Tree Descriptions
Recipient: Thompsen’s House of Hope
Donated By: Dan’s Tire and Auto Tech
HONOR, COURAGE, KINDNESS, WISDOM
The Thompsen 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 began 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. Thompsen 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"
#1
Recipient: Friends of Uintah Daggett Children’s Justice Center
Donated By: Basin I&E
CHRISTMAS PAST
The CJC is a family-friendly, welcoming facility designed to support children and families affected by child abuse. This calm and comforting space brings together local agencies investigating child abuse cases and those impacted. By having a single, coordinated location, the center ensures a streamlined, compassionate response for the children. Funds raised will be allocated to meet urgent needs that arise during child abuse crises, such as providing food, shelter, and other essential support. Additionally, these funds will enable the members of the multidisciplinary team to attend advanced national training that ensures our local MDT response to child abuse is comprehensive, innovative, and held to the highest standards of care.
#2
Recipient: Daughter of Utah Pioneers
Donated By: Rafter Three Bars Inc
WOODLAND WINTER
Daughters of the Future, Keepers of the Past.
The purpose of the organization is to perpetuate the names of the men, women and children who were the pioneers in founding this community by preserving old landmarks, marking historical places, collecting artifacts and histories, establishing a museum of historical matter and securing manuscripts, photographs, maps, and all such materials that aid in perfecting a record of the Utah Pioneers. The Daughters of Utah Pioneers Museum is free to the public for the education of school children and adults to learn more about their community and the Pioneers of the past. Donations will be used for the maintenance of the Museum, the 13 local markers and the July 24th activities held at the museum.
#3
Recipient: Vernal Rotary Club
Donated By: Dan’s Tire and Auto Tech
SERVICE ABOVE SELF
The Vernal Rotary Club has played an active role in Vernal since its establishment in 1959. Vernal Rotary, a member of Rotary International, is a local club of men and women who want to serve by supporting and building our community. Rotary values service above self in our mission to promote peace, fight disease, provide clean water, save mothers and children, support education, grow local economies, and protect the environment. Rotary has supported the local community through Santa’s Community Effort (Angel Trees), annual coat drives, bili-blankets for Ashley Regional Hospital, numerous literacy projects with schools and libraries, in addition to many other service projects.
#4
Recipient: Friends Against Family Violence
Donated By: 4-H Teen Council - Uintah County
COURAGE IN BLOOM
Friends Against Family Violence is a community-based non-profit serving survivors of domestic and sexual violence in the Uintah Basin since 2019. All their services are 100% free and confidential. They offer a 24/7 shelter and crisis line, advocacy, support groups, therapy, housing assistance, healthy relationship classes, and more. As they complete renovations of their new Housing and Advocacy Center in Vernal, funds raised will support ongoing costs of their new transitional housing units – the first housing of their type in Uintah County. Their goal is to fully furnish all three of the new transitional housing units. Funds raised will go a long way to creating a welcoming space to survivors who use these services.
#5
Recipient: Megan, Daysen, and Bridger Rinderknecht
Donated By: Donovan (son-in-law), Jessica (daughter), and Kolson (grandson) Anderson
BLUE, BLUEY CHRISTMAS
In memory of our dad and grandpa, Detective Kevin Orr. This year we remember Jake Rinderknecht. On February 9th, Jake suddenly passed away. He leaves behind his wife Megan and two sons, Daysen and Bridger. Jake loved his boys with all his heart and enjoyed spending time with them. He shared his love of hunting and fishing as well as encouraging their individual interests. Money raised for the Rinderknecht family will help cover life expenses after the loss of a spouse.
#6
Recipient: Project Alley
Donated By: Kingsbury United Church of Christ
OUT OF THE SHADOWS, AND INTO THE LIGHT -
THE LOTUS TREE
Sponsored by Kingsbury United Church of Christ & friends, this tree symbolizes the journey from darkness to light, like a lotus flower blooming in murky waters. It represents the hope and resilience of women overcoming addiction through Project Alley, a future sober living home in Vernal, Utah. Project Alley has raised over $560,000 of their $800,000 goal, and is currently looking for a home.
At Kingsbury United Church of Christ, we believe in radical justice—working to create a world where everyone, especially those most marginalized, can thrive. By sponsoring this tree, we are partnering with Project Alley to ensure women in recovery have the support to rebuild their lives with dignity. God Bless!
#7
Recipient: Crusaders for Kindness
Donated By: Three Crazy Friends
A BEARY MERRY CHRISTMAS
The story of Crusaders for Kindness begins with a Trees for Charity Tree made in Honor of Amy Vernon, who was battling cancer for the second time. Just a few days after the Trees for Charity event, Amy passed away. But the blessing of the tree continued to help her family and others. In honor of Amy Vernon, several scholarships to those who have been affected by cancer, have been awarded to Uintah High School seniors the last five years, and will continue with the next graduating class. Not only that, Crusaders for Kindness also gives to various community causes. Many of whom would go unnoticed and unknown, though desperately needing a helping hand and a little hope. Thank you for helping us continue to be Crusaders for Kindness!
#8
Recipient: Sarah Barton
Donated By: Liberty Energy
MARIO’S CHRISTMAS KINGDOM
Sarah Barton experienced a series of tragic events that started when Sarah’s first grand-baby died. Just a short time later, her new family home burned down and was a total loss. When starting to pick up the pieces, her husband Cody, a dedicated law enforcement officer in the Uintah Basin, suddenly and unexpectedly died. These funds will help Sarah and her 4 children alleviate some of their burdens as they try to rebuild their lives.
#9
Recipient: Amy Massey
Donated By: Realty One
GIVING BACK TO AMY: A GIFT OF GRATITUDE AND SUPPORT
Amy has Degenerative Disk Disease and has to have anterior cervical discectomy and fusion on three levels with a cage, hoping that the other two affected discs won’t deteriorate quicker after surgery. She has a reversal of the “normal” neck curve, putting more strain on her neck, shoulder, and bones, just to hold her head up. Her disks are collapsing on multiple levels in her neck with bone spurs and herniations. She also has arthritis at every level, stenosis throughout cervical spine and foraminal narrowing. She has many surgeries to go through. Amy has made a tremendous impact on our community. Through this Christmas tree, we hope to express our gratitude and love for her and help her in a time of need!
#10
Recipient: Amy Hammond
Donated By: Libby Ipson with New Star Real Estate
AMY