2025 Tree Descriptions









Recipient: Vernal Youth Football
Donated By: Vernal Youth Football
TAILGATE CHRISTMAS
Vernal Youth Football League is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing tackle football for youth in grades 2–8. Our mission is to teach teamwork, sportsmanship, and confidence through safe, structured play. Each season, we award 10–15 player scholarships to help players who might not otherwise be able to participate. Funds raised through Trees for Charity will be used to purchase new helmets, pads, and uniforms, and to continue supporting scholarship opportunities for local kids. Your generosity helps keep our athletes safe, our program thriving, and our community united under the Friday Night Lights.
#1
Recipient: Marcel Bourque
Donated By: Dan's Tire Service and Auto Tech of Vernal
Sponsored By: Braxten Nielson and Josh Frost
FEAR NOT FOR I AM WITH YOU
Marcel Bourque is a 34-year-old loving husband and father of two beautiful children. Marcel has spent his life serving others through firefighting, youth sports, and hard work in the oil field. In November 2023, Marcel was diagnosed with Stage 4 Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (CcRCC), a form of kidney cancer that had already spread to his lungs. In June 2025, his scans revealed internal leaking caused by radiation and chemotherapy which required surgery, further spreading the cancer to his liver, lungs, and kidney, and has enlarged his lymph nodes. His care team recently suggested hospice care so that he could focus on comfort and quality of life — but Marcel, true to his spirit, kindly declined. Though cancer has taken much from him, it has not taken his will to fight. His resilience and faith in God shine through every day, setting an example for everyone around him — a reminder that even in the hardest moments, you can still rise and show up.
#2
Recipient: Josh Allred and family
Donated By: Tara Webb
Sponsored By: Marisa Bernard and Tony Bernard
SCARING UP SOME HOPE
In May 2025, Josh Allred was diagnosed with necrotizing pancreatitis and was life flighted for medical treatments, leading to 4 months in the hospital, multiple surgeries, 4 codes, and 9 blood transfusions. Unable to work, his family of six also lost their home. They now face overwhelming challenges and need our support and prayers.
#3
Recipient: Nikki Parkes
Donated By: Marisa Bernard
A WICKED CHRISTMAS
On September 28, 2025, Dustin Thompson and Nikki Parkes were involved in a horrific motorcycle accident. After being life-flighted, Dustin sadly passed away from his injuries. This was Nikki’s first and only motorcycle ride. She has a long recovery ahead after paramedics had to cut her out of a barbed wire fence just to get her to the hospital. Nikki sustained a broken leg and arm, a shattered knee, and bleeding on the brain. This family of seven children, ages 6 to 17, already lost a parent in 2020. They need all the help, support, and prayers they can get. Thank you.
#4
Recipient: Nia Qoro
Donated By: Stealth Management and Lesha Coltharp
CHRISTMAS WITH CHRIST
This year our beloved Semi Qoro will be spending Christmas with Christ. If Semi was still here, he would start with “ALOHA.” Semi was the love and light of Nia and her 6 kids' world. On August 30th Semi suddenly passed away from a heart attack after a musical performance. Semi was truly a friend and lover of all people. Everyone was his brother/sister whether in life or the gospel. Semi took time to see people and listen to others. His love for his savior Jesus Christ, his family and friends, and his Polynesian culture will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come. With Semi’s sudden passing it leaves Nia, his beloved wife, to raise and care for their 6 children, ages 4 to 20. The funds raised from this tree will help with the day to day expenses of raising 6 active kids and helping them find a little normal in this devastating time. Everything from food to house payments, dance lessons and sports fees, monetary needs for raising a large family. The Qoro’s love Vernal and the amazing community we have. Semi and Nia shared their love for music and dance at many local events and church services. Let’s show Nia and her kids some “ALOHA” love and friendship from Vernal, Utah.
#5
Recipient: Tyrel Snow
Donated By: Wright Orthodontics
A HEREFORD HOLIDAY
In January Tyrel Snow was diagnosed with two stage 3 rare/aggressive cancers. Multiple Myeloma and Plasma Cell Leukemia. He began chemotherapy immediately. In August, he underwent a stem cell/bone marrow transplant at Huntsman Cancer Institute using his own donor stem cells. He needs chemotherapy for the rest of his life. The Snow family knows they aren't walking alone and everything is in Gods hands. The funds collected from this tree will help relieve financial stress from costs including treatment, transportation and lodging, as well as daily living expenses like housing and utilities.
