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Layton Hills Mall partners with Blue Star Families to honor 'Month of the Military Child' Posted 4:26 PM, Apr 12, 2026 LAYTON, Utah - The Layton Hills Mall opened its doors early Sunday morning to host a special event with the nonprofit Blue Star Families, offering a gesture of appreciation to local military families. It's in honor of the Military Child Appreciation Month. "We just wanted to give back to the community and say thank you," said Glady Larsen, the marketing and community engagement director for the mall. They served breakfast, had games, and guests could walk through the aquarium inside the mall. For Amy Farfan, whose husband serves in the Air Force, community events like this are a vital support system. "For us to always have things to do around, and it's very helpful, especially when your loved ones are away," said Farfan. Her husband has been deployed for six months and recently had his tour extended. Despite the challenges, Farfan, who grew up in a military family, said she is proud of the life they lead. Attendees also acknowledged the broader anxieties faced by military families, especially with service members currently deployed. "Right now, they're going through a really tough situation," said Sandra Vargas, another attendee. "It's very unfortunate what's happening to those who have someone deployed." Both women encouraged those who want to show support, saying it's best to check in on people who have loved ones serving overseas. "There are so many people that don't look for help," said Farfan. Vargas added that a simple conversation can make a difference. "Just talking to them. Checking up on them, making sure they're okay," she said. Farfan said finding ways to connect and stay positive is key. "You have to find these little ways to help your kids," she said. "There is so much to be thankful for." Recent Northern Utah Stories

America250 and nonprofit partners mobilize nationwide for National Volunteer Month. Coast-to-Coast service initiatives highlight growing momentum behind America Gives ahead of nation's 250th Anniversary. WASHINGTON, D.C. - April 2, 2026 - America250, the national, nonpartisan organization charged by Congress to lead celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, today announced a nationwide activation of its nonprofit partners in recognition of National Volunteer Month this April. Through a wide range of service initiatives, partners are mobilizing volunteers, strengthening communities, and accelerating momentum toward America250's goal of making 2026 the largest year of service in American history. "National Volunteer Month is a powerful reminder that service is one of the most enduring ways Americans connect with one another and give back to their communities," said Rosie Rios, Chair of America250. "Our nonprofit partners are leading the way this April, creating opportunities for millions of Americans to take part in meaningful service as we approach our nation's 250th anniversary." Building on the success of America Gives, which has already inspired millions of volunteer hours nationwide, National Volunteer Month represents a key milestone in scaling participation and deepening community impact across the country. Throughout April, America250 partners are hosting events, launching campaigns, and expanding volunteer opportunities designed to engage Americans of all backgrounds. Nonprofit partners activating nationwide. America250's growing network of nonprofit partners is playing a central role in bringing National Volunteer Month to life. From community revitalization projects to food security initiatives and youth engagement programs, these organizations are driving impact at the local and national levels. Below are a few of the America250 nonprofit partners leading National Volunteer Month efforts: * 9/11 Day is mobilizing the largest single day of service in U.S. history for the 25th anniversary in 2026. Grant applications are now open across multiple categories to support service activities nationwide, with toolkits and other engagement resources launching in May for organizations and individuals interested in taking part. * Thousands of American Legion Family members are engaging in community service projects as part of its USA 250 Challenge, an initiative to commit to 250 acts of fitness, wellness and/or service before July 4. * The Arbor Day Foundation is planting 1 million trees in front yards, backyards, and neighborhood parks in its American cities this spring alongside its supporters, planting partners and local volunteers. * Rooted in the belief that no one should go hungry, chapters of The Arc are bridging the gap to food insecurity by partnering with local food organizations to deliver food and nutrition to those in their communities who need it the most. * Blue Star Families is launching a comprehensive volunteer program with a dynamic platform designed to connect passionate individuals with meaningful, mission-driven opportunities to serve military and veteran communities across the nation. This centralized hub makes it easier than ever for volunteers to turn intention into sustained, tangible impact. * Boys & Girls Clubs of America, in partnership with leading corporations, will advance a national volunteer strategy that mobilizes service in support of youth nationwide, strengthening communities and expanding opportunities for meaningful engagement. * There are nearly 1,800 severely