Soaking Up Summer, Creating Community at Backyard Barbecue

July 28, 2026

Our young people stay active and work hard through summer jobs, the Summer Career Institute, and our Summer Enrichment program. But we also make sure they have opportunities to enjoy the simple childhood pleasures of long summer days.

This July, young people at our boys home enjoyed music, grilled food, lawn games, a water slide, and Super Soakers as part of their annual summer barbecue. Our kitchen team provided classic barbecue fare, while coworkers from our residential programs brought side dishes to share. But the real main course was laughter and lasting memories.

As Boys Campus Program Director Keli Shllaku explained, the event was about bringing the Mercy Home family together for summer fun.

“All coworkers and youth participate, sharing a meal and playing games, like a regular family would do,” Shllaku said. “It’s important for us to create these community connections so the kids know they are surrounded by a village of folks who care about them like we do.”

Coworkers and youth coordinated dances on the lawn, while others headed to the outdoor basketball court. And on an afternoon that saw temperatures soaring into the 90s, the wild water battle that concluded the event was not only a delight, but also refreshing for those who braved the waves. More importantly, the spirited slipping and splashing encouraged healthy play and strengthened bonds among residents and coworkers alike.

“The water balloons and water slide brought out the inner child in both the youth and our coworkers,” said Young Adult Programs Director Joi Basley, who found herself drenched from head to toe.

“They created smiles, friendly competition, and memories that reminded us all of the joy found in simply having fun together.”

Special thanks to everyone who pitched in to set up and clean up, to our incredible kitchen team for preparing and serving the food, and to our generous donors who make happy summer memories like this possible for our young people.