Our New Office Manager!

Melissa has had four years of office management experience.  She started off by managing the dorm for a local college.  She was responsible for things like accepting students into the housing, keep accounts balanced, sorting mail, and keeping in touch with all the students and their parents.  This office experience taught her how to run a successful business and the importance of proper record keeping. 

With this knowledge, Melissa has been able to open, run, and maintain her own successful business.  She has been doing eyelash extensions for a year with a steady and loyal clientele.  Melissa says that she loves making people feel good about themselves and this has been a very rewarding job for her, especially since she was able to build it from the ground up and watch it grow.  She is still currently doing eyelash extensions as well as working at Youthlinc. 

Melissa is very excited to join the Youthlinc team.  She has always had a strong desire to serve others and has been able to take a few international trips in accordance with local service.  She has volunteered with groups such as United Way, Utah Foster Care, local elementary schools, art festivals and music festivals.  Melissa traveled to both Mexico and Russia to help those living there.  In Mexico she was able to build three homes for families, fundraised money for groceries to feed a family of four for a month, and donate school supplies, clothes, shoes, and toys for the kids.  In Russia, Melissa taught English to students ranging in age from three to eleven years old.  She lived there for a semester and says that is one of the best experiences of her live.  Melissa is very excited to join the Youthlinc team and is looking forward to working with many more students.

Welcome to the Youthlinc Team!



Service Year 2012 Testimonials

“Thank you for all you do to make these opportunities available to us. I had an incredible trip with amazing leadership.” –Paige Heyn, University of Utah, 2012 Cambodia F&F

“Service is the best thing we can do to make a difference in the world. The hands-on experiences of this trip was unique and eye-opening.” Mallory Leonard, Juan Diego Catholic High School, Draper, 2012 Cambodia

“Youthlinc has set my life in a new direction. I have now chosen a major that will allow me to continue to do work like this. I know this is what I want to do for the rest of my life.” Rebekah Meads, 2012 Cambodia

“I look forward so much to the next time I can volunteer, both internationally and locally. Our time in the village was the best two weeks of my life and the most meaningful service I’ve ever done.” Quinn O., Wasatch High School, Midway, 2012 Cambodia

Thailand 2012 Testimonials

“This experience has been one of a kind and I wouldn’t trade or change it for the world. Volunteering is amazing and brings so MANY WONDERFUL experiences that I would love to continue in the future.” -Caleb Kuehl

“I loved the construction project we were able to be involved in and it was sooooo much hard work, but it was very fulfilling to see the progress that was made every single day! … Our service was truly ALL HANDS ON!” -Jordan Nielson

"No matter how trivial or insignificant your service may feel, you are ALWAYS making a difference when you are giving your time way to someone else!” -Jordan Nielson

“Leaving the kids. There were tears rolling down everyone’s cheeks. It was so rewarding to see how much we affected the children and how much they affected us.” -Alison Gay

“We got specific buddies at the school we worked at and one of mine was amazing and fun and her laugh will forever be in my memory. On our final day at the school she simply said “I love you,” and we both cried. It was almost impossible to go.” -Kira Mercer

“Service knows no bounds, with teamwork much is achievable. Many hands do make light work. You provide the service but are the one that gets the REWARD in the end.” -Caleb Kuehl

“The best moment of our trip was doing the home visits with one of the students at the school. It was very eye opening and really gave perspective on the importance of our service.”  -Alison Gay

“Anyone and everyone can make a difference. Anyone who cares and is willing to give some time can be a miracle in someone’s life whether that is in Salt Lake or Thailand.” -Jessica Oglesby

Friends & Family 2012 Testimonials

“Service is not one big goal, it is lots of small things that in the end, make a dramatic impact on someone’s life.” –Isabel Reback

“Service makes life worth living. There are so many wonderful people in this world, it breaks my heart to see so many struggle in poverty and ignorance.” –Jay Bosshardt

“I have been wanting to do a service trip for a long time, and Youthlinc gave me that opportunity. I loved my experience and want to continue to do service at home and even another trip!” –Hannah Hoj

“I learned so much about myself on this trip, which is exactly what I needed. I proved to myself that I can do this and be strong both mentally and physically.” –Caitlin

“Service is about love and giving of yourself, rather than what you bring.”–John Bodine

"The people I have met in Cambodia are some of the brightest, happiest, and kindest people I have met in my entire life.  While our lifestyles seem worlds apart, we are all fundamentally the same.  -Jill Whitney

