it will bring them joy,” he said.
For more information on Roosevelt Care Centers, visit www.rooseveltcarecenter.com or call
732-360-9839.