Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
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Coco Warner Reporting This week, we're introducing you to some of Utah's unsung heroes. They're ordinary people who are providing extraordinary service through their volunteer efforts. And we're giving them a "High Five."
This morning we highlight a volunteer with Salt Lake County's Aging Services.
For Judy Rhees, her volunteering does as much for her as it does for the people she helps.
Judy knocks on Celia Hernandez's door about twice a month. It's a welcome sound for both women.
Judy volunteers for Salt Lake County's Aging Services and visits 81-year-old Celia to help her keep track of and pay her bills.
She first caught the volunteer bug almost 5 years ago from her daughter who worked with Volunteers America. Judy has helped Celia for just over a year.
Judy Rhees/Salt Lake County Aging Services: "But it doesn't take a lot of time to do it. I wish more people would do it because it's not like you're on a contract, like you've got to do something every single day. They can choose their hours, their days. There're so many things that they need help with."
Celia and Judy say they both benefit from Judy's volunteering. In the process they've become friends.
Celia Hernandez: "I couldn't do without Judy. If I could, I would have her move in and I'd keep her."
Judy Rhees/Salt Lake County Aging Services: "I just only spend an hour and a half every other week with Celia. So it's really not time consuming. But I can do for her what she can't do. It gives us both satisfaction."
While Judy is great, we're thinking there are a lot more "Judy's" out there.
So we want you to nominate the people in your life who really are making a difference. And it doesn't have to be a big deal-- maybe it's as simple as helping carpool your kids to school.
Whatever it is, we want to surprise them live on television and give them a High Five on your behalf!