injured post 9/11 Veterans waiting for adapted housing that meets their needs. Homes For Its Troops is committed to providing mortgage-free, specially adapted custom homes to these brave service members who answered its nation's call. This April and beyond, they invite Americans to volunteer at their build events and honor its nation's 250th birthday by serving those who have sacrificed so much. * Honor Flight Network is dedicated to honoring America's Veterans for all of their sacrifices and service by providing them an Honor Flight to Washington, DC to visit their memorials free of charge as a small token of appreciation. With 135 Hubs located across the country, there are more than 300 Honor Flight trips planned for 2026. * This April, Humane World for Animals celebrates its dedicated volunteers, who help the organization tackle the root causes of animal cruelty and suffering to create a better world for all animals worldwide. * Idealist is supporting 53 community meet-ups taking place on Idealist Day 4/4 to encourage local communities to gather, volunteer with local organizations, and organize positive community actions. * Through America Gives, the Junior League is activating its 125-year legacy across nearly 300 communities with 100,000 members - bringing local action, national scale and research on women's mental load and well-being to this moment. * In April, JustServe will champion Global Youth Service Day and America250 by connecting more youth to meaningful service, with an aim to inspire 250,000 new JustServe volunteers to serve in 2,500 communities and recognize outstanding volunteers across America. * Keep America Beautiful is teaming up with Good Neighbor Day America for a #Kindness250 Challenge. Participation is simple: pick up 25 pieces of litter in your neighborhood, share a photo of your impact on social media, and tag @keepamericabeautiful and @goodneighboramerica. * WishMakers Wanted is Make-A-Wish's rallying cry to meet an urgent need - mobilizing anyone who takes action for wish kids, because more than 50 WishMakers are essential to make each wish possible. * The National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) is bringing Environmental Education Week (April 20-24) to life with free activities that get educators, families, and kids outside, exploring nature, and learning how to care for it. * Beginning in April, Its Community Salutes, USA, will host ceremonies in over 60 cities recognizing thousands of high school seniors from the Class of 2026 enlisting in military service. * Points of Light will launch a National Volunteer Strategy to mark the 250th anniversary of its nation and advance its goal of doubling volunteering in the U.S. by 2035. * In celebration of National Rebuilding Month, Rebuilding Together is uniting volunteers and partners to revitalize communities and provide essential home modifications for veterans, older adults, and families in need. * SciStarter is working toward a shared goal of 2.50 Million Acts of Science, marking America's 250th Birthday through collective discovery, service, and impact. * This April, Scouts across the nation will unite in the Scouting for Clean Waterways project, honoring America's 250th Birthday with a month of service dedicated to protecting and preserving its nation's treasured waterways. This effort is part of many Scouting America activations throughout the year that will help them deliver 8 Million hours of service in support of America Gives. * Taproot Foundation is hosting its first-ever volunteer networking event on Tuesday, April 21, creating a space for volunteers who have similar skills to learn from and support each other as they engage in pro bono service for their communities. * The Trust for the National Mall and the National Park Service have launched the National Mall MALLSTAR Volunteer program providing special training and recognition and inspiring volunteers to complete 250 hours of service welcoming visitors on America's Front Yard during America's 250th year. * This April, Tunnel to Towers is preparing to host a barbecue-style celebration in honor of the nation's 250th Anniversary, where an estimated 1,000 sailors will gather at Fort Wadsworth, Staten Island on July 7th, 2026, for an afternoon of local entertainment, a 9/11 Never Forget mobile exhibit, and Navy vessels docked along the Staten Island waterfront. * Wound Warrior Project(R) employees nationwide will join the initiative and volunteer on May 21 with warriors and supporters at service projects throughout their local communities. Americans can join the National Volunteer Month charge by logging their service hours at America250.org/America-Gives. Participants can also discover local opportunities, share stories and photos, and encourage others to get involved in this historic moment of service. About America250. America250's mission is to celebrate and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, marking America's Semiquincentennial. America250 Foundation, Inc. aim to inspire its fellow Americans to reflect on its past, strengthen its love of country, and renew its commitment to the ideals of democracy through programs that educate, engage, and unite America250 Foundation, Inc. as a nation. America250 will foster shared experiences that spark imagination, showcase the rich tapestry of its American stories, inspire service in its communities, honor the enduring strength, and celebrate the resilience of the United States of America.