#6
Recipient: Uintah Basin Technical College Foundation
Donated By: Uintah Basin Technical College Foundation
FATHER CHRISTMAS
Education Changes Generations
Break Barriers: Many students face financial challenges that hinder their ability to pursue or complete their education. Scholarships and financial aid play a vital role in breaking down these barriers, ensuring that deserving students at UBTech can access and benefit from our programs.
Transform Lives: Your support has the power to change lives. By providing students with the resources they need, you're not only helping them succeed academically but also creating a lasting impact on their families. Scholarships ease the financial burden, allowing students to focus fully on their education.
Build a Stronger Community: Scholarships empower students to gain valuable skills that they will carry into the workforce. You can help students at UBTech become career-ready and equipped to contribute positively to our communities.
Thank you for supporting UBTech, The Uintah Basin’s College!
#7
Recipient: Reach Out and Connect
Donated By: Reach Out and Connect
SMURF-TACULAR CHRISTMAS
Reach Out and Connect is a grassroots rural charity helping seniors, single parents, families, and individuals with basic needs. Founded by one woman giving from her own pocket, it grew to two, and now seven anonymous “secret givers” carry on the mission. Their projects range from building ramps and supplying groceries to property cleanup, painting, plumbing, or furniture donations—no need is too small or too large. Typically, they complete 3–4 projects annually, but unspoken pleas are increasing, and additional funds are now being sought to expand their efforts. At its heart, Reach Out and Connect believes generosity inspires more generosity. Every recipient is encouraged to find a way to give back, while their privacy and dignity are fully respected.
#8
Recipient: High Desert Center for the Arts
Donated By: Crusaders for Kindness
A TREE FOR TOMORROW
At the heart of the High Desert Center for the Arts is a dream—a dream to bring a world-class arts and entertainment center to the Vernal area. A space where the community can gather year-round to celebrate creativity, culture, and connection. This center will be more than a building—it will be a vibrant home for artists, performers, and audiences alike. It will provide professional opportunities for those in the arts while offering enriching experiences for people of all ages. The High Desert Center for the Arts will be a place for everyone—a hub that fosters community partnerships and engagement. Further, the center will operate as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, fueled by generosity, vision, and heart. The arts have the power to heal, uplift, and unite. In planting the seeds of creativity today, we are growing a tree for tomorrow—a living legacy that will offer shade, inspiration, and opportunity to generations yet to come.
#9
Recipient: Daughters of Utah Pioneers Uintah Company
Donated By: Rafter Three Bars Inc
RUFFLES AND BOWS
The motto of Daughters of Utah Pioneers is "Daughters of the Future, Keepers of the Past." We are a free museum that offers unique, one of a kind, artifacts, teaching opportunities for school children, summer activities, and private tours. We share artifacts that came with the pioneers and artifacts from our community. We strive to keep our museum free through donations and the sale of our tree.
#10
Recipient: American Legion Post 11
Donated By: Brian Snow
Sponsored By: Brian and Soni Snow, and Steve and Staci Breakfield
BE THE ONE - BE THE LIGHT
The No. 1 issue facing the veteran community is suicide. After losing some of our own local vets this year, the mission of The American Legion's Be The One initiative is to reduce the rate of veteran suicide. We're actively working on lessening the stigma associated with mental health treatment and empowering everyone to take appropriate action when a veteran or service member may be at risk – one life at a time. Whether you're a veteran or the friend or family-member of a veteran, you can Be The One TO ACT, TO CALL, TO SERVE, TO SAVE. American Legion Post 11 has been a post since 1919. It is a nonprofit organization of U.S. war veterans. They provide many services of support to Troops and family. They sponsor many local activities: a Baseball Team, Boys State, Scholarships, Operation Comfort Warriors. They provide all flags for Memorial Day, Veterans Day and Honor Guard, Color Guard in parades and Military Funeral Honors. American Legion Post 11 is A Community of Veterans serving Veterans, Military and their families.
#11
Recipient: Hannah, August, Oakley, and Lilliahna Batty
Donated By: Kean Photo and Video
Sponsored By: Donovan (son-in-law), Jessica (daughter), and Kolson (grandson) Anderson
WINTER BLOOM
As always, in memory of our dad and grandpa, Kevin Orr.
