×
×
homepage logo

Mayors of Utah Valley: The power of service in our community

By Lehi Mayor Mark Johnson - Special to the Daily Herald | Sep 20, 2025

Courtesy Lehi Serves

Volunteers in Lehi participate in the National Day of Service on Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025.

We have angels that serve among us. They are all around us and often only reveal themselves when they are needed, and they are so often needed. On September 13, many came together to celebrate the National Day of Service, where I witnessed the heartfelt celebration of our humanity through selfless efforts of kindness.

For the last few years, I have enjoyed this wonderful event that testifies to the greatness in our society. Thousands of our citizens have participated in these events which have included many different opportunities for community service thanks to the efforts of the Lehi Serves organization which has partnered with Lehi City since 2022 to promote and manage this opportunity.

This year, for the first time, we recognized three extraordinary recipients through the “JustServe Hero Award” program. Each one has demonstrated a remarkable spirit of service, and together they show the many ways individuals and organizations strengthen our community.

One of those honorees is Erin Holmstead, an exceptional example of youth leadership. Erin consistently steps in where help is needed, showing initiative, reliability, and compassion far beyond her years. Through her work with Lehi Cares, her role as Community Outreach Officer for the Lehi Youth Council, and her mentoring of peers in music, business, and leadership, she has inspired others to serve. By partnering with organizations like the Utah Drug Prevention Coalition and Lehi Serves, Erin has opened doors for even more youth to give back. Her character and heart for service remind us that leadership begins with lifting others.

We also celebrated Harrison Craig, who at just 10 years old has already demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to service. Determined to earn a prestigious volunteer award, Harrison completed more than 75 hours of service in less than six months, half the usual time. His efforts have included cleaning parks, removing graffiti, planting wildflowers, building equipment, and even leading groups in projects. Beyond his service, Harrison is a leader on the soccer field, a strong student, and a role model to his younger sister. His example reminds us that no one is ever too young to make a difference.

Courtesy Lehi Serves

Volunteers in Lehi participate in the National Day of Service on Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025.

Our third honoree, Gerber Construction, became the first business to receive a JustServe Hero Award. In honor of their 50th anniversary, Gerber didn’t just celebrate within their company, they chose to give back to Lehi in a big way. In a single day, 158 employees donated their time, skills, and equipment, providing an estimated $60,000 – $70,000 in labor and resources to beautify the city. Their coordinated efforts across multiple projects showcased what it looks like when a business invests deeply in its community.

We are grateful to these honorees for their examples, and to Lehi Serves for creating opportunities that bring our community together in service.

Mark Johnson is the mayor of Lehi.

Volunteers in Lehi participate in the National Day of Service on Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025.

Lehi Mayor Mark Johnson

Starting at $4.32/week.

Subscribe Today