My mentee struggled with school and came from a disadvantaged situation. She is a rather extreme case for the program - but she constantly showed improvement. I felt lucky to be a part of her life. - Jessica Brothers, Provo, UT

I have been in 4-H for 7 years. I have learned to be a better leader and collaborator. I have learned team working skills and develop relationships with other youth all over the state of Utah. 4-H has become a large part of my life. I teach Cloverbuds and help with fundraisers. I have been working on recruiting others to come to Teen Council and other events that we have. Calli Jordan 11th Grade I have been involved in 4-H for 6 years. In 4-H I am part of the Teen Council and also I am a Region Ambassador. In 4-H we have promoted healthy living and do leadership building activities that helps us to prepare for the future. 4-H has done a lot for me. It has helped me become a better leader and to be able to talk in front of people and to get over my fears. Also to help me prepare for job interviews and to show others what it means to be a leader. I have also helped with service projects. 4-H makes me want to be a better person and to excel in life. Before 4-H I never thought of going to college or wanting to do something bigger. I always thought it will just happens when it happens. 4-H has taught me to plan and that now is the time to prepare for the future. Daisey Allen 10th Grade

Mentoring taught me how a small influence, like one person being your friend, can dramatically enhance your attitude. Just keeping a positive attitude keeps those around you happy as well. It's important to think about what's best for yourself, but it can be much more fulfilling to find how to best serve another persons needs. - Jory Pepplaar, Glenwood, Utah

Getting to know each of the kids on a deeper more intellectual level, and getting to know each of them better and to understand them better. -Wednesday Hackwell, Salt Lake City, Utah

I have really enjoyed watching the kids improve and being exposed to my community's issues. - Andrea Funk, Ogden, Utah

What I valued most from serving at this site was the stories and experiences some residents shared with me about their life. They taught me things that I wouldn't have been able to understand for many years to come. Hearing their stories was something I truly value from serving at this site. - Joel Bruder, Sandy, Utah

I volunteered at the information desk. I helped people get around the hospital and delivered cards and flowers. I would occasionally push people in their wheelchairs up to their rooms. One time I watched a little girl because her mom was in a wheel chair and couldn't do it herself. I loved serving here because I was able to help in a small way but it made a huge impact. -Haylee Lanham, Sandy, Utah

The American Cancer Society has always given me meaningful experiences. They take into account what a volunteers experiences, abilities, and talents are, and utilize these assets to help the volunteer have an enjoyable time performing service. - Amy Tran, Salt Lake City, Utah

I've loved volunteering here. I've learned how to forget myself and care for others. When I volunteer I always leave with a smile and a happier outlook on life. - Heidi Robinson, Lindon, Utah

My volunteer activities included meeting and talking with veterans, organizing bingo nights at the VA hospital as well as with families who are staying at the Fisher House, but it expands beyond that as well. I've helped with the pillowcase project and have taught kids how to cope with a disaster and what to do in a fire or an earthquake. I met a woman named Lafonda at the VA nursing home, and she told me she liked the fact that when I rolled her wheelchair, I didn't treat her or talk to her like she was going to die any second. She was cute. -Alyson Kyle, Salt Lake City, Utah

Being a volunteer was not my label, but rather, just to be a friend; to be there for the kids. I was a role model in their lives. Art wasn't just the outcome it was about the expression. - Kaila Balch, Park City, Utah

"I loved that I got to build relationships with the people I visited. It was awesome. come with a positive attitude and serve with your whole heart and you will have a positive experience."

It's hard work at first because the patients can't hear or aren't able to do somethings, so you have to do a lot to help them; but, it is rewarding because you know you are depended on and that you are making a difference in a persons life because you are making their life easier. - Kristine Aramaki, Bountiful, Utah

Through Backyard Broadcast, I ran a station at my school and helped educate others about sex trafficking as we raised money for police officers to get the training they need to bust traffickers. Backyard Broadcast is currently working with the legislators to tighten laws on cases that involve minors engaged in commercial sex acts so that the victims of sex trafficking will not reoffend. I really enjoyed watching others realize how big of an issue sex trafficking is and helping them get involved with us as we were able to help the victims and future victims. -Allison Baxter, Salt Lake City, Utah

This was my first time volunteering at Bad Dog Arts and I instantly felt welcomed into the community. I have had a wonderful experience helping with classes and getting to know the kids. Throughout the two sessions, I've gotten to know individual kids and watched them grow not only as artists, but people as well. I definitely plan to continue my work with Bad Dog and I am looking forward to helping kids express their creativity and engagement in the artistic community. -Liza Badenhausen, Salt Lake City, Utah