On March 11, 2025, Kirk Batty passed away from a genetic liver disorder that turned into sclerosis of the liver and kidney failure.
He leaves behind his wife Hannah and their 3 young daughters, August, Oakley and Lilliahna. Kirks girls were his world. Money raised will help with every day living expenses.
#12
Recipient: SSGT Darin Taylor Hoover Memorial
Donated By: Jitney Bird
Sponsored By: Adara Aesthetics
THE SEMPER FIDELIS BIRCHWOOD
The SSgt Taylor Hoover Memorial Fund honors the legacy of Marine Staff Sergeant Taylor Hoover by investing in education and veteran support. The fund provides scholarships to students who demonstrate leadership, integrity, and a commitment to service, reflecting the values Taylor upheld throughout his life. In addition, the fund supports the training and placement of K9s with veterans, offering companionship, support, and renewed purpose to those who have served our nation. Through these initiatives, the fund ensures that Taylor’s dedication to country and community continues to inspire and make a lasting impact.
#13
Recipient: Teako Monson
Donated By: Signature Cares Foundation
AWAY IN A MANGER
Teako Monson is the President of our local American Legion Auxiliary and a dedicated advocate for military and veteran families. She spends countless hours serving those who have served our country. This year, Teako took her commitment further by creating a food pantry specifically for military and veteran families, addressing a crucial need in our community. To date, the pantry has distributed over 2,000 pounds of food. Despite being a single amputee living alone and facing significant health and financial challenges, Teako has never let these hardships stop her from giving back. She continues to lead and serve with incredible dedication and heart. We believe Teako is truly deserving of support and recognition from the community she selflessly serves. It would be a blessing for her to receive some of the care she so freely gives to others.
#14
Recipient: Uintah Basin Area Veterans
Donated By: Uintah Basin Area Veterans
PATRIOTIC TREE
Uintah Basin Area Veterans (UBAV) is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting local veterans and their families right here in the Uintah Basin. Through the Charitable Friends of Ashley Valley 501(c)(3), UBAV provides meals, gifts, school supplies, toys, clothing, gas cards, and fresh food to veterans in need. Our mission is to ease the burden of financial struggles, prevent veteran suicide, and create a strong sense of connection within our community. We work closely with the local armory to reach dozens—often hundreds—of veterans and their families, not just one. From helping veterans transition back into civilian life to ensuring families have what they need during the holidays, we are here every step of the way. Proceeds from this tree will primarily support UBAV’s veteran-only food pantry, offering fresh meat, fruits, and vegetables through local grocery certificates. Join us in honoring and supporting the men and women who defend and defended our country.
#15
Recipient: Charlee Jean Perry
Donated By: Soni Snow
Sponsored By: Brian, Soni, and BriLee Snow
O SWEET CHARLEE
Born at just 35 weeks at the U of U, Charlee Perry surprised her family and medical team with no NICU time or intervention required. At two weeks old, Charlee had multiple episodes where she stopped breathing. She was rushed to the ER and later life flighted to Primary Children's where it was discovered that she has two holes in her heart: a Ventricular Septal Defect and a Parut Foramen Ovale that will require open heart surgery. Until then, Charlee will be on a daily LASIKs to help with the fluid surrounding her heart and lungs. Charlee will have multiple visits with the cardiologist at Primary Children's and weekly to biweekly appointments with her primary care physician to ensure that she is growing and thriving until surgery time. She is our little heart warrior.
#16
Recipient: Samantha Wheeler
Donated By: Liberty Energy
FUN OLD FASHIONED FAMILY CHRISTMAS
Two combat veterans found love amidst the chaos of Iraq. He went on to serve 21 years in the Marine Corps, enduring three tours and surviving an IED blast that earned him the Purple Heart. Though war left invisible scars, he built a life in Vernal with his beloved wife, Samantha, of 18 years, filling their home with love and laughter. A devoted father to Justice, Calin, and Liberty, and proud grandfather to Sage, he was deeply cherished by all who knew him. Beyond service, he embraced life—riding his motorcycle on open roads, camping under starry skies, searching the heavens for wonder, and laughing through sci-fi movies with his unforgettable Arnold Schwarzenegger impressions. He poured his heart into the parks, creating spaces where families could gather and play. On August 3, 2025, the battles within claimed him, but his memory endures: a country boy at heart, a warrior by duty, and a man defined by love.
