When Eric and Staci Avarell were walking by United Way one day, they decided to stop in to inquire about volunteer opportunities. They discovered that volunteers were needed at the United Way of Utah County Sub for Santa application workshops and signed up to help.

“It was good for us to help out, and we enjoyed volunteering together,” Staci said. “We had wanted to be a sponsor for a family but didn’t have the money, but this was a way we could help out.”

Families receiving assistance through United Way of Utah County Sub for Santa must apply and qualify for assistance. They attend application workshops where they fill out forms and provide financial information to show their need. Numerous eligibility factors are considered, including income, expenses and individual disabilities, as well as other circumstances, such as recent unemployment.

At the workshops they also learn about educational and financial resources available in the community.

“At the workshops, we helped the applicants fill out the applications and made sure they had all the forms they needed,” Eric said. “We also got everything put together and ready for the next workshops.”

According to Jenn Kilstrom, director of United Way of Utah County Sub for Santa, those who qualify for help through the Christmas assistance program are often recovering from unique situations that have made it impossible for them to provide Christmas on their own.

“It was interesting to see the wide variety of applicants,” Staci said. “They all had different circumstances and just needed a little help.”

“Most were just in a tough situation for a couple of months,” Eric added. “But they were moving forward and really trying to get their life in order.”

The Avarells felt that although they were giving of their time, they were also getting something back.

“These people are really trying and just want to make things okay for their kids,” Eric said. “They were very grateful and expressed gratitude to me for being there.”

“It makes you more grateful for the things you have,” Staci said. “And when you start volunteering a little you don’t want to stop.”