2025 Heart & Hands Award Recipients

JFS was thrilled to celebrate three of our dedicated volunteers at this month’s Utah Philanthropy Day Luncheon. Each of them received a Heart & Hands Award, which honors individuals who make significant contributions to an organization’s mission through their volunteer or philanthropic service. We are grateful for the compassion, commitment, and generosity that Abby, Hyeok, and Hyeon bring to JFS, and we are honored to recognize them for the meaningful impact they make in our community.

Abby Geddes plays a vital role in our Dementia Friendly Activities (DFA) program, which provides meaningful, engaging experiences for individuals living with dementia. These activities foster connection, reduce isolation, and support cognitive and emotional well-being in a safe, supportive environment. Abby consistently brings warmth, compassion, and an intuitive ability to meet our clients’ needs. Her natural talent for connecting with individuals living with dementia is truly remarkable, and she has become a trusted, invaluable member of our volunteer team. Her initiative and dependability give staff the confidence to focus on other responsibilities, knowing that with Abby present, everything will run smoothly.

Twins Hyeok and Hyeon Jeong, remarkable volunteers in our Alex & Sally Lebwohl Food Pantry, have been an integral part of our operations over the past few years. This dynamic duo brings energy, reliability, and an instinctive sense of what needs to be done—qualities that have become increasingly essential as the number of individuals seeking food assistance continues to grow.

Each week, they assist with sorting donations, preparing bags, and helping ensure the pantry runs efficiently. Their teamwork and willingness to jump in wherever needed have made a lasting impact. Claudia Cruz, our Food Pantry Coordinator, often shares her gratitude, noting how their dedication helps us meet the needs of every person who walks through our door. 

We are deeply grateful for the compassion, commitment, and generosity that Abby, Hyeok, and Hyeon bring to JFS, and we are honored to recognize them for the meaningful impact they make in our community.

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