Fr. Val J. Peter, a Nebraska native, is the Executive Director Emeritus of Girls and Boys Town, the original Father Flanagan’s Boys’ Home. He became the fourth Executive Director on June 15, 1985.
Fr. Peter stresses, “the most important thing we can do here at Girls and Boys Town is not only to heal the wounds, but to make these children whole again – so they can become a strong, positive force to touch other lives.” Through these programs, which include homes, schools, and vocational career centers, Girls and Boys Town directly cares for thousands of boys and girls each year. These programs were initiated to make Fr. Flanagan’s dream of changing the way America cares for her children and families a reality.
Fr. Peter’s service also extends beyond the boundaries of Girls and Boys Town. He is on the boards or committees of more than 20 national and local organizations and has published numerous books, as well as popular and scholarly articles.
Fr. Peter holds doctorate degrees in both Canon Law and Theology. His service to children as a youth advocate, educator, and friend has spanned more than four decades.