The next time you visit Mark Twain School Park in Lynwood, you’re going to notice a big change.
There are some new trees and plants thanks to a young man who thought he could make a difference.
His name is Joshua Murillo and the project was part of his effort to become an Eagle Scout, the highest designation in the Boy Scouts.
“One of the requirements is doing a community service project that has a lasting visible impact,” he said. “Because I’m from Lynwood, I wanted to do something that benefited my city.”
City leaders were very helpful. Councilmember Aide Castro and City Manager Jose Ometeotl enthusiastically endorsed the idea and the Public Works Department helped with materials and employees.
Joshua is a recent graduate of Downey High School and he recruited volunteers from his track and cross country teams and his sister’s Girl Scout troop to help get rid of the dead foliage and then, plant trees and new plants in the bare areas.
In fact, he recruited so many people to help in the project they were finished two hours ahead of schedule last Saturday (July 28)
“I congratulate Joshua and his family for giving back to our city,” said Councilmember Castro. “He achieved his goal of making a visible impact because the park looks fantastic.”
His mom and dad joined their son and daughter in the work, and they are, justifiably, very proud of Joshua.
“He’s one of those go-getters,” said Carmen Murillo. “He’s been in scouts since he was in kindergarten and he’s still going at it. We are very proud of our son.”
To become an Eagle Scout is very demanding and Joshua still has some work to do in order to earn this rare accomplishment.
“What Joshua worked on today requires every single leadership skill he’s been working on – it’s one of the most important projects for an Eagle Scout,” said Jose Medina, Scout Master.
Now Joshua must develop a workbook that will include before and after pictures and summary of the project which will be sent to Scout authorities who will judge his work and his merit as a potential Eagle Scout.
Those of us who have met him, think they’ll make the right decision.
This fall, Joshua will enter the University of New Mexico as a Marine ROTC Scholar.
The City of Lynwood is proud of him and what he has accomplished not only in the classroom, but for his community.