#17
Recipient: Soulful Strides Sanctuary
Donated By: Soulful Strides Sanctuary
Sponsored By: TJ Electric, Vernal Floral, Empowered Christians, Howcroft Field Services
MOUNTAINS OF HOPE, STRIDES OF JOY
Soulful Strides Sanctuary blends the healing power of horses with faith and love to bring hope, healing, and renewal to those struggling with depression, trauma, addiction, and grief. Funds raised through Trees for Charity will support our 3-day immersive equine therapy sessions for tweens, teens, and adults. Program costs include arena and horse leasing, therapeutic teams, insurance fees, and scholarships for individuals and families who could not otherwise afford care. Thanks to last year’s support, we provided over 50 hours of equine therapy to community members. This year, we aim to double that impact and are partnering with addiction recovery centers in Vernal to reach even more individuals in need.
#18
Recipient: Uintah Schools Foundation
Donated By: Davis Food and Drug
WINTER ELEGANCE
The Uintah Schools Foundation is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization that raises money to support and enhance the education of students in the Uintah School District. Each year they donate thousands of dollars to the teachers in the school district to fund special projects such as classroom libraries, music supplies, art supplies, testing systems, sound systems, as well as everyday classroom supplies. They also provide a clearinghouse which carries thousands of free supplies for any teacher in the district.
#19
Recipient: Marisa Mills
Donated By: Sheri Allen
Sponsored By: Sheri Allen Family
MARISA'S GRACE
My dear friend Marisa has recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. She is facing an incredibly hard journey ahead, with a double mastectomy, radiation, and—God willing—reconstructive surgery. Through it all, she continues to show the same strength, kindness, and unwavering faith that she has always lived by.
Marisa is truly one of the sweetest and most spiritual people I know. She would give anything and do anything for anyone in need without hesitation. She has a heart that shines with love for others and for Jesus. Easter has always been her favorite holiday because of the deep meaning behind it—hope, renewal, and the promise of life through Christ.
As her husband is also sick, Marisa is carrying a heavy burden as the only breadwinner, but she faces it all with grace and courage. I admire her so much and feel blessed to call her my friend.
#20
Recipient: Sutton Jay Kennington/Tyler and Rylee Kennington
Donated By: B&D RV and Friends for Life friend group
WALKING IN A WOODLAND WONDERLAND
Little Sutton Jay Kennington came into this world way too early at 26 weeks on August 18th weighing only 1lb. 3 oz. Her parents are Tyler and Rylee Kennington, and has a sister named Brexleigh.
Her mom was life flighted to Utah Valley Hospital in Provo with severe preeclampsia. They found out deeply concerning results. Due to little to no amniotic fluid she underwent an emergency c-section.
Sutton is a fighter with remarkable spirit. Her journey is just beginning with many more weeks in the NICU. This tiny fighter has already shown extraordinary resilience.
#21
Recipient: Quentien's Warriors
Donated By: Quentien's Warriors
HOT WHEELS
We are Quintien's Warriors. Our sweet son Quintien passed away way to soon at a young age of 16 Months old. We were devastated at his loss, going through all emotions was hard. When we got to a place where we wanted to get a headstone we were told that we couldn't order until it was paid in full. We started Quintien's Warriors to help families with funds towards their child's headstone in hopes to help with the grieving process, as we know finances are not something we want to have to stress about. We are greatful that we have this amazing community come together so we can help multiple families a year with their child's headstone. Thank you for enjoying our beautiful Tree!!
#22
Recipient: Thompsen House of Hope
Donated By: Rocky Mountain Custom Coatings
THE BLESSING...
The Thomspen House of Hope is a duly licensed Men's Addiction Recovery Residence that is an interfaith group of individuals from our communities. These dedicated individuals observed that nearly 30% of all households in the Uintah Basin have been affected by drug or alcohol abuse. Armed with this statistic, the interfaith group begin renovation on an abandoned school house to provide the entire Uintah Basin and its residents with a purpose of providing a place of assistance, including living quarters in a safe, substance-free environment. Thompson House of Hope has been actively admitting and helping individual residents since 2019. They give their residents hope of becoming free from addiction and realizing their life is worth saving.
