Two Utah Catholic high schools recognized for their commitment to community service

Friday, Jun. 05, 2020

SALT LAKE CITY/OGDEN — The United Nations Association of the United States of America has recognized students at two Utah Catholic high schools for their commitment and activities supporting the UN Global goals.

The recognition went to 186 students at Judge Memorial Catholic High School and 21 students at St. Joseph CHS.

“These students have used their time and talent to benefit others in our community and beyond. They have assisted in helping better our local community by helping many in need,” said Clay Jones, principal of St. Joseph CHS.

Schools and groups with a collective 2,000 hours of service, the equivalent of a full-time employee, were recognized. The Catholic school students were eligible in several categories: the Ambassador award was for students with 100 hours of service; the Honor award was for students with 40 hours of service; and the Merit award was for students with 20 hours of service.

Abigail Barnhart, a Judge Memorial sophomore, received the Ambassador award.

“It was really nice to be recognized for doing service,” she said.

Barnhart’s service included spending hours preparing meals for homeless people at parks in Salt Lake City. She also spent time talking to those who received the meals, and giving them clothes and Bibles. In addition, she served as a counselor at a kids’ camp.

“It is nice to know that people are acknowledging this [the service], since many others can do it, too,” she said, adding that the experience has shown her the importance of being present to others.

“You never really know people’s stories and what they are going through. ... It’s really good to be able to make a difference in their lives. The smallest things can make a big difference,” she said.

Cumulatively over the year, Judge Memorial students invested 17,894 hours in community needs, with an impact value of $447,171. 

At St. Joseph Catholic High School, with its smaller student body population, students invested 620 hours in community service.

Overall, 305 schools were recognized nationally by the United Nations Association of the United States of America, which connects the mission and work of the United Nations to schools and communities across the U.S.