New Mural Inspires Youth at Grantsville Town Park

By Shannon Sexton, Program Coordinator

A new interactive mural at Grantsville Town Park is bringing color, hope, and community pride to Garrett County. Funded by the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) through the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) and SAMHSA, the project promotes drug-free living by engaging youth in a creative, hands-on experience that builds connection and purpose.

The mural, coordinated by Shannon Sexton of the Garrett County Health Department’s Health Education and Outreach Unit, features the inspiring message “Rooted in Strength, Growing in Purpose.” Visitors are invited to stand before a vibrant tree or appear seated on a swing, becoming part of the artwork and its message of resilience.

Construction and artistry were a true team effort, made possible through the generous donation of time and talent from community volunteers. Rodney Thomas and Krista Grater built the structure, while Tiffany Holtschneider brought the mural to life with her artwork. Youth helper, Mason Harvey played a key role in the daily logistics and maintenance, ensuring the project’s success from start to finish.

The handprints adorning the mural came from students enrolled in the Partners After School Programs in Oakland and Grantsville, symbolizing the unity and creativity of local youth. By involving young people in every stage of the project, the initiative gave them a safe, meaningful way to contribute to their community, helping build protective factors that research shows can reduce the risk of substance use.

The Garrett County Health Department extends its sincere thanks to the Town of Grantsville and Mayor Emily Newman-Edwards for graciously housing the mural. Its placement at the main entrance near the concession stands could not be more fitting, as Grantsville has proudly been named Grantsville Arts & Entertainment District.

A plaque accompanies the mural so visitors can understand how the interactive features work. 

This mural now stands as a beacon of hope, a daily reminder that when a community works together, its roots grow stronger, and its youth grow with purpose.

Cutline:
Pictured from left to right are Shannon Sexton (Garrett County Health Department), Mason Harvey, Partners After School participants, Krista Grater, Tiffany Holtschneider, and Rodney Thomas.

###

Photo Gallery (Click to Enlarge)