#23
Recipient: Jessica Barmore
Donated By: Stephanie Smith
MIRACLES
Rick and I began our life together in 2003 in Riverton, Utah. After moving to California, Rick was diagnosed with valley fever and had lung surgery. Despite this, his spirit stayed strong, and we married soon after. In 2006, while I was six months pregnant, Rick had a serious motorcycle accident but recovered in time to see our son, Carson, born. The following years involved many surgeries and setbacks. Returning to Utah, Rick’s health worsened, and he was placed on the lung transplant list. Three and a half years ago, he received a life-saving transplant—a moment we’ll always cherish. Though he recovered, Rick faced ongoing health struggles. After contracting COVID in late 2023, his condition declined. He was hospitalized again in August 2025, and in September, Rick passed away due to transplant rejection and organ failure. As the family’s main provider, she is doing her best to support them through this difficult time.
#24
Recipient: Active Re-Entry
Donated By: JCN Trucking
CLASSIC CHRISTMAS
Active Re-Entry is a community - based, 501(c) (3), private, nonprofit, independent living center that provides a wide variety of services to individuals with disabilities in seven counties in Eastern Utah. Active Re-Entry has offices in Uintah and Duchesne Counties. The agency aims to ensure that people with disabilities living in Eastern Utah can live independently and safely within their own homes and communities. All Services and programs provided by Active Re-Entry are offered free of charge. Active Re-Entry is committed to assisting individuals with disabilities in achieving or maintaining self-sufficient and productive lives. If selected to participate. The funds will be allocated in Uintah County to benefit consumers, in addition to being used to purchase durable medical equipment for the Loan Bank. The Loan Bank is available to all community members who need to borrow equipment for a short period, and individuals do not need to have permanent disability to qualify.
#25
Recipient: Simmons Realty Professional
Donated By: Travis Richens
OUR BROTHER KEEPER
Our dear friend Travis is in urgent need of a newer van for transportation.Over 20 years ago, Travis was paralyzed, and since leaving the hospital, he’s relied on the same van to stay mobile and connected to the world. He’s taken exceptional care of it over the years, doing everything possible to keep it running. But now, it’s simply reached the end of its life.
Travis is a wonderful person with a grateful heart. He never complains and always finds joy in the simple things. Having reliable transportation would allow him to continue experiencing life beyond the walls of his home. Help us support Travis in getting a new van your generosity can truly change his life.
#26
Recipient: Project Alley
Donated By: Backhoe Supremo
Sponsored By: Jeff and Danette Gerrard and Shea Hanberg (Touch of Grace Quilting)
MERRY CHRISTMAS YA'ALL
Project Alley is a not-for-profit corporation. Our mission is to provide a comprehensive recovery program for women struggling with addiction. Helping them transform into spiritually minded, productive, and service-oriented individuals while staying connected with their families, homes, workplaces, and communities. We aim to support women willing and ready to make positive changes, learn about their disease, and work towards a sincere recovery program that enables them to re-enter the community as productive and responsible individuals. “Out of the shadows into the light”.
#27
Recipient: Mila Harvey
Donated By: Finds, Treasures & More
Sponsored By: Mike and Loretta Karren
CHRISTMAS PAST
Mila was born on August 23, 2022, with a rare and complex congenital heart defect called Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS), meaning that the entire left side of her heart didn’t develop correctly, and her body must rely on the right side of their heart to do all the work.
At just three days old, she underwent her first open-heart surgery, and at 11 days old, her second. Mila was only 3 and ½ months old when the doctors decided to perform another major surgery. Recovery was long and difficult, but Mila fought through every challenge and began to thrive.
Then, in March 2025, after catching rhinovirus, Mila’s heart took a devastating turn. Despite the team’s best efforts, she was diagnosed with severe heart failure. On July 7, 2025, Mila was officially listed for a heart transplant.
On October 13th, Mila was admitted to Primary Children’s, where she will stay and receive continuous IV treatments until she receives her new heart. They have been told to anticipate at least a year in the hospital, with additional time after the transplant.
Through everything — countless surgeries, hospital stays, and challenges — Mila continues to amaze everyone who meets her. She is strong, sweet, brave, and full of light. Her journey is far from over, but she faces it with the same courage and grace that has carried her this far. Mila is truly our little heart warrior.
