Volunteer

Utah State Developmental Center

Thank you for your interest in serving at the Utah State Developmental Center. We are dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities to lead fulfilling, joyful lives. While our staff provides essential care, our volunteers provide the "extra" - the unique friendships, talents, and experiences that make our community truly thrive. Ready to get started?

Contact our Volunteer Coordinator at [email protected].

Want to learn more about our regularly scheduled activities?  Check out our calendar below to explore what we do and find out how you can sign up!

View Calendar of Events (PDF)

Individual Impact (Solo Volunteering)

Volunteering individually offers the flexibility to serve on your own schedule while focusing on your unique strengths.

  • Share your talents:  Play music, read stories, or lead a craft.
  • Be a friend:  Visit with residents or bring a certified therapy animal.
  • Design your own:  Have a special skill?  Let's create a custom volunteer role for you!
  • Note:  All volunteers must be 14 years of age or older to work directly with our residents. 
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Group Service Projects

We love hosting groups!  Whether you are a church group, a business, or a club, you can make a huge difference together. 

  • Perform musical sets or theater pieces.
  • Host holiday parties, themed socials, or lawn games.
  • Help with grounds beautification and outdoor gardening projects.
  • Note:  All volunteers must be 14 years of age or older to work directly with our residents. 
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Student Volunteers

Fulfill your service hours in a meaningful environment!  Students can partner with our recreation therapy department to gain hands-on experience while giving back to the community.

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Become a "USDC Regular" 

Want to make a long-term difference?  Our recurring volunteers are the heart of our program.  By committing to a regular schedule, you build lasting bonds with our residents.  Contact our volunteer coordinator to learn about the "Regular" onboarding process!

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Eagle Scout Projects

We are honored to host Scouts working toward their Eagle rank.  If you are looking for a project that leaves a lasting legacy at USDC, please reach out to discuss current facility needs by email at [email protected] to schedule a preliminary interview.  The USDC works closely with the Crossroads of the West Council and will honor their expectations of leadership, planning, and volunteer involvement.

Requirements:

  • Propose or ask for project ideas from the volunteer coordinator during the preliminary interview.
  • Fill out the Eagle Scout Project Proposal and submit it to the volunteer coordinator to be signed. 
  • Parent support and knowledge of the project with the Scout assuming leadership capacity is required.
  • Communicate with the volunteer coordinator and USDC staff before, during, and after the project to assure optimal project results.
  • Participate in an exit interview with the volunteer coordinator to have the Eagle Scout Service Project Report signed.
  • Submit a copy of your Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook along with other project related materials such as:  flyers, inventory list, pictures, and other materials that document your project. 

Project Ideas:

  • Conservation/landscaping projects
  • Beautification projects
  • Painting/restoration projects
  • Suggest an idea of your own choosing
  • Complete a special needs project
  • Library space project
  • Construction related project
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FAQ: 

  • Can I come whenever I want:  Appointments are required for volunteers.  We have a variety of activities that are pre-scheduled, and we can also work with you to find a time for you to visit.  
  • Can I bring people under the age of 14:  Unfortunately, no.  We strive to provide a safe and welcoming environment for our volunteers, and to minimize risk, no children or infants are allowed in our volunteer programs.
  • What do I need to wear:  Closed toed shoes are a must.  Please dress appropriately, and be aware that most volunteer opportunities do involve pushing wheelchairs, bending, and other movement.
  • What if I don't know what I want to do:  We recommend that you sign up to volunteer during our Wednesday dances first.  These are events that allow you to simply meet and interact with individuals, without having to work on a specific activity.
  • Can I take photos for my social media:  No.  This is our residents home, and we also need to maintain the privacy standards of HIPAA.  Photos and videos that include our residents are not permitted. 

 

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