On March 19, 2015, Samantha Olsen of Ephraim, Utah, was honored with the UServeUtah Power of Service Award for her exceptional volunteer work. The award was presented during the Utah Commission on Service and Volunteerism’s bi-monthly meeting by Lt. Governor Spencer Cox, UServeUtah Commission Chair Chris Bray, and UServeUtah Director LaDawn Stoddard.
As a senior at Manti High School, Samantha has demonstrated outstanding commitment to her community. She has actively participated in science fairs, science olympiads, band, show choir, the tennis team, and various school clubs. Her most remarkable accomplishment, however, has been her dedication to serving individuals with special needs.
Samantha helped her brother expand a 4-H club for kids with special needs, growing its membership to 28 participants. She eventually became the leader of the club and spearheaded the creation of the “Fun on the Farm” exhibit, a hands-on agricultural display visited by over 2,500 people annually at the county fair. Samantha personally donated 176 volunteer hours to this project.
Beyond the county fair, she has worked tirelessly to increase 4-H membership by organizing and teaching 23 educational workshops on topics such as music, science, entomology, puppetry, and gardening. These workshops have impacted more than 1,400 people in her community.
“Samantha Olsen’s accomplishments are truly impressive,” said LaDawn Stoddard, UServeUtah Director. “Studies show when people begin volunteering at a young age, they continue to do so throughout their lives. Samantha embodies the spirit of volunteerism, and we are honored to present her with the Power of Service Award.”
Samantha’s passion for helping others and her commitment to service make her an inspiration and a valuable asset to her community.