I gained appreciation for the CNA's and loved getting to know the residents. - Lexi Redden, Draper, Utah

I am very close friends with some of the residents, and it's really nice. -Vanessa Shipley, Herriman, Utah

I appreciate the friends I made and how much the residents appreciated the time I gave them. -Tristin Hampshire, Layton, Utah

I appreciated the loving atmosphere of having fun and still helping everyone out. Everyone was so appreciative that I could be there and help out. Its a great way to serve and have fun and not feel like its a chore. - Rikki Robbins, St. George, Utah

Best Buddies is an organization that pairs a college student up with a person with special needs. You are required to talk to your best buddy once a week and do an activity twice a month. Its a blast! - Sarah Neilson, Sandy, Utah

I can truly say I made a difference in the life of one little girl. You form a wonderful relationship with your little instead of it being a constant stream of people coming and going. You form a lasting friendship with a child who really appreciates that you're taking the time to be with them and help them. - Caroline Coleman, Salt Lake City, Utah

I really like the relationship I have with my (little) I have been with her since last year and we have built a really great relationship. I am grateful to be apart of her life to see how she is progressing in school and growing as a person. Katy Tanner, St. George, Utah

I thought it was a great opportunity to have a little, I had so much fun being a part of a little girl's life. I was thankful to know that she had someone there for her despite the troubles in her life. - Jessica Kern, Park City, Utah

"I really enjoyed that I got to work with and meet lots of different people from different situations in life and gain a whole new perspective." -Belle Barlow

Boys and Girls Club really made me understand the word patience. With so many young kids being so energetic all at once you learn how to handle yourself. But best of all was that this site helped me learn to live more simply and not take what I have for granted. - Grayson Murphy, Roy, Utah

These kids are so excepting and loving! My first week at the club, many of the kids were already calling me their best friend and drew me pictures or gave me best friend charms. It is so rewarding to be a friend in their life. Haleigh Michel, Brigham City, Utah

I loved the way the kids are so accepting and the staff loves having me around. During activity everyday I get the chance to be one-on-one with a kindergartener and help him or her either color or play a game. I never have a bad day when I was there. -Mary Grace Gilstrap, Salt Lake City, Utah "It is amazing! Im trying to go every day possible. And the kids are just fantastic and so much fun to work with!" - Eric S., Midvale, UT

I love working at the Boys & Girls Club because you really get to know all of the kids that go there and you get to connect with them. It is so rewarding to go in to volunteer and have kids come up to you and give you a hug and ask you to play with them or help them with homework. - Marllory Leonard, Utah

The nurses let me help out with as much as I was able to do. It was a great environment to help in, and I plan to keep volunteering there. -Abbie Sugihara, Brigham City, Utah

Being a Hospice volunteer has been an extremely rewarding experience. I've loved getting to know the family I am assisting. It has brought new understanding to my own life and much needed help for not only the dying patient, but also their family. -Justin Lamb, Salt Lake City

Volunteering with Bristol Hospice was a lot of fun! Sometimes we would just hang out and it actually meant a lot to the patient to simply have someone there. -Nic Call, Mapleton, Utah

I think that my service site was meaningful because I was able to bring joy into the lives of the residents at Emerald Pointe. They didnt get to see very many people, so seeing a new face was good for them. I also was able to get used to seeing people that are different from me. - Julie Montoya, Cedar City, Utah

I loved my service site. There was a lot of face-to-face interaction. The campers always made me laugh. -Sarah Diener, Salt Lake City, Utah

I have always loved working with kids and this was a perfect opportunity. This experience has taught me to be patient and understanding of differences. - Elysha Davis, Salt Lake City, UT

“The services I received were very beneficial. They really helped me to make progress in my recovery time.” — Annette Siolden, Clearfield, Utah

This was a great experience that opened my eyes to the homeless needs at a local level. - Kristen Bushnell, Bountiful, Utah

I helped sell oranges to raise money for the Refugee Resettlement Program. I was left with a profound sense of satisfaction when I saw how many beds we could buy for these amazing families who have fled their countries to find a better life. - Lindsay Hadley, Midvale, Utah

I loved this site because it wasn't really hard work but you could tell that to the people who needed food it was the effort we made to help that made a difference. - Aubriana, Richfield, UT

