High school clubs engage in community service through JustServe

Eight high school leaders from Utah presented their service activities to the JustServe National Advisory Council in Salt Lake City on November 6, 2024. JustServe, an initiative by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, encourages community service among students.

Colton Reid, vice president of the West Jordan High School JustServe club, highlighted the program's role in fostering community connections. “JustServe is a great club and program to [help us] really go and help our communities out to grow and [help us] become a more community-connected school,” he stated.

The platform hosts 293 clubs across the U.S., with 29 located in Utah. Corner Canyon High School's club has engaged 113 members in projects such as writing birthday cards for veterans and fundraising for foster care. Student Jaxon Luttrell appreciated the inclusivity: “It does not matter your background or who you are... It’s just a way for people to make friends and connect.”

Woods Cross High School’s club president Tate Keddington emphasized the impact of service: “That’s when I realized, ‘Whoa, service is awesome.’” This year, they focused on aiding their school's teen center by assembling snack packs for students facing economic challenges.

Brooklyn Bradley noted how small efforts can significantly affect others' lives. She remarked on her experience: “This JustServe club has had a huge impact. I love doing service with all my friends.”

Mountain Ridge High School's club created blankets for hospitalized children and organized a trash cleanup at their school. Club leader Kennedy Haymond commented on participation levels: “It was really cool because there were so many people there that came to help serve.” Rachel Merrill added that JustServe helps students connect while contributing positively.

The gathering included viewing "Lift: Connecting Humanity," featuring several Advisory Council members focused on volunteerism. Elder Brian K. Taylor shared a reflection: “There’s a scripture that keeps coming to my mind — and we all know the scripture... Jesus went about doing good.”

More information about these initiatives can be found at JustServe.org.