In a community with such a generous spirit and values steeped in volunteerism, it’s no surprise that there are quite a few privately-operated community organizations and nonprofits in Utah County. We wanted to carve out a space to talk about the these organizations that improve the quality of life for county residents.
When it comes to social services, community resources, and family support systems, there’s not always a bright line between the private and public sectors. Funding for many nonprofits come from multiple sources, including governmental agencies. In turn, many community organizations coordinate with and offer support to city, county, and state agencies. This collaboration between the public and private sector consistently proves to make a greater positive impact that these organizations can achieve on their own.
If you know of a worthy organization that isn’t already included on this list, please tell us about it. We admit this is far from a comprehensive list, and we’re always looking to add to it. Here are some of the Utah County community organizations we know about and wanted to feature.
United Way works to improve lives by starting neighborhood programs. Engaged in nearly 1,800 communities across more than 40 countries, they create community-led solutions to strengthen the cornerstones for a good quality of life: education, financial stability, and health. United Way of Utah County has partnered with organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity, and the Alpine House to create sustainable solutions to local issues.
Community Action Services and Food Bank
This non-profit organization provides a two-step process to solving poverty. First, they work to stabilize an individual; then, they help to rebuild their life. The organization meets the person’s basic critical needs, such as food and housing, then provides them with long-term solutions to rebuild financial and social self-sufficiency. They work to foster self-reliance in individuals, families, and communities.
Habitat for Humanity of Utah County
Habitat for Humanity is working to create sustainable and widespread housing for impoverished individuals, families, and communities. Since 1991, Habitat for Humanity of Utah County has been providing affordable housing to local residents in need. Substandard housing endangers health and safety, and the organization utilizes volunteer labor, professional expertise, and tax-deductible donations to build simple, decent homes.
Kids On The Move provides services to support families with young children who have special needs. They work to support the development of these children through four specialized programs, each of which offers specialized services to both children and mothers. The organization provides high-quality, comprehensive services to families in the greater Utah community.
Utah Foster Care, known as UFC, finds, trains, and support Utah families who are willing and available to provide homes for children in foster care. In Utah, more than 2,900 children are in foster care at any given time—often a result of substance abuse and family crisis. Since its inception, UFC has recruited and trained more than 12,000 families to aid in child support.
Tabitha’s Way Local Food Pantry
Tabitha’s provides food and supplies to around 5,000 individuals each month. They utilize the support of their community and local businesses to provide services through their two food pantries and events. Through these community collaborations, Tabitha’s provides an ongoing and sustainable source of food for thousands of people and families.
Project Read is driven by the vision of a literate Utah County—where everyone has access to learning opportunities. The organization provides one-on-one tutoring services to adults with low literacy skills. They change lives through literacy by empowering individuals, strengthening families, and building community. Their mission is achieved through community volunteers and organizational partnerships.
Food & Care Coalition
The Food & Care Coalition wants to alleviate hunger and diminish poverty for all who seek their support. Their goals include finding and providing suitable housing, teaching financial accountability, facilitating moral development, and helping patrons achieve their full potential. The organization wants to create an environment where homeless men, women, and children an restore their self-esteem, retain their dignity, and become self-sufficient.
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