Nick Standiford spends three afternoons each week working with the many children who belong to the Boys and Girls Club of Utah County.  He has been volunteering at the club since January of this year.

“I help out with the kids, making sure they feel good about themselves,” Standiford said. “The volunteers give them someone to look up to.”

Standiford said that he finds that service helps balance is life as a student studying accounting at Brigham Young University. Those who work with Standiford appreciate his dedication and willingness to do anything to help those at the club.

“He doesn’t have to be told what to do,” said Krystal Bridges, unit director at the Boys and Girls Club of Utah County. “He takes care of what needs to be done and always finds something to do. He is great at working with kids.” 

The Boys and Girls Club of Utah County currently serves more than 100 children who attend activities at the clubhouse. They range in age from six to 18 years old. Homework help, service activities, cultural enrichment and field trips are just a few of the services that are provided through the club.

“It has been rewarding to see how happy the kids are when I am helping them,” Standiford said. “Growing up I had my own problems so I can relate to the kids. That is why I wanted to help out and get involved.”

A child can join the Boys and Girls Club of Utah County for $10 for the school year and $10 for the summer. Each child who joins receives a club t-shirt and a club card. The programs and services that are offered to the children are primarily funded by United Way donations, grants and other private funds.