On Wednesday, March 25, 2026, members of Utah International Mountain Forum (UIMF), a coalition of student clubs at Utah Valley University (UVU) hosted a service activity focused on assembling and sorting coats for children in underserved schools across Utah County. This initiative was designed as a collaborative service project aimed at addressing community needs through direct student engagement and participation.
Aemish Brock on left and Antoine Mwamba on the right sorting coats
The event brought together both traditional and non-traditional students as part of a student-engaged learning model. Traditional students are those who enter college directly after high school, while non-traditional students may be older, working, returning to school after time away, or balancing family responsibilities. This mix created a diverse and meaningful learning environment. By working side by side, students were able to share different perspectives, skills, and life experiences, enriching the project for everyone involved. The collaborative nature of the event also helped build a sense of community and teamwork while making a tangible difference in the lives of children in need.
Sophie Jackson Sorting Coats Natalia Figueroa Sorting Coats
The project followed a student-engaged learning model, meaning students actively participated in hands-on service rather than just learning in a classroom. By directly contributing to the coat organization effort, students were able to apply what they learn to real-world community needs, making the experience more impactful.
Cristina Alves Sorting Coats Coats sorted and ready for delivery
Participants worked alongside Jenessa Purcell, UIMF President, as well as Aemish Brock, Natalia Figueroa, Ana Caballero, Sophie Jackson, Abbie Fisher, Cristian Alves, and Antoine Mwamba. Collectively, UIMF members contributed their time and effort to organize coats that will directly benefit children in need. Sherese, a Rotarian who works with Tabatha’s Way and local schools in the Utah County area, donated 35 bags of coats for the project. Students sorted through the coats to ensure they could be cleaned, checked that tags were removed, and made them ready for distribution to children in need.
Through this service project, students engaged in meaningful community service by preparing coats for distribution as part of the broader “Service Project: Sorting Coats” initiative. This experience provided valuable firsthand learning opportunities, strengthening teamwork, leadership, and organizational skills.
The initiative reflects UIMF’s continued commitment to experiential learning and community engagement, while equipping students with practical skills essential for their academic and professional development.
By Antoine Mwamba, UVU Student
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