Tabitha’s Way Local Food Pantry has been named a recipient of the 2025 Governor’s Spirit of Service Award, a prestigious honor recognizing exceptional volunteerism and community service across the state of Utah. Selected from more than 100 nominations, Tabitha’s Way was recognized as a shining example of compassion, leadership, and commitment to building stronger communities, and as a demonstration of what can happen when compassionate neighbors help neighbors.
During an awards ceremony held at the Utah State Capitol, Governor Spencer Cox and Lt. Governor Deidre Henderson presented the award to Tabitha’s Way, praising the organization’s tireless efforts to address food insecurity and uplift vulnerable families throughout Utah County and beyond.
“This recognition reflects not just our work, but the spirit of service and community that defines Utah,” said Wendy Osborne, Executive Director of Tabitha’s Way, during the ceremony.”
Key accomplishments from the past year include:
Mobilizing 7,770 volunteers who served over 30,000 hours
Providing over 9 million nutritious meals to our neighbors in need.
Expanding operations with additional pantry locations in Spanish Fork, Pleasant Grove, and Saratoga Springs.
Launching a mobile pantry to reach underserved and rural communities.
Partnering with local governments, nonprofits, and faith groups to create “No Hunger Zones”—areas where food insecurity is proactively addressed rather than temporarily treated.
“This award is not just about us,” Osborne said. “It belongs to our volunteers, our donors, our partners, and the families we serve. As a thank you to our volunteers and donors, Tabitha’s Way will be celebrating and expressing gratitude for their contributions and continued support through the month of September, because it is your spirit of service that carries us forward.”
Tabitha’s Way also expressed gratitude to Governor Cox and Lt. Governor Henderson for fostering a culture of recognition around service and for highlighting the importance of community-driven solutions.
As Utah continues to lead the nation in volunteerism, Tabitha’s Way hopes this recognition inspires others to serve, to give, and to believe in the power of neighbors helping neighbors.
About Tabitha’s Way Local Food Pantry:
Tabitha’s Way Local Food Pantry was founded in 2010, inspired by the biblical story of Tabitha, a woman known for her charitable works. The pantry offers temporary food assistance to individuals and families, promoting dignity and self-reliance.