“I have learned to an even greater extent how much I enjoy serving others. It feels so good to look at the finished construction projects, the piles of medical and education supplies, and the kids smiling faces. We worked SO hard and it was totally worth it.” – Emma Stephens

“I will definitely continue to volunteer because I have realized it is so easy to make a difference if you’re willing to put in a little effort.” –Smita Sahay

“The best moment was bonding with all the kids and seeing how grateful they were for us. The worst part was saying goodbye.” –JJ Barth

“Youthlinc did a great job of providing guidance and support, while giving the committee the room to decide how to manage their responsibilities. The mentors and team leaders taught us simplicity and flexibility—two key tools to creating successful programs.” –John Bodine

Cambodia 2012 Testimonials

“Service is the best thing we can do to make a difference in the world.  The hands-on experiences of this trip were unique and eye-opening.”  -Mallory Leonard

“One person might not be able to save the world, but one can certainly change lives.” -Mecham Groneman

"I have a much better attitude toward work, people, life, etc.  I want to continue to volunteer at my service site even though I am done with the local service requirement.”  -Hannah Kriesel

“Youthlinc has set my life in a new direction. I know this is what I want to do for the rest of my life.”  -Rebekah Meads

"We gave them things that we take for granted, but for them, we performed miracles.”  -Mecham Groneman

“I look forward so much to the next time I can volunteer, both internationally and locally.  Our time in the village was the best two weeks of my life and the most meaningful service I’ve ever done.”  -Quinn Olpin

"I don’t speak Khmer, but I could tell by the looks in the mothers eyes how happy they were that people who don’t even know them were helping their children have a chance at a better future.”  -Emily Sorensen

"I have learned the importance and joy of serving others.  The service we provided in Cambodia was life-changing and has inspired me to continue volunteering.”  -Sarah Menlove

“I saw a boy who was looking for food scraps.  I gave him my leftover breakfast bread.  Instead of eating it all, he walked over to his brother and split it.  They are such a humble people.”  -Carina Ream

"To treat everyone with utmost respect and to love them as individuals-- this is the best service anyone can give.”  -Ben Lindstrom

Guatemala 2012 Testimonials

“This was an amazing experience.  It was the hardest things I have ever done in my life but I am forever changed.” -Kristy Hanni

“I have learned, more than anything else, I don’t change the people I work with but rather they change me.  The best way to feel happy is to serve others.  The best way to learn to love is through service.” -Michelle Moynihan

“After going to Guatemala I have grown such a great love for others.   There is no greater feeling than being able to see someone smile because of something you’ve done.” -Rebekah Ericson

“No doubt we used all the time we had, but I wished that we had more time.” -Ryan Davis

“Serving not only helps those you are helping but makes you a more generous and compassionate person.  It makes people happy!” -Kristy Hanni

“My participation in Youthlinc this year has given me a deep desire to serve others. Youthlinc’s program is excellent and I have no doubt that I will continue to be a humanitarian throughout my life.” -Ryan Davis

“This experience has convinced me to always serve.  Not because I feel that I must contribute, but more because of the humanity, love, respect, responsibility, tolerance and determination it gives me.” -Hannah Morrison

“I realized that I am my best self when I lose myself in the service of others.  I love the feeling of satisfaction & joy that I felt after completing each project & each day of service; that’s what I want to feel for the rest of my life.” -Zoe Leavitt

"The best moment was when all the kids lined up to give us hugs and say goodbye; those relationships will ever burn in my heart.” -Lindsey Newton

“I have enjoyed this opportunity more than words can say. Service crosses all barriers; language and everything. The desire to be a lifetime humanitarian is completely imbedded in me from this experience.” -Bree Jones

Peru 2012 Testimonials

"The community was so involved and supportive in all of our projects. They accepted us with wide open hearts and loved us with such an honest and pure love” -Megan Dolle

"We set out shoes and one by one helped each villager pick a new pair of shoes! There was one little girl who was really sad and after we tried a couple of pairs of shoes we found the perfect pair. Her face just lit up.” –Rachel Leonard

“Youthlinc helped me step outside my comfort zone and really embrace each situation that I was placed in.” -Sophie Rex

“I know truly what thankfulness and gratification are now. I want those feelings again. I also feel now that I can make a difference and no matter how dirty, smelly and gross you are, people will always love you if you do all that you can.” -Grayson Murphy

