By Joni Renick
Hundreds of volunteers showed up to give of their time to the Provo community through the United Way Day of Caring Friday.
The breakfast that morning was supposed to have a celebratory atmosphere, however in remembrance of those who died in the terrorist attacks of Tuesday the tone was changed to one of a more patriotic and somber nature.
In lieu of balloons a memorial of flowers and a quote by President Bush was set up at the entrance.
A flag raising ceremony was also held to remember the tragedy. The ceremony was followed by the pledge of allegiance, after which few people had dry eyes.
Jean Cox, the Communications Director for the United Way of Utah County said after the tragedy of Tuesday there was an outpouring of volunteers who wanted to help. In fact so many people wanted to help, more service projects had to be added to the day”s activities.
Numerous businesses as well as BYU were represented at the projects. Some of these projects included helping both the Center for Women and Children in Crisis and the American Red Cross with beautification and restoration at their centers.
Provo Marriott provided the free pancake breakfast for volunteers at the event. General Manager John Garfield said that this is the third year the Marriott has provided this breakfast for the volunteers and they always look forward to doing so every year.
Garfield also said that after the tragedies of the past week people just could not help but be touched and it is just good to know that everyone is in this situation together.
Barbara Smith of Channel 4 News was the emcee of the event.
The Daily Herald was honored for their campaign that raised over $10,000 for the United Way.
BYU was also thanked for the use of their facilities for the breakfast.
Roger Williams, President of the Wells Fargo-Central Utah and this year”s United Way Campaign Chair, thanked all the volunteers for coming out to make a difference. He said, “It is through the united efforts of all of us that we meet the critical needs of our community.”
Bill Hulterstrom, President and CEO of the United Way of Utah County said that people just want to make a difference. He added, “our job is to help them make a difference in the most impactful way possible.”
The mayors of both Provo and Orem were in attendance at the event. Provo Mayor Lewis K. Billings said, “This country needs to heal and there”s no better way to heal than to serve.”
Orem Mayor Jerry Washburn also commented on the situation, “People want to be able to give back, to break away from the sorrow on the television.”
Mayor Billings also said that because of the events of Tuesday many citizens have lost their sense of peace. “A great way to find that peace is to serve” Billings said.
“There is no better way to remember and appreciate those who have fallen than to serve,” said Mayor Billings. And that comment reflected the entire tone of The United Way Day of Caring Friday.