#28
Recipient: Christina Wright
Donated By: Carpets Plus Inc.
THE MAGICAL WORLD OF THE WRIGHT FAMILY
In July 2025, Joe Wright unexpectedly passed away from sudden unexplained complications, leaving behind his wife Christina and two children. Joe had a wealth of knowledge and filled his family’s life with magic. Because of his love for learning, he was able to be self-employed and follow his passions. He completed multiple UBTech programs and earned his bachelor’s degree in education. One of his latest accomplishments and joys in life was homeschooling his children. Christina is now navigating life as a widow and single parent, and becoming the sole provider for her family. Christina wants to continue homeschooling their kids and hopes to pass the legacy of Joe’s desire to obtain knowledge on to them. Christina chose the title "The Magic of the Wright Family" to honor Joe and what he loved. All proceeds will pay for the Wright family's financial responsibilities including medical bills. His magic will never be forgotten!
#29
Recipient: Thrive Life Project
Donated By: Thrive Life Project
Sponsored By: Arnold Family and Mathis Family
THRIVE, NOT JUST SURVIVE
Payton’s journey began with a cancer diagnosis that turned out life upside down. Through countless treatments and hospital stays, he showed incredible strength and resilience. In the midst of that difficult time, we were sinking. We couldn’t make the simplest decisions for the rest of our family like what to eat or how to entertain them. That need sparked the idea for Thrive Life—a way to help families like ours have access to nutritious, easy-to-prepare food and activity kits for the rest of the family. What started as a way to support Payton became a mission to help others thrive through life’s hardest moments. Tonight, we honor his courage and the hope that grew from his journey.
#30
Recipient: Heart of the Basin
Donated By: Century 21 Parker Property Management
A TREE OF WARMTH FOR THE HOMELESS
Our goal is to provide a warming center to individuals and families experiencing homelessness and hardship during the winter months. A warming center provides short-term relief from extreme cold, typically operating for a few hours or overnight during severe weather conditions. These centers are often low-barrier, with minimal or no entry requirements. The primary goal is to prevent cold-related injuries or death.
Warming centers save lives during severe winter weather, reduce strain on hospitals and other services, and demonstrate our community’s commitment to caring for our most vulnerable. Support ensures no one is left in the cold.
#31
Recipient: Utah Foster Care
Donated By: Manilla FFA
IT TAKES A VILLAGE
Our FFA chapter has been impacted by students who are or were in foster care. We want to give back to these families and students who have worked hard to overcome the hardships they have experienced. We’ve seen how the foster system has impacted children’s lives, and we want to help them. We know and believe in helping and giving back to the community and those in need. It really does take a village to make a difference. “Consider changing a child’s life today by donating or purchasing this tree.”
#32
Recipient: Basin Breasties
Donated By: Basin Breasties
RADIANT RESILIENCE
Our mission is to support women in the Uintah Basin who are living with, through, or beyond breast cancer by providing connection, education, emotional healing, and empowerment. We aim to create in-person support opportunities, wellness programs, and practical resources that address life during and after cancer treatment. All funds raised will stay in the Basin to benefit local survivors directly.Basin Breasties strengthens families and the community by supporting women who have gone through one of the most traumatic experiences of their lives. When a mother, sister, daughter, wife, or caregiver is supported, the whole family is impacted. Our events and services promote healing, mental health, connection, and empowerment — all of which build stronger communities. We also incorporate elements of the arts and creative expression through therapeutic journaling and art-based healing activities.
#33
Recipient: Ipson Family
Donated By: Caro Norton LLC and Nancy Thorlaksen
WINGS OF HOPE
This is not how our life was supposed to be. Living day to day, wondering what will come next. We had a beautiful life together, & we knew it.
Joe's passing has absolutely rocked me to the core. Some days I'm managing & other days I'm merely surviving. A rollercoaster of emotions doesn't even begin to describe it. 10 weeks. 10 weeks is all we had from the day we found out he had cancer to the day he passed away. The blink of an eye. It was 10 weeks of panic, doctor visits, tears, hospital stays, home IVs, prayers, prayers, & more prayers. It was 10 weeks of preparing, of having hard conversations. 10 weeks of seeing my beautiful strong husband fade away physically but soar spiritually.
