Saint Patrick youth give back with Comcast Cares Day

Saint Patrick Youth Group

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Courtesy of Saint Patrick Youth Group

SALT LAKE CITY — Youth members from Saint Patrick Parish in Salt Lake City gathered at 7 a.m. April 21 to help out their local community at West High School for Comcast Cares Day, a nationwide event that brings volunteers to schools and recreation centers to provide service such as cleaning, repainting and landscape work.

This was the third year participating in Comcast Cares Day for St. Patrick youth, who are split into two groups: 6th-through 8th-graders make up the junior youth and 9th- through 12th-graders make up the senior youth.

Despite having to get up early on a Saturday, all of them were full of energy and eager to start giving back to their community.

"I liked how it was all spread around the school, with different teams doing different types of jobs," said Pricilla, a member of the junior youth. "We were put on the hallway crew, but there was also a crew cleaning staircases, bleachers, planting plants, and repainting hallways. It was well organized and I love getting to meet new people."

The hallway crew went from floor to floor and cleaned the hallways and the lockers. They started at the fourth floor and worked their way down to the basement. While cleaning, the youth talked and laughed, some worked diligently and concentrated, while others were singing and dancing along with one of the junior leaders while cleaning. These things made the work more fun and the youth soon forgot they were even doing service.

By the time lunch came, however, they were tired and ready to eat.

"I feel tired, but at the same time accomplished and happy that I gave back to the community," said Diana, a member of the senior youth.

Of the 11 St. Patrick youth members who participated in this service project, one has been to all three Comcast Cares Days the group has joined.

"This year's event, compared to the other years, wasn't as big of a turnout overall, but there was so much energy around that it still felt like a big turnout," said Trevor, a member of the senior youth. "After doing this for three years, I feel a lot more helpful."

Although the youth were tired, many cannot wait for next year's Comcast Cares Day service project. They wonder what crew they will be put on next year. Many are hoping it is painting – their favorite thing to do.

Courtesy of Saint Patrick Youth Group