On February 17, 2026, members of Utah Valley University Rotaract volunteered to assist the Rotary Club of Orem-Lindon with their annual orange delivery service project in Orem, Utah. The event brought together Rotarians, their friends, family members, and Rotaractors to unload and pack citrus shipments into cars of the Rotarians and Rotaractors. Orem-Lindon Rotary Club members ordered 333 boxes of oranges, and 67 grapefruit. The top seller in the club was Dean Robertson, with 92 boxes sold. The second place took Rotarians Spencer and Jane Mack by selling 48 boxes, and Rotarian Lynn Hillstead was the third by selling 41 box. Rotarians are hoping to net around $10,000 to be used for charities they support and local service projects, including UVU Rotaractors. This service activity connected to our mission of leadership and community engagement through Rotaract and aligned with the service-based values promoted at Utah Valley University.
When we arrived, there was a large shipment of oranges and grapefruits from California waiting for us. Nearly 15 pallets filled with boxes of fresh citrus were ready to be unloaded and distributed. With the help of Rotarians, their friends, and fellow Rotaractors, we worked together to quickly and efficiently load the boxes into vehicles for delivery. My father, Jaime Figueroa, joined me to help support the Rotary members and to show his encouragement for my continued involvement in service and leadership, especially as I prepare for my United Nations study abroad opportunity this summer. In my car alone, we packed 12 boxes, and Louyoko Nianza, a fellow UVU Rotaractor, packed 4 boxes into his vehicle. Altogether, Rotaractors sold a total of 15 and a half boxes, contributing directly to the fundraiser’s success.
Truck Full of Oranges and Grapefruit Rotarians Ready for Unloading of Boxes
It took us about one hour to load everything just before a snowstorm began. The teamwork and urgency made the experience even more meaningful.
This activity strengthened student-engaged learning by allowing us to practice teamwork, organization, and leadership in a real community setting. We learned how to coordinate quickly, communicate effectively, and support a long-standing fundraising tradition that benefits schools and families in the Orem-Lindon area. The funds raised will help provide essential items such as coats and shoes for children in need, something that personally resonates with me, as I remember needing similar support when I was younger.
Natalia Figueroa Loading Boxes of Citrus Natalia Figueroa Ready to Serve
Through this experience, I developed stronger logistical coordination skills and community partnership experience. Supporting Rotary’s efforts also reflects the broader service values connected to international cooperation and development, similar to the principles upheld by Rotary International. I also learned more deeply the meaning behind Rotary’s motto, “Service Above Self,” and saw it lived out in action. This experience strengthened my love of service and reminded me that true leadership begins with putting others first. Experiences like this prepare me for future professional and diplomatic opportunities, including participation in UN-related programs and global service initiatives.
Dean Robinsion (Orem-Lindon Rotarian), Natalia Figueroa, Jaime Figueroa (Natalia’s Father) Celebrating
This experience was a happy and meaningful one for me. I felt proud to stand alongside Rotarians and Rotaractors working toward a shared goal. Seeing so many people come together to support local schools and communities reminded me that service starts at the local level but can have global meaning. I was especially grateful that my father came to support me, as it made the day even more special. This project strengthened my understanding that leadership is rooted in humility, hard work, and community collaboration.
Special thanks to the Orem-Lindon Rotary Club members for organizing this impactful fundraiser and to Rotaractors, friends, and family members who volunteered their time. Their efforts support local schools and strengthen the Orem-Lindon community.
We are grateful for the opportunity to serve and to contribute to a project that not only raises funds but also builds unity. This event reminded us that even simple acts like packing boxes of oranges into cars, can make a meaningful difference.
By Natalia Figueroa, President of the Utah Valley University Foreign Affairs Club, UVU Rotaractor.
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26-03-01-Alley-Holt-Fundraising for the Orem-Lindon Rotary Club through Selling Oranges
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26-02-21-Sophie-Jackson-Selling_Oranges Service_Activity
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26-02-26-Abbie Fisher_- Reflections on Contributing to the Annual Orange Sale Fundraiser
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26-03-01-Erynn Lammi-My Contribution to Our Rotary Orange Sales Service Project
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26-03-25-Domenic Callor-Orange Box Rotaract Fundraiser
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26-03-01-Antoine Mwamba From Door to Door My Orange Sale Experience
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