The new Riverside Courtyard at the House of the Good Shepherd Retirement Community in Hackettstown will surely showcase what The House is all about: living in a beautiful setting along the Musconetcong River and surrounded by the scenic pleasures of Stephens State Park.

A ground-breaking ceremony for the courtyard was held last week with town officials, members of the board of trustees, and others on hand to mark the occasion by putting shovels in the ground. The courtyard, which is expected to be completed by the end of the fall, will provide a gathering place outdoors for activities and social events for residents and visitors. It overlooks the Musconetcong River and Stephens State Park.

“It’s going to be a wonderful space to be among friends and visitors, or for those who prefer, a great place to just read a book,” said Deborah Beards, CEO of The House. “The courtyard accentuates the picturesque setting we have here.”

An enduring aspect of the new courtyard is also the opportunity for family and friends of The House to honor their loved ones, in perpetuity, with an engraved memorial stone. For those interested, this can be done through a one-time appropriate donation to the Annual Appeal, by becoming a part of the Shepherd’s Society, or by simply purchasing an engraved stone in honor, or memory, of a loved one.

“When completed, this beautiful courtyard will become a ‘breath of fresh air’ for all those who choose to call ‘The House’ their home, now and forever,” said Dave Woods, Director of Development at The House.