"I was always busy working with the wonderful people of the village. I fell in love with the people, especially the kids due to the hands-on service I did every single day.” -Elysha Davis

“Youthlinc helped open so many doors to volunteering in my community that I would not have found otherwise! I will forever be a volunteer and lifelong humanitarian!! Thank you Youthlinc!” -Sophie Rex

“Service is not about how it looks on an application, it is about how you can affect others and how they can affect you. Service allows both the giver and the receiver a chance to grow...” -Grayson Murphy

“I was filled by moments that took my breath away. A student teaching the Peruvian children how to say ‘I love you’ or our hug circle as we said our goodbyes, being welcomed into the village every morning … all of these moments are in my heart forever.” -Elham Nazzal

“I loved being reminded of the ‘right’ ways to serve—to help give a hand up not out, to work hard alongside those you are helping.” -Joanie Moss

Kenya 2012 Testimonials

“I’ve learned not only how important service is, but how one person can make a difference and feel so much happiness through helping others.” – Rachel Gutke

“Youthlinc is as ‘hands on’ as it gets. Whether it be construction, or going personally to meet the needs of others on home visits, or teaching in the schools, the Kenya trip was all hands on.” –Jake Segura

 “When we first arrived at St. Peter’s in Kajuki, all of the kids were singing outside and had been waiting for us to get there all day. It was so hard leaving those children, many tears were shed at the end of the trip.” –Erica Thompson,

“Youthlinc provided multiple service opportunities during the year and at our site in Kenya. At both sites I was able to help and direct people with the skills that I had.” –Marissa Unbedacht

“I wish I would have known how hard it was going to be to say goodbye!” – Rachel Gutke

“Everything about Kajuki was hands on. We all threw ourselves in our work no matter what committee we were on. I enjoyed experiencing parts of other committees. As I taught kids how to make button bracelets and as I helped with the murals, or helped paint the school” – Madeline Rencher

“Youthlinc has shown me the importance of hands on, intimate service. It has given me more reason to serve and has shown me the difference I can make.” –Jake Segura

“I have many favorite moments. But the best was when we first drove up to Kajuki much later than when they expected us. There was singing and smiles and introductions and hands shaking and it all just felt so surreal. I couldn’t believe I was experiencing this remarkable of an event.” - Madeline Rencher,

“My favorite moment was when leaving Kajuki.  I was searching everywhere for the one girl I especially connected with, and I couldn’t find her anywhere. Eventually it was time to leave and I was forced to get in the van. As we were pulling away she ran from the distance crying.  She got on her knees and blew a kiss.” – Callie May

Mentor 2012 Testimonials

"All of our mentors were caring and loving! They made sure all of our needs were always taken care of! They were involved with our projects but I really appreciated that they let us run the show and they did so patiently and with constructive criticisms.” Jordan Nielson, U of U, Thailand

“You GIVE a year to service locally and internationally. You GAIN lifelong attributes and memories that will change your life.” – Jenny Jones, 2011 Peru Team Mentor

“Our mentors were able to gain our trust and friendship by being so kind and caring about the students on our team, but they were always aware that they were mentors before they were friends.” – Jaden Carlson, 2012 Guatemala team

“All our mentors were open-minded and open-hearted. They opened their lives to us and provided a sense of safety which ensured a comfortable international experience.”– Kaila Balch, 2012 Guatemala Team Member

“The mentors on my trip made me feel safe and important to our team. They helped me within my committee, but never took full control over the situations. They always made me sure the students had a say in things and that our opinions were heard.” –Katie Stevens, Kenya 2012

“Creating lifelong humanitarians comes from attitude first. The more you do service for other people, the more you can see it change their lives. When you see it change their lives for the better, it changes your life, and the more you do it becomes a habit.” – 2012 John McNeill, Kenya Team Mentor

“This was the first time I had ever done anything like this. Sometimes, if not all the time it is easier to do something yourself instead of watch or teach somebody to do the same task. But if you do not let them do it they will never learn.” –John McNeill, 2012 Kenya Team Mentor

“If not you, who? If not now, when? Youthlinc provides the rest.” –2011 Jason Taylor, Kenya Team Mentor

“The mentors did exactly what they were supposed to. They helped us get to our final goal, but let us lead the way!” –Erica Thompson, Kenya 2012

It was an absolute kick to see the kids interact with the school children and villagers, to see the Cambodian kids get school uniforms and bicycles, toothbrushes and toothpaste, a new school building and a well (they had no water at the school). Perhaps the most grateful people of the entire trip were the women who were given washable, reusable sanitary napkins. It is one of those things that never would have crossed my mind yet made a huge impact on the people there who have no access to something so simple as a sanitary napkin. The experience has changed my daughter's life and mine as well. - Glen Bowen, Cambodia 2012

Presenting Youthlinc's 2012 Team All Stars-- 6 extraordinary students

 Youthlinc's 2012 Team All Star Students

This year, Youthlinc had each team select one participant on the team that went above and beyond in their local and international service, exemplified strong leadership abilities and a future of humanitarianism.  We are proud to announce our six fantastic All Star students, and feel inspired by their passion to serving others.

