CONTRIBUTED CONTENT — Utah, often referred to as the “Beehive State,” is more than just its stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. It’s a place where community values and volunteerism flourish.

Volunteers gather donations from the Warm Bodies, Warm Souls drive, location and date not specified | Photo courtesy of Bank of Utah, St. George News / Cedar City News

In a recent ranking, Utah earned the title of the No. 1 state for volunteer service in the United States. This is a testament to the spirit of giving that pervades the state. And Bank of Utah’s 11th annual Warm Bodies, Warm Souls clothing drive stands as a shining example of this collective goodwill.

Bank of Utah started the Warm Bodies, Warm Souls coat drive in 2011, and Arctic Circle Restaurants and their foundation, Arctic Cares, joined in 2014, which broadened the campaign through their 38 locations and their in-store and direct mail advertising.

And now, for the fifth year, Red Hanger has also played a vital role in the effort. Not only did they offer 12 dropoff locations, but they also generously used their trucks to deliver donation bins to many locations and pick them up at the end of the campaign. 

As representatives of Utah’s generous business community, we have a wonderful opportunity to give back with efforts like Warm Bodies, Warm Souls. And, it really warms our hearts to see how our customers and friends have generously joined us in collecting warm clothes for people who are struggling to cover the basics for their families during the coldest time of the year. 

As a result, we ended up delivering more than 230 bags and barrels full of warm clothing to 12 charities in Utah! 

Charities receive donations from the Warm Bodies, Warm Souls drive, location and date not specified | Photo courtesy of Bank of Utah, St. George News / Cedar City News

And who else made it happen? You did! We are very appreciative of those who got behind Warm Bodies, Warm Souls and the many, many people who contributed. Several community organizations collected items and brought them to our banks. They really understood the spirit of giving during the holidays.

And, we’d also like to say thank you to our charitable partners for all the good they do in communities throughout Utah. They include: the Joyce Hansen Hall Food Bank and The Lantern House in Ogden, the Cache Community Food Pantry in Logan, the Tremonton Community Pantry, the Family Support Center in Brigham City, Community Action Services and Food Bank in Orem, Crossroads Urban Center and The Road Home in Salt Lake City, the Bountiful Community Pantry and the Hope Pregnancy Center in St. George.

Utah is a shining example of volunteerism and community spirit. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate, ensuring that they too can experience warmth, comfort and dignity during challenging times.

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