We had our entire life planned out, & suddenly in that blink of an eye it vanished. Sixteen years is such a long time together, but in the eternities, it's nothing. I know Joe does not want me to shrink. Life is different now. - Libby
Let's help this family soar!
#34
Recipient: Mental Connection
Donated By: Uintah Basin Medical Center
Sponsored By: Uintah Basin Medical Center, Ashley Regional Medical Center, Northeastern Counseling Center, and TriCounty Health
MENTAL CONNECTION
Mental Connection is a collaborative initiative between Uintah Basin Healthcare, Ashley Regional Medical Center, Northeastern Counseling Center, and TriCounty Health, united in the mission to strengthen access to mental health care across our community. The TriCounty area faces suicide rates of 38.5 per 100,000, nearly double the Utah average of 20.9 and almost triple the national rate of 13.9. In a region driven by demanding industries like Oil & Gas, Construction, and Agriculture, the need for accessible mental health support has never been greater. MentalConnection.com was created to make it easier for individuals to find trusted providers and guided treatment all in one place. Proceeds from this Tree Charity Auction will help expand awareness and ensure no one faces their mental health journey alone.
#35
Recipient: Ladies of Vernal Elks
Donated By: Mason Duncan
Sponsored By: Mason Duncan, Texas Fueling
SERVICE IN LOVE
Ladies of Vernal Elks is a 501- c (3) auxiliary of the local Elks Lodge. Our ladies disbanded in 2012 due to lack of membership and have been reinstated since March of 2025. Our little auxiliary might be small in numbers but our hearts are full of doing great things and giving back to the community through charitable work. We plan on using the funds raised to help with the many charitable works we do such as helping families in hardship, domestic violence victims, Veterans, and helping our Little Warriors camp for kids of fallen military personnel.
#36
Recipient: American Legion Auxiliary
Donated By: American Legion Auxiliary
Sponsored By: Soni Snow
WE'VE BEEN BUSY BEES
The auxiliary serves the active military veterans and their families in the Basin. Service comes in many forms; The Girl's State program allows High School Juniors to experience the political process and earn 3 college credits. In 2025, the Auxiliary opened a military and veteran food pantry that has helped dozend of families and distributed upwards of 4,500 pounds of food. We look forward to even more service in 2026!
#37
Recipient: White House Academy
Donated By: Krick Talk
WHITE HOUSE ACADEMY COZY CHRISTMAS
Our children deserve better!
White House Academy is a private Christian school that provides a safe place to learn. Our curriculum is designed to teach each student strong Christian morals wrapped in patriotism. Unlike the public school agenda, our mission is to raise up new generations who love America, who contribute to society and who are built on the same principles of our founding fathers; hard work, grit and trusting in God.
Private Schools like White House Academy are primarily responsible to find their own funding with little to no government assistance. All proceeds will be used to cover operational expenses, teacher salaries and tuition for new students. Help make Vernal Great Again!
#38
Recipient: Destiny Rollins
Donated By: Uintah High Student Council
GET DESTINY'S PINK ON
This tree is more than decoration—it’s a symbol of hope and community. It stands for a young mother bravely fighting cancer, reminding us that even in life’s hardest moments, love and support can help light the way.
It’s not just about giving money; it’s about giving hope. This tree grows with every act of generosity, shining as a testament to courage, compassion, and the power of community. Destiny is battling breast cancer and the funds raised will be used to alleviate the financial strain this disease has placed on her and her family.
#39
Recipient: ZECO Charities Foundation
Donated By: J.D. and Carissa Magee
Sponsored By: The Magee, Lytle, and Vernon Families
HEAVEN'S GARDEN
The Betsi Ra Magee Memorial Scholarship honors the life and legacy of Betsi Ra Magee, a beloved member of the Uintah Basin community known for her compassion, generosity, faith, steadfast love, and commitment to helping others.
This scholarship supports local students who embody Betsi’s values of kindness, perseverance, love, and service — encouraging them to pursue their educational goals and give back to the community where she was greatly valued and continues to be deeply missed.
All proceeds from this Christmas tree auction will go directly to the Betsi Ra Magee Memorial Scholarship Fund to help provide financial assistance to deserving students, continuing Betsi’s spirit of compassion and generosity.