Rebekah Meads; Cambodia Team

People ask me why I do service, and more often than not, I find it rather difficult to give them a good answer. My most honest answer to that question, if not understood properly could be taken in the wrong way, or even selfishly. I serve because of how it makes me feel. There is no better feeling in the world than when I am performing meaningful service. When I am serving I can't help but radiate pure joy! Seeing the gratitude and happiness my service brings to people is the most gratifying experience I could ever imagine. After my trip to Cambodia I told my mom that, "I've never felt so full as I did while I was serving alongside the Cambodians." I feel like any difference I might make by serving is insignificant in comparison to the impact that it has on me. Through serving I have learned more about life, love, gratitude, and myself than through any other experiences I've had. The chance to literally see the impact and difference you make on someone’s life will change your own life and perspective forever. It has mine. 

Kenya, You Were Good To Us! It Was A Hard Good-Bye!

      I can't believe we're back! After an emotional, exciting, adventurous, fun, and successful trip, the Kenya Team has arrived back to Utah all safe and sound. It was such a hard goodbye as your journey came to an end, but we accomplished and each learned so much and came back new people because of our amazing experience.

Here is a day by day rundown of our journey:

Strangers become friends working side by side in Yanamono II Peru

For several blogs on the team accomplishments go to www.youthlinc-blog.blogspot.com 

Our last day in the village was a packed one. We began with our community carnival. We had face painting, nail painting, parachuting and games of all kinds. We then had our final soccer game.

We were able to attend a handicraft and soap fair put on by the village. Here we were able to purchase beautiful crafts created by our friends as well as soap that they had made during our time here. Closing ceremonies came too fast. Here we took turns with the villagers singing songs, sharing poems and even a few dances. A group of our students who had been carrying out a guitar project with teens from the village worked with those students to play and sing a song together. We had many beautiful talents shared. Different families from the village sang songs and shared different talents with us. Together our group performed the Waka Waka and sang a goodbye song.

After all of the songs had ended they asked us if they could each give us a hug. Our huge team lined up and villagers came through the line hugging us and thanking us one by one. Many of us stumbled through our Spanish to try to convey to them our gratitude for the time they spent with us. We then went outside together to chop down “The May Pole.” This is a big pole that has been decorated with handicrafts. Everyone dances around it as we pass a machete from person to person. Everyone gets to take two swings before they pass it. When the pole finally falls, you run to get out of the way. Then you get to go to the fallen pole for a gift. It was a great way to end the day.

The people of Yanamono II are amazed that a group of strangers would work so hard to come and work in their village. They will never know though all that we gained from being there and all that they truly gave to us during our time spent. We will never be able to repay them for all they gave to us. They will forever be in our hearts.

Adventures and Animals Abound in Peru

Night was a cacophony of creature sounds of all kinds. And when we were lucky, the clouds would part and we were left to see a masterpiece of stars in the sky. At the Heliconia Lodge we had our good friend Pedro who would greet us in the mornings, occasionally by perching above the bread plate at breakfast and leaving us an extra special treat;) And we can't forget our many tarantula friends who could be found all around.

Other Project Highlights from Peru

Our cultural committee organized community soccer games with the villagers. Our team was divided into four teams and we recruited any villager who wanted to play. We played tournament style. The women in Yanamono II requested a womens only game. This game was epic as the field contained hidden puddles that caused face plants, hard core Peruvian women playing in bare feet, and we've heard tale of a few cases of pants wetting! The entire community showed up to watch these games and it was a complete blast.

Towards the end of the trip we carried out our shoe distribution project. Youthlinc participants were partnered with someone from the community and our Youthlincers helped them find that special pair of shoes. There's nothing quite like taking the hand of someone, walking them down the tables of shoes, dusting of their worn feet and helping them try on shoes until they've got the perfect fit.