United Way of Utah County celebrates grand opening of new American Fork center
-
- A ribbon-cutting ceremony marks the grand opening of United Way of Utah County’s newest community center in American Fork on Thursday, April 10, 2025.
-
- American Fork resident Alicia Meiners is pictured with her children after speaking about their experience at the new United Way of Utah County center in American Fork during a grand opening celebration on Thursday, April 10, 2025.
-
- An art display is shown inside the reading club room at United Way of Utah County’s newest community center in American Fork on Thursday, April 10, 2025.
-
- Popcorn is served as part of a family-themed fair after the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new United Way of Utah County center in American Fork during a grand opening celebration on Thursday, April 10, 2025.
-
- This photo shows people gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the grand opening of United Way of Utah County’s newest community center in American Fork on Thursday, April 10, 2025.
-
- The lobby inside of United Way of Utah County’s newest community center in American Fork is pictured Thursday, April 10, 2025.
The United Way of Utah County is expanding its services and resources into northern Utah Valley.
The organization on Thursday celebrated the grand opening of its newest community center in American Fork, marking its third location in the county along with the existing Provo and Payson facilities.
Leaders from United Way of Utah County, as well as stakeholders, and community members spoke during a brief presentation highlighting the center’s role in fostering community connections and providing educational programs. Followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and opportunities where families, students, and curious minds of all ages explored interactive STEM activities.
Bill Hulterstrom, United Way of Utah County CEO, said the new center is more than just a building — it’s a vibrant place where neighbors come together to learn, connect and thrive.
“It is designed to be a place for neighbors to get together, get to know each other better, serve each other, and also we’re bringing others programs and classes and opportunities to learn and grow together,” Hulterstrom said during Thursday’s celebratory event.
The new center will focus on early education, literacy workshops, and STEM programs offered in both English and Spanish. Additionally, the facility will provide accessible resources for families and individuals looking to grow, learn, and succeed, the organization said in a press release issued last month.
United Way of United County announced plans to open the American Fork facility last August after receiving a $300,000 grant from the Texas Instruments Foundation to fund the new center.
Though Thursday marked the facility’s grand opening, the American Fork community center’s doors opened to the public in late January.
The facility is already making an impact in the community with more than 90 families utilizing its programs and services, according to Julianne Jones, head of marketing at United Way of Utah County.
American Fork resident Alicia Meiners said she was delighted to learn the new center was right in her neighborhood earlier this year.
She’s been coming to the center on a weekly basis since February, participating in a kids’ playgroup and science activities.
“The center feels like a second home to us,” Meiners said. “It is a place where we connect, a place where my kiddo gets to learn, a place where I get to make new friends.”
She also noted the center’s significant impact on the community, more specifically for its proximity and convenience for those without access to a car during the day.
“We are a one car family, and my husband takes it to work, so it’s really important to us that something is close,” Meiners said. “I’d heard about the one in Provo, but it was just too far away to make a difference in my life.”
American Fork Mayor Brad Frost took the opportunity to express gratitude for the new resource and benefits it aims to offer to the local families.
“In a world that might be a little confusing to some, especially to the younger kids … how grateful we are to have a space where they can come and they can connect with their community,” Frost said. “So we are thrilled to have you here.”
Hulterstrom said the new United Way Community Center would not be possible without the support of Texas Instruments and its commitment to education and building strong, connected communities.
“Texas Instruments and the TI Foundation are longtime supporters of United Way and believe in the significant role it plays in creating opportunities for all to thrive,” said Andy Smith, the company’s director of giving and volunteering and executive director of the TI Foundation.
Claudia Hales, coordinator at American Fork’s United Way Center, stressed the facility’s desire to empower the community in an inclusive environment through different resources — including digital inclusion courses and English classes for immigrants.
“I want to welcome and embrace everyone,” Hales told the Daily Herald. “This is not just for select people, but for everyone.”
More than 200 volunteers and attendees from the local businesses and neighboring communities took part in Thursday’s celebration.
The United Way Community Center in American Fork is located at 90 S. Center St.
For more information, visit unitedwayuc.org.
