Utah Commission on Volunteers Promotes Summer of Service

2009 SUMMER OF SERVICE: Utah Volunteers can earn national recognition and win lunch with Lieutenant Governor Gary Herbert

Salt Lake City – Utah’s annual Summer of Service has joined forces with President Obama’s national initiative, United We Serve, to recognize citizens who volunteer their time over the next few months to make a difference in their communities.

“Summer of Service is about giving back to our community and enriching the lives of others. I can’t think of a better season to inspire creative ways for youth and adults to use their free time to make a difference and earn national recognition while doing it,” says Shar Lewis, Executive Director of the Utah Commission of Volunteers.

Those who volunteer and track their service hours between June 22 and Sept. 11 can earn national recognition. Children ages 5 to 13 who volunteer 50 hours of service, and those 14 years and older who accrue 100 hours of service, can earn a Presidential Service Award signed by the President of the United States.

As an added incentive, the top youth and adult participants who accrue the most hours during this campaign will win a lunch with the Lieutenant Governor.

“Utah is renowned for its high rates of volunteerism, and it’s important we continue that proud tradition throughout the summer months,” said Utah Lt. Governor Gary R. Herbert. “I encourage all Utahns to spend just a little bit of free time this summer participating in a cause that can make a difference in the lives of others and their own lives, as well.”
For more information on the 2009 Summer of Service log onto www.volunteers.utah.gov and find volunteering opportunities that you and your family can get involved with during the summer months. Those who are currently volunteering may retroactively track and credit their hours from June 22.