My hero is Mr. Darrell Garner. Currently he is the president of the Board of Directors for the West End Community center. Mr. Garner has been a board member of the West End Civic Association for 3 years, a resident of the West End for 12 years and a resident of Hartford for 44 years. He is committed to Hartford and its people. Even though Mr. Garner has had ill health at times, his selflessness, his continual motivation and incredible drive to do good for others never fades. He amazes me. "There are many ways of getting paid. Helping people improve their lives or our environment is all the pay I need. It's the kind of pay that you can not bring to the bank but it's a happiness that money can never buy."
I first met Mr. Garner at one of the initial planning meetings for the community center. It was then that I saw that he had a mission. "There has to be a community place, person, teacher or somebody. There has to be an outlet for kids." We both wanted the same for the kids in the community. With Mr. Garner in the lead, the West End has gained a Basketball court and now a community center for everyone to enjoy. There are so many things I would like to say about Mr. Garner but I will not. I suggest you just get out there and meet him.Marlo - 32 yr.old
Biracial
Artist/Teacher
Miss Porter's School, Farmington CT
Mr. Garner, the children of South Whitney Street and my students at MPS are why I made this project possible.
During many interviews in which ALYC members were talking with their heroes, I experienced moments of incredible pride and happiness. The energy and conversation exchanged between ALYC member and hero was a moment never to be forgotten by either party. I am curious about what the future holds for these people.
Buena Suerte a La Gente
Mr. Darrell Garner
Other photos by Marlo
Floating
Chaz de agua
