Members of the Oak Knoll Parents’ Association gathered on Thursday, October 17, 2024, to beautify the lawn in the center circle of the Vito Gallo Senior building in downtown Summit. 

This is the second year that parents have convened at this senior center for service work, and it is one of many opportunities Oak Knoll parents have to collaborate, socialize, and share their faith throughout the year. 

Under the leadership of Cristina Adragna and Sarah Fitzsimmons, who serve as Oak Knoll Parents’ Association Service Coordinators, our dedicated parents/guardians donated funds and volunteered their time and effort, along with the generosity and collaboration from Roberto’s Landscaping Service.

“Our goal was to create a welcoming environment for the residents and to uplift their spirits by creatively transforming the space,” said Adragna. “This project was our way of showing support for our community, and we’re proud to have made a positive difference in their lives. Seeing the joy this project brings to the residents is incredibly rewarding. Giving back meaningfully is an honor for all of us.”

The Parents’ Association hopes to make this an annual tradition for Oak Knoll. Following a school-wide collection of donations and purchases from Morris County Farms, Angela McQueen, Lillian Chern, Edward Coda, Jennifer Wells-Roth, Kelly Greeves, Candice Norris, and Andrea Sarok joined Adragna and Fitzsimmons for several hours that morning cleaning up, planting, and decorating the garden with mum‘s cabbage, pumpkins, hay, and lights. 

“I want to express our sincere gratitude to Oak Knoll parents for the beautiful plantings at the senior building,” said Jacqueline L. Gray, Executive Director of the Summit Housing Authority. “The effort and care put into this project truly shine through and has made such a positive impact by creating a more vibrant and welcoming environment. It looks amazing and will bring joy to the residents and everyone passing by. Thank you for spreading such warmth and cheer in our community!”