The best part about this site was being able to create friendships with the students as well as watch their improvement. Each day I would work one-on-one with a special needs girl named Angie. We would work with language, math, physical activities, and science. - Brooke, St. George, UT

My experience here made me responsible and I gained a lot of leadership opportunities. I loved when I got to interact with the children while fundraising for the CJC. - Jenna Stone, Heber, UT

I have been able to meet a lot of people and see my influence touch the lives of people that do not know me personally. - Katie Yeates, Orem, Utah

I loved that the kids got to know me and got excited when I would come. I also loved that all the students got along, no matter if they had a disability. -Sophia Johnson, Salt Lake City, Utah

I volunteer in the food pantry which is the most rewarding job in my opinion. This position allows me to interact with the people by handing out meals and produce to those who truly need it. Brightening up some one's day with a simple can of soup makes all the difference! - Nicole Falten, Park City, Utah

I really enjoyed volunteering at this site. It was fun and fulfilling. - Erin Olson, Logan, UT

I loved hearing stories of their lives. They have taught me how to appreciate life for what it is and to always have a positive outlook on things. - Kim Gallegos, Salt Lake City, Utah

I loved that i had direct interaction with my community. I was able to talk to them and learn from their experiences that they shared with me. I was really able to connect with all these people and create a connection. -Alejandra Palomino, Salt Lake City, Utah

This has honestly been one of the most impactful things I have ever been able to do. I love the whole concept of the program. We go and meet with individuals with complex needs and ask them on how we can help. We then go back and figure how to meet those needs with the resources that we have. In my mind, it is a perfect civic engagement model for addressing complex social issues. We are not studying theory or previous models of alleviating homelessness, but creating together with our patients a working relationship that is changing peoples’ lives. – Derek Woodruff

The spirit never grows old. - Heidi Vernon, Tooele, Utah

I volunteered with the same students each time and got very close with so many of them. It was incredible to watch their progress. The program is fun and uplifting. I value how each volunteer truly cared about the student's progress and the horses well being. - Hailey Bojack, Draper, Utah

It taught me the reality of poverty. I saw single mothers come in with their kids and plead for help. Because of those experiences, I have been more grateful for the blessings I have been given and more mindful of helping others. - Robert Beck, Sandy, Utah

I liked being able to meet the patients, even if it was for a short time. I love being around people and talking to them. I also liked getting to know the kids my age I volunteered with. -Bailey Whitaker, Layton, Utah

As a volunteer I assisted with patient intake. I also helped the nurses with simple tasks such as taking patients to rooms, taking visitors to rooms, and delivering paperwork. I loved being able to lighten the staff's load. -Sydney Garcia, St. George, Utah

I was really touched by all of the compassionate volunteers. The medical field is challenging, but the doctors were really genuine and wanted to help. The clinic made a huge difference to these people because it provided something for people that they couldnt provide for themselves. I was amazed at how many people desperately need this kind of help. - Hayley Paul, St. George, Utah

I enjoyed bettering my peers and my community. -Phillip Hamel, Draper, Utah

I valued everything and appreciated everything at this main service site. I valued most watching the children learn and grow and get better at the tasks that they are struggling with. It is such a joy to see this. -Haley Brock, Salt Lake City, Utah

Many of the patients didn't have a lot of family to visit them. I am glad I could be there. You could tell they enjoyed having you to talk to. -Ellie Mickelson, American Fork, Utah

The thing I most valued about my volunteer experience at Elk Meadows Assisted Living was putting others above myself. -Autumn Tuttle, Oakley, Utah

I absolutely loved volunteering at the English Language Center because I feel like I am genuinely making a difference in their lives. I have grown to love and respect people of all nationalities. They have taught me so much about sacrifice, trials, gratitude, and the importance of having a good attitude. I have enjoyed hearing stories about their past experiences, families, and perspective on life. I have made so many friends! Aimee Matheson, Logan, Utah

What a great victory and joy the past 21 months have been for me as an eslc volunteer english teacher. My heart is full of gratitude for the opportunity the eslc has provided me: to learn, to teach, to grow as a person and a teacher, and to build relationships with such wonderful people - both at the ESLC and with my students! I couldn't have asked for a better class. I have loved this experience and honored this work. I will always remember my time with the ESLC and the life changing and enhancing experience it has been...It was heartwarming to feel their love and feel that I've made a difference in their lives. They certainly have made a difference in mine. -Christine Petersen, Salt Lake City, Utah

My favorite part of volunteer was hearing the residents' awesome stories! -Savannah Van Orden, Morgan, Utah

I loved working with the therapist and assistants . They were very helpful. I loved going and being able to learn and see people progress. -Bailee Ashton, Heber, Utah

I appreciated the veterans the most at this site. They were such a great and deserving population to work with. I have never met people that were so kind and full of gratitude for whatever service anyone provided for them, no matter how small or big. - Theresa Pham, Salt Lake City, Utah

"It's really humbling to work with these kids. It's amazing to help out Down syndrome kids with activities and help teach them " -Caleb Kamalu, Kaysville, Utah

Volunteering with the Girl Scouts of Utah is both fun and empowering and has reminded me of the importance of friendship and goals. I have loved watching my troop girls grow and learn and have also had a blast with the games, crafts, and activities. I promise any volunteer would have a wonderful time in this organization! - Jenessa Halliday, Salt Lake City, Utah

After serving at this site I really became fonder of little kids and how truly smart they are in every aspect. Inspiring these young girls made me feel so helpful and like I was making a difference in their lives. Even if I just sat down with one of them that day to talk about what has been going on in their lives, I felt like I was making a difference. - Madison Jaret, Park City, Utah

“I was grateful for the opportunity I had to help Globus in their efforts to provide medical equipment to those in need. I find the cause so important and gracious. Globus Relief is a great place to earn plenty of service hours.” - Dallas Carter, Salt Lake City, Utah

I appreciated all the wise advice, stories, and love. I wouldn't trade this experience for anything. I've grown to love the people I've been serving and they have taught me so much. - Kim Tran, Salt Lake City, Utah

The students who come to Granite Peaks are often refugees or immigrants who have come to this country to gain a better life. They are hoping to further their knowledge and abilities; they are hard-working and dedicated, and I am amazed by their willingness and determination to learn. I now understand the difference giving time can make, and working with such amazing, diverse people was a valuable experience because it gave me understanding and perspective that I had never even considered before. - Claire Scheffler, Sandy, Utah

After working at Guadalupe School for about five months, I was so amazed and proud to see the progress that the children had made who I had been tutoring. It was also great to see their excitement about learning burgeon. - Hannah Barkey, Salt Lake City, Utah

I enjoyed working with people and realizing that you don't need to have the nicest of everything to be happy. -Fischer Olpin, Park City, Utah

As a volunteer under the recreational therapy division I had the opportunity to spend a lot of time with the residents. Most the patients are in a considerable amount of pain and recreational therapy allows for them to shift their focus towards something else. I was able to help the residents feel a little more comfortable. -Ashley Peterson, Ogden, Utah

Volunteering at Heber Valley Medical Center gave me the chance to get to know my community better. There was a lot to do so I was always put to work. The staff is very organized and helpful! -Lily Manning, Heber, Utah

It was very rewarding when you could tell the patients really appreciated having me there listening to them. They had great stories and it was a great experience. - Silvana Bishop, Salt Lake City, UT

I absolutely Loved the people. I got to meet and hear some amazing stories from some very amazing people. That sounds cliché but honestly it was a humbling experience working with those who were still so positive after going through so much. Grant Bakker, Salt Lake City, Utah

It was great to work with the people at the center. They are going through hard times and it was nice to make them happy every time I was there. - Michael Fuchs, Salt Lake City, UT

Just talking and playing with the residents brightened my day and they enjoyed seeing new faces. I learned that everyone is an individual no matter what age they are. - Brittany Phillips, Hurricane, Utah

The people I worked with here really believe in equality and aren't afraid to stand up for what they believe in. I was able to help by organizing workshops, volunteering with kids, making people think about their perspectives of one another, and preparing and staffing at camps. - Victoria, Salt Lake City, Utah

The thing I most valued about this service site was that I was able to spend time one on one with a patient and develop a relationship with them. I felt like I was a friend and positive influence in their life. -Dallas Carter, Odgen, Utah

I loved knowing that I was actually helping people at IMC. Often times visitors would come in crying, looking for a loved one that got in an accident, and I was able to help them locate their loved one and console them. - Stephen Buma, Murray, UT

The after school program is awesome. I learned so much as a volunteer. The refugee youth probably teach me more than I teach them. Their families are so welcoming; the treat me like family and I was able to learn about their culture. - Ruthie Arevalo, Salt Lake City, UT

Realizing how many people need help with basic needs like groceries was impactful for me as a volunteer. I liked feeling like I was helpful by helping people get food that was available. -Madison Harris, Parowan, Utah Apply: https://www.careandshare-ut.org/volunteer-faq/volunteer-application/

On my first day at Jordan Valley School, I helped give a girl a motorized wheelchair. She had never moved independently in her life. She squealed with delight as she could move her head and chase one of her therapists around the room. I am so happy I was part of that moment. - Cydney Klc, Murray, UT

“I look forward to teaching JA each year! The JA activities are engaging and allow me to bring my world into the classroom.” — Junior Achievement Volunteer

I really liked helping clients find an outfit they loved. It made it all worth it. -Joy Bergstrom, Salt Lake City, Utah

I liked that I was able to see kids who had made mistakes fix them and turn their life around so they would have a better future. -Kelsie Kinikini, Kaysville, Utah

I really enjoyed getting to know the kids and having them remember me each time I came back. Also, in the step family class I loved hearing the troubles the kids were having and talking to them about them and helping them cope with their step family situations. -Dasha Trakhimets, Orem, Utah

"I loved working with these kids! I looked forward each week to the afternoon I got to spend with them. They also liked having someone younger like me helping to coach them one on one in basic keyboard skills. It was so fun to get to know them - they are awesome kids!" -Bryn LeBaron, Salt Lake City, Utah

I enjoyed getting to meet such a wide array of people and creating relationships through something as simple as breakfast – everyone has experience and lessons we can learn from. -Maria Garcia, Ogden, Utah

I tutored 4th graders at Midvalley Elementary with Latino's in Action. I was able to go 2-3 times a week during the school day so I actually got to tutor the kids during their actual class. It was very rewarding helping the students with reading or math. - Maria, Cedar Hills, UT

I enjoyed helping all the patients. I delivered gifts and flowers to the patients. I helped in the gift shop and front desk. I helped people find where they needed to go. -Nicole Andrade, Salt Lake City, Utah

I loved playing with the children and getting to know them and their stories personally. - Alexandra Allen, Springville, Utah

"I loved the kids and it was really interesting hearing their stories! They are such happy kids and it's so fun to be around them." -Addy Gesteland, Salt Lake City, Utah

I got the experience of helping the elderly. Listening to their stories and learning about their families and childhood was amazing. I don't think I'll ever forget the bond I built with the residents. - Tanaya Moss, South Jordan, Utah

“I enjoy being with the seniors at the Liberty Center and making their day better by participating in games and socializing with them.” -Stephanie Buckner, Salt Lake City, Utah

I loved the people. Mentally handicapped people are some of the nicest people you'll ever meet in your life and I couldn't have asked for better people to serve. - Alexis, Ogden, UT

My experience with Maji has been incredible. Not only is Maji working for the greater good on a global scale, but we're also concerned and involved with local matters. I've had the opportunity to meet the most selfless people that are in search of making the world "Altogether United". - Blair Bowen, Salt Lake City, UT

I really liked serving at the Maliheh Free Clinic because I felt like I was helping the community because they provide health care to people who wouldn't be able to be treated otherwise. All the doctors and workers at the clinic are there because they want to he helping other and its amazing to see what they are doing and be a part of it. - Lily Robb, Salt Lake City, Utah

This site helped me to appreciate my health and everything that I have especially when I feel like I don't have everything I want. This was the best experience I could have had! -Shaelyn Wheeler, Pleasant View, Utah

I really valued the relationships I made with the residents. -Kelsey Trudeau, Ogden, Utah

"Mundi Project has been a tremendous experience for Daniel. Not only was he able to improve his piano performing skills through various stages, but also the community spirit and the dedication to serve others were deeply ingrained into his music career, which has made him a better musician as well as a better human being." Baodong Liu, father of Daniel Liu, Mundi Ambassador 2014-15

“I loved interviewing such resilient and happy students! They show how to go through hard experiences and still have a grateful and happy life. Just being around them has brought more happiness into my life.”

At the National Ability Center I taught swim and ski lessons to children and people with cognitive disabilities. Most of the volunteer work I did was very hands on. I would have to hold some of the children in the water to support them while swimming and I would also help them perform certain strokes. I value the relationships I formed with the students I taught. The students taught me a lot about certain disabilities and how easy it is to make friends and be nice to others. - Tess Holbrook, Park City, Utah

“This program really helped me grow in a fun and educational way. I wish I could've spent more hours there.” – Erandi Alvarez

I really appreciated how hard the teachers work and also the administration. I truly loved the experience and the people at the Neighborhood House. - Sally Tran, Salt Lake City, UT

I enjoyed the personal interaction with the patients and learning about how this kind of specialized physical therapy works. It put into perspective how much I take for granted on a daily basis. -Jacob Draper, Sandy, Utah

I was able to help organize all of the clothing donations and spent a lot of time sewing quilts for those who stay there. It was really cool to know that I was helping even just a little bit with all the amazing things this place does. I know that someone someday will really appreciate a blanket being given to them. - Cheyenne, Richfield, UT

I started volunteering at Furburbia three years ago. I had always loved animals and was new to Park City and looking to get out of my house and meet some new people (and dogs!). Three years, hundreds of shifts, dozens of friendships, one adopted pit bull, and countless dogs walked and cats petted, and I can honestly say volunteering with FOAU was one of the best decisions of my life. The people, staff and volunteers alike, are absolutely wonderful and want nothing more than to help find forever homes for the dogs and cats that come through every year. If you’re thinking about volunteering, I cannot recommend it enough. Come walk a dog, fold some laundry, socialize a timid cat, clean a kennel, hug a puppy. Friends of Animals needs you, and even though you may not realize it yet, you may just need Friends of Animals Utah. - Lauren Cooley, Park City, Utah

The Ogden Nature Center is a fun place to volunteer at because it's beautiful year round and the people are friendly. -Lorna Gehrig, Ogden, Utah

Volunteering at Ogden Regional allowed me to see how much healthcare professionals care about their patients. The interaction between the staff and the clients impressed me a lot in terms of how the healing process isn't just about pushing pills, but it is a holistic healing process that isn't always easy. I felt like I learned a lot and really made a difference at the hospital. - Alex Holt, Ogden Utah

Watching the kids work together to create a product or cheer each other on in a competition was by far the best part of working at this site. I enjoyed being able to teach my skills to a younger crowd and learn communication skills with students and teachers at Pacific Heritage Academy. -Martel DenHartog, Salt Lake City, Utah

I loved serving at PKMC because while I don't always see the same patients every time I volunteer, I do feel like I have made strong connections with the staff at PKMC. Additionally, I feel like my people skills have increased immensely. -Caity Kwun, Park City, Utah

The professional I worked with provided a very supportive way to look at the reality of the situation that women were being abused and had nowhere to go. I learned a lot from them. They were all professional and sensitive at the same time, two very difficult qualities to balance. - Melissa Zamarin, Park City, UT

This was such a great place to volunteer. They are very flexible with hours for students. The staff was very nice, friendly, and helped me know what I needed to do. Every time I was there they would thank me. It was a rewarding experience. - Megan Smith, West Valley City, UT

If I were to be asked the biggest positive change in our school this year, I would respond by saying Playworks. Students who were formerly causing trouble have turned into leaders. The faculty has been able to concentrate more on the curriculum rather than fixing the issues. The classrooms have become more peaceful and a safer learning environment. - Sally Sansom Principal, East Midvale Elementary

I liked that I was able to get insight into the hospital environment since I've been interested in a career in medicine. I also liked getting to personally interact with the kids I was serving so I could really see the difference I was making. - Becca Bonham, Holladay, Utah

I loved working at the Provo Library, and learned so much from my experience! I felt that working at a library gave me a different experience than other service sites would have. I learned how a library works, and helped educate children and show them that reading and learning can be fun, and isn't always school work.- Mia Felin, Orem, Utah

Throughout my time at Real Life, I loved creating bonds with the teens that attended my site. I helped the teens with any questions they had on homework, as well as helped to plan and carry out lessons on things like nutrition, time management, or banking. It was so awesome to see the teens light up when they understood something on their homework that I had been helping them with for weeks. - Alice Barnett, Salt Lake City, Utah

I have never left River Meadows feeling stressed or sad about anything, ever. While I was there, I was able to completely forget about all my other obligations and devote all of my attention to people who needed it. Sydnee Lefler, Draper, Utah

I enjoyed working with the Hospitality Desk manager. She was a very fun and sweet person that made the time there enjoyable. She would also give me fun art projects to do for the upcoming holidays, like making paper flowers to hang up for decorations for Easter. I got to see and meet a lot of families and hearing their stories and how they are persevering onward. I learned that a smile can go a long way. - Tasia Wu, Salt Lake City, Utah

These women are going through hard times. Each person needs help and in the end they are very greatful for the help they recieve. - Jordan Parkinson, Kaysville, Utah

As a volunteer I enjoyed fixing bikes that will be donated to kids from low income families. -Charissa Boniface, Salt Lake City, Utah

Being able to serve others and helping veterans and their families was the best part of volunteering here. -Nick Bowne, Salt Lake City, Utah

Aging Services is a great volunteer site. The staff spends a lot of time and energy in keeping volunteers informed. I love spending time with my companion, especially knowing that I am making a difference in her life. - Ashley Pederson, Salt Lake City, UT

"I personally enjoyed watching the youth work towards graduating the program. Many troubled youth were able to make small changes in their lives that allowed them to reconnect with themselves, their family, and their community." // "I got to help the community and have an impact on my peers!" // "The best part about Peer Court was watching my mentees graduate. Both of them graduated at the last day of Peer Court, so it was nice to see our efforts come to fruition in the end."

I love helping people and feeling like I'm a valuable part of the hospital. I am going to continue to volunteer even after I have traveled to Kenya because i enjoy it so much. This is a great place to volunteer! - Madeline Rencher, Salt Lake City, Utah

I loved helping the kids with their physical sessions! It was interesting to see what exercises helped them. They are such sweet kids and it was awesome watching them recover. -Rhea Walters, Sandy, Utah

I most valued being able to watch my mentees grow. I was truly changing their lives and helping them. Typically youth take the easy way by electing to go through the juvenile justice system. With that being said, I appreciated the opportunity I had to assist them in becoming better people. -Brianna Bernstein, Sandy, Utah

I loved that when I walked in, I was immediately welcomed. I felt like the residents genuinely liked having me there. -Lily Hawkins, Salt Lake City, Utah

This was one of the most incredible opportunities opened up to me. The most rewarding feeling I have experienced was witnessing a patient walk for the first time on a prosthesis we had been working for the last several weeks. The staff has taught me very well and has grown to trust me with more difficult tasks. I have loved having the ability to work alongside amazing doctors and get hands-on experience in the prosthetic and orthotic department. I have had more exposure to this field than many students, and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity. I plan on continuing my volunteer work with the hospital, and it will be the service site I dedicate myself to for the next several years. -Isabell Vasquez-Echols, Salt Lake City, Utah

One thing that I enjoy about life in general is when everybody is able to get along no matter what ones background is. The Sorenson Multicultural center is inviting to all cul- tures and all backgrounds. I loved being in an environment that was accepting of people from all backgrounds. - Trevor Williams, South Jordan, Utah

South Davis Community Hospital assists people who are unable to do things for themselves. The majority of the patients at the South Davis Community Hospital stay there for a very long period of time. As volunteers we assist their needs and make sure they are getting better. I will never forget the relationships I made with all of the individual patients at the South Davis Community Hospital. - Ally Weber, Bountiful, Utah

I taught computer classes and enjoyed seeing people and help themselves -Jaime Nielsen, Provo, Utah

I though that the positive atmosphere made a big difference in my experience. I also felt like they really appreciated and relied upon me. - Katie Hansen, Sandy, Utah

I've been involved with Special Olympics for five years and it has been an amazing experience. Ive learned a lot and I have developed many lifelong friendships. It has helped me gain a love and appreciation for service. - Shelly Thompson, Salt Lake City, Utah

I would recommend serving at this site if you love to teach kids with special needs. There are many wonderful opportunities to tutor and help the kids you're working with. My most valuable time I spent volunteering was with the kids sharing their experiences and stories dealing with their own autism The teachers are very wonderful and really care about the kids they teach and will work with you. - Austen Snow, Fruit Heights, Utah

Being able to see how humble and nice the people who were receiving the food actually are. It warms my heart to know that their are people that nice in the world. - Chasik Cook, Riverton, Utah

I began to value hard work the most. I was working hard to donate bags upon bags of donations and I got to watch the residents work hard and eventually be rewarded with a job or a new house or car. That was the most satisfying part, especially if it was one of the resident families who got to move out to their own apartment or house. It helped me realize that with hard work, anything can happen. - Olivia Andrus, Ogden, Utah

"I like feeling like I'm helping others when I restock the food pantry. It's crazy busy for 2 hours while we unload food, break down boxes, and stock the shelves. But it's 2 hours well spent!" Max O, Sandy, Utah

I enjoyed seeing all the people that have lived many more years than I have, and listening to their amazing stories. - Fatima Mahamat, Salt Lake City, Utah

I learned how to manage a store and help customers all while helping those who are really in need. I was able to gain service experience as well as work experience. I definitely learned a lot! - Gina Kopcrak, Park City, UT

I get to help out and work in a hands-on, creative environment. Also, I enjoy the work outdoors. -Natalie Gibson, Providence, Utah

The thing that I loved most was how involved all of the leaders were, they knew every child by name and made an effort to ask them how their day had been and compliment them on something. This helped to teach me how to give the children positive attention and make sure that they felt special. - Maia Sepulveda, Salt Lake City, Utah

I have really learned to appreciate the people who live at Sunrise. I have had the opportunity to get to know them and I feel like I now have 10 new grandmas and grandpas. Everyone here is so nice and appreciates every little thing you do. -Jenele Vander Veur, Midvale, Utah

I really came to appreciate the older generation. They taught me so much, just by listening to their life history. This site is a great place to meet so many new people and make lasting friendships. The residents will teach you so much by their love for life. - Sophie Rex, Logan, Utah

Its nice to help with the upkeep of Survivor Wellness. I enjoyed my time there and made some great friends. - Heather Meyer, Provo, Utah

Tabitha's Way is such an amazing place to volunteer. It's awesome to help people who need it and at Tabitha's I can really get involved with our community. Luca Rodriguez, Spanish Fork, Utah

I really appreciated getting to spend one-on-one time with the students. I got to know my kids really well and I honestly feel like I made a difference with them. At the end of the year ceremony, all the kids told each tutor how much they appreciated the opportunity we had given them, that made it all worth it for all of us. - Hannah Al-Mugbel, Salt Lake City, Utah

I really appreciated getting to spend one-on-one time with the students. I got to know my kids really well and I honestly feel like I made a difference with them. At the end of the year ceremony, all the kids told each tutor how much they appreciated the opportunity we had given them, that made it all worth it for all of us. - Hannah Al-Mugbel, Salt Lake City, Utah

The people were incredible. Listening to their life stories was one of the most rewarding things I've ever experienced. -Hallie Wilkinson, Heber, Utah

I love the burrito project! It is such an awesome way to do some really hands on service. You meet great people that volunteer with The Burrito Project SLC, but you also get to interact and meet some great people while handing out the burritos. Such a fun service opportunity! - Rebekah Meads, Salt Lake City, Utah

I first started just working in child care twice a week. It was so much fun to just play with the kids.Then I moved on to working in therapeutic preschool and I felt as if I had advanced in a level at the center. I work in a preschool class of ten boys with two teachers and it's always pretty intense, exciting and especially gratifying. - Janey Lyon, Salt Lake City, Utah

I learned to really appreciate the life that I had been given and the opportunities that I have been able to have because I was not in a circumstance that I had to go to a foster home. I would tell other students looking at this site that they will fall in love with the kids. I loved playing with them and getting to know them a little bit better. -Ashley Roylance, Ogden, Utah

As a volunteer, I felt like my help was needed and valued. I made a difference in the children's lives. -Alexis Alvey, Salt Lake City, Utah

"The Family Place staff is welcoming, competent, and generous. The services they offer are abundant and the children that come are able to participate in a variety of fun and interactive activities. I had a great experience volunteering and heading a service project for The Family Place." -Alex Richens, Logan, Utah

I value this experience of volunteering there because I got to learn about different life laws from them. In the building there is a group of Elderly Women and they are a spunky crew. These ladies have taught me to always help someone out, because chances are they have it worse than you. This group always has each others back, they are always trying to help each other grow and "Get the best out of the life we have left". Not only have those residents inspired me, but others have too. Each resident has a different story, some of their stories are rocky and others are smooth. But yet each of them puts on a smile and just takes one step at a time really and truly enjoys the time they have left. Its inspiring to see them continue on after such hard lives. It has inspired me to live in the moment and to serve because you want to, not because you have to. -Samantha Turpin, Ogden, Utah

I learned how truly lucky I am to be self-sufficient. The families living at the Road Home depended upon others to provide food for them and I was happy to help give that service. I really enjoyed serving at The Road Home and I plan to continue doing so. - Madelyn Mortensen, Salt Lake City, Utah

"When I volunteered, I walked through and showed the homeless what they could take. I learned their is a lot more people in need then I ever realized. I am more grateful for what I own." -Kaleb CJ Gurr, Odgen, Utah

I really enjoyed my site because I was able to learn a lot from the Seniors. They were all so wise and had great words of advice for me. I loved listening to their stories and they had such interesting lives. I really enjoyed it because my 98 year old great-grandmother lived here so I got to spend a lot of much needed time with her. - McKenna Petty, Orem, Utah