September’s How Utah County LIVES UNITED
Teenagers aren’t always pictured as your typical community volunteers, however, the teens who worked at United Way of Utah County’s Summer of Service proved themselves as hard-working, volunteer-oriented individuals.
Many teens participated in United Way of Utah County’s youth-oriented service projects, but two particular individuals stood out as dedicated volunteers: 14-year-old Jonathon Cahoon and 16-year-old Kelsey Carlson.
These two individuals performed service almost every single week while involved with United Way of Utah County’s Summer of Service.
This was Cahoon’s second summer spent volunteering. He became involved last year when looking for ways to complete his Boy Scout merit badge.
“I got my merit badge last year, and I liked it so much I came back,” he said.
Carlson became involved when she saw a flier advertising the program. Carlson is working for the Presidential Service Award where youth get honored for completing more than 300 hours of service and knew this would be a great way to complete her hours.
Cahoon’s favorite service project was volunteering at Friday’s Kid Respite where volunteers played with special needs children.
“I really like playing with little kids and being around them,” he said. “We played duck, duck, goose and a couple of other games. The kids seemed to really enjoy it; they had fun.”
Carlson said her favorite activity was visiting the elderly at a senior center. She was able to spend time with a 105-year-old woman with whom she really bonded.
“I’ve never met anyone that old,” she said. She was so cool; she told me stories and was really with it.”
Carlson said she promised the woman she would come back and visit.
“The seniors were so much happier when we were there. It struck my heart,” Carlson said.
Both youth said they have learned a lot through service and would encourage others to get involved.
“Serving is really enjoyable,” said Cahoon. “It’s fun to see what you change for the better and what good you did.”
For Carlson, service has become addictive.
“It just makes you want to do more,” Carlson said. “Whenever we would serve people, their faces would light up. It was a very positive experience.”
Click here for pictures of this year’s Summer of Service activities.









