Letter from the McGrath Family to the South Boston Community

To Our South Boston Community,

It is hard to believe that this original picture is still here, looking as good as the day we hung it. In the last three years, our community has walked past Colin; left him messages, rocks, toys, flowers, rosaries, high fives, quick prayers, and love. Andrea Winters has faithfully decorated this picture without ever being asked, or ever asking for credit. The community at Monsignor Powers has tended to him. With these small and large acts of kindness, we have felt lifted up by our community.

Colin’s Joy Project play spaces are in the works, and with each project we get a glimpse into how Colin’s legacy can live on, and new ways our community can come together – the Medal of Honor playground addition and Marine Park playground will break ground this year, along with South Boston Catholic Academy’s new early childhood play area. Additionally, we will see the space behind this sign transform to Colin’s Courtyard – a community courtyard where residents of all ages can relax, read, play, and connect in a peaceful space.

Thanks to the generosity of so many, we have donated over $250,000 as of July 2021 to our six local community partners – all non-profit organizations focused on supporting children and family programming. With each program we sponsor, we feel Colin’s joy being shared with others.

We recently saw a passage about how death is not the opposite of life. That life continues long after we are gone, if those we leave behind choose to remember us. We are so grateful to live in the South Boston community that not only chooses to remember Colin, but never forgets to hold us up as well. Thank you for helping us keep Colin alive in our hearts and for helping us find joy despite our grief.

With gratitude,
The McGrath Family