Orem-Lindon Rotarians serving pancakes: (L to R): Glen Ricks and Natalie Okeson
Three Utah Valley University (UVU) students including me, and a Rotaractor from Congo had the incredible opportunity to participate in the annual Summerfest all-you-can-eat Breakfast Fundraiser hosted by the Orem-Lindon Rotary Club on June 10, 2023. Today's date brings a fresh wave of excitement as I recall the delightful experience of making pancake batter and contributing to this fantastic event. The focus on student-engaged learning and community impact resonated strongly throughout the day.
Orem-Lindon Rotarians serving pancakes: (L to R): Dean Robinson, Sheryl Merkley, Glen Ricks , Derek Marshall, Natalie Okeson, and Rick Dideriksen
The breakfast menu was a true delight, featuring mouth-watering pancakes adorned with butter, a variety of syrups (including homemade buttermilk), fresh berries, and fluffy whipped cream. To accompany this culinary feast, attendees could choose between chocolate milk and refreshing orange juice. The combination of flavors and the shared enjoyment of good food created a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Orem-Lindon Rotarians serving pancakes: (L to R) Dean Robinson, Lynn Hillstead, Sheryl
Merkley and Derek Marshall.
Under the leadership of Orem-Lindon Rotary Past President Dean Robinson, this breakfast fundraiser ran flawlessly. Dean skillfully organized the event, gathering a dedicated team of volunteers to ensure its smooth operation.
Orem city families enjoy pancakes prepared by Rotarians
The main cooks for the day were Danny Bentley, Mike Rich, Rick Dideriksen, and Derek Marshall, seasoned volunteers who skillfully prepared the delicious pancakes that delighted the attendees. Their culinary expertise and attention to detail ensured that every pancake was a delightful treat for the taste buds. The presence of Carter Darger from UVU and a Rotaractor from Congo Louyoko Christ, lending their culinary skills to the kitchen team, added an extra flair to the culinary experience.
Rotarian Danny Bentley is preparing the delicious pancakes with a former Orem Mayor Brunst in the background
(L to R): Rotaractor Carter Darger is excited to prepare the pancake in the form of Micky Mouse as per mentorship of Rotarian Mike Rich
(L to R): Rotaractor Carter Darger is happy to show the pancake in the form of Micky Mouse to Carter and Canden Marshall, sons of Rotarian Derek Marshall.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of the event, it was impossible to ignore the vital role played by Cathy Ambrose, who managed the event's social media presence. Her efforts ensured that the impact of the breakfast fundraiser reached beyond the physical attendees, extending to a wider audience through various online platforms. Her dedication and expertise in leveraging social media for a cause are commendable and contributed to the overall success of the event.
( L to R): Rotarians Bruce Earl, Lori Robinson and Dean Robinson are preparing a syrup
As I reflected on the significance of this event, I was reminded of my two-year anniversary with the UVU Rotaract Club, as part of the Utah International Mountain Forum (UIMF) a coalition of students at UVU, which made my involvement with the Orem-Lindon Rotarians even more meaningful. Collaborating with the UVU UIMF and Foreign Affairs Club, another UIMF member added another layer of camaraderie and shared purpose to the event. We were a diverse group of individuals, united by our passion for service and making a positive impact on our community.
During the event, I had been assigned the task of making the pancake batter together with UIMF mentor and Rotarian Baktybek Abdrisaev under the leadership of Rotarian Lynn Hillstead. As I took charge of this important responsibility, I embraced the opportunity to contribute to the success of the breakfast fundraiser. With the goal of creating delicious and fluffy pancakes for the attendees, I carefully measured and mixed the ingredients to achieve the perfect consistency. This hands-on involvement not only allowed me to showcase my culinary skills but also highlighted the principles of student-engaged learning in action.
Stephan Atkinson, UVU Rotaractor and Rotarian Baktybek Abdrisaev are preparing the batter
Collaborating with fellow volunteers from the Orem-Lindon Rotary Club, UVU UIMF, and the Foreign Affairs Club, I took pride in my role as the pancake batter maker. By ensuring the batter was well-prepared and ready to be cooked, I was glad to contribute to the success of the event. It was a true team effort, with everyone bringing their unique skills and contributions to the table.
Rotarian D.J. Smith and "Silver Smith" ensemble are entertaining the audience
Working alongside the Orem-Lindon Rotary Club proved to be an enriching experience once again. Over the past year, my volunteer efforts have allowed me to cultivate valuable connections and friendships, and this breakfast event was no exception. The shared sense of purpose and the bond formed through service work continue to inspire me, and I eagerly anticipate future opportunities to join forces with the Orem-Lindon Rotarians. With enthusiasm, I already look forward to attending next year's breakfast, further strengthening our shared commitment to serving the local and global community.
Rotarian Clark Merkley with UVU student Stephan Atkinson
Amidst the buzz of the event, I had the pleasure of connecting with Clark Merkley, a distinguished member of the Orem-Lindon Rotary Club. We engaged in a meaningful conversation about the power of Rotary connections and the potential for collaboration with Rotarians in Norway. Exploring the possibilities of international partnerships and service projects ignited a spark of excitement and opened doors to new opportunities for community impact.
(L to R): Rotarian Jane Mack, Canden Marshall, son of Rotarian Derek Marshall, Rotarian Mike Rich, Rotaractor Carter Darger, Rotaractor from Congo Louyoko Christ, Rotaractor Stephan Atkinson and Rotarian Danny Bentley are serving breakfast
Furthermore, the presence of fellow UVU volunteers added a sense of familiarity and camaraderie to the event. It was wonderful to see Carter Darger, Louyoko Christ, and Hailey Olsen, passionate students from UVU, dedicating their time and efforts to the cause. Their commitment to service and their willingness to contribute exemplify the spirit of student engagement and community involvement that we strive to foster.
Social Media Link; https://www.instagram.com/reel/CtcfcPvs6kd/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D
(L to R): Rotarian Clark Merkley, Rotarian Roger Lewis and former Orem City Mayor Brunst
The event was graced by the presence of Roger Lewis, the oldest member of the Orem-Lindon Rotary Club. It was a privilege to have him attend and witness the dedication and passion of the volunteers, both young and old, as we worked together to create a memorable experience for all.
UVU student Stephan Atkinson with Judy Keller
During a lull in the event, I had a wonderful moment chatting with Miss Keller, reflecting on various former UIMF activities. We exchanged stories and memories, and I took the opportunity to express my profound gratitude for her and her family's contribution to the SEL model. Their support has been instrumental in shaping the lives of many students and fostering a culture of empowerment and learning.
Together, all of us successfully raised over $1765 for the project “Coats for kids” to support students at elementary schools in Orem city. Part of those funds will play a vital role in advocating for mountain women and children, both locally and globally, at the UN's Commission on the Status of Women in March 2024. It was truly inspiring to witness the collective effort and generosity of the attendees as they contributed to this important cause.
Overall, the Summerfest all-you-can-eat Breakfast Fundraiser was a resounding success, thanks to the collective efforts and collaboration of numerous individuals and organizations. It was an honor to work alongside such dedicated and passionate individuals who share a common vision of making a positive impact on our community. The experience reinforced my belief in the power of service and student engagement, and it ignited a renewed sense of commitment to serving the local and global community. I eagerly look forward to future collaborations with the Orem-Lindon Rotary Club, UIMF, and the Foreign Affairs Club, as we continue to create meaningful change together.
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MEDIA ABOUT PANCAKE BREAKFAST
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Utah District Rotary Newsletter
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STUDENT REFLECTIVE ESSAYS
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23-07-22-Carter B. Darger - Pancakes for Orem-Fest - UVU Students at Rotary Club Fundraiser
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