For more than three decades, Richard Berrett dedicated his career to serving the federal government. When he retired, he could have chosen to slow down. Instead, he found another way to serve.
In recognition of his extraordinary commitment to helping others, Richard was honored with the 2024 Lieutenant Governor’s Power of Service Award, presented by UServeUtah and Lt. Governor Deidre Henderson.
Since 2015, the Utah Commission on Service and Volunteerism has presented the Power of Service Award to a volunteer who demonstrates an exceptional commitment to the well-being of the people and communities they serve. Richard’s 17 years of consistent, compassionate volunteer service exemplify that commitment.
A lifelong Utahn, Richard grew up in the North Ogden area, where he continues to live today. As the youngest of five siblings, he developed an early appreciation for family and the importance of supporting others. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in sociology with a minor in psychology from Weber State University, preparing him to better understand and connect with people from all walks of life.
After retiring following a 31-year career with the federal government, Richard began volunteering with the YCC Women’s Shelter and Hospice and Homecare, a department of Intermountain Healthcare. For 14 years, he volunteered with both organizations simultaneously.
His service with Hospice and Homecare has been especially remarkable. Richard has volunteered as many as four hours a day, five days a week, visiting patients in their homes. For patients and families navigating some of the most difficult moments of their lives, Richard’s steady presence has provided companionship, comfort and peace of mind.
His visits have also offered caregivers an opportunity to step away and take a much-needed break, knowing their loved ones were in caring hands. For patients, Richard’s presence has meant having someone there to listen, talk and simply share the day with them. His service has helped patients experience greater comfort and dignity during the final chapters of their lives.
At the YCC Women’s Shelter, Richard has supported women and children fleeing domestic violence, providing another form of compassionate service to people facing difficult circumstances.
Across both organizations, Richard has touched countless lives through a simple but powerful commitment to helping others. He describes his approach to service humbly, saying he is “just doing for others what they cannot do for themselves.”
That spirit of humility is at the heart of Richard’s service. His commitment has not been about recognition. It has been about showing up, offering a helping hand and making sure people do not have to face difficult moments alone.
UServeUtah is proud to recognize Richard Berrett with the 2024 Power of Service Award and to celebrate the lasting impact of his 17 years of volunteer service. His example reminds us that service does not always happen in the spotlight. Sometimes, it looks like showing up day after day, sitting beside someone who needs company, giving a caregiver time to breathe or offering comfort when it matters most.
Through his quiet and consistent dedication, Richard has made Utah a stronger and more caring community.
Published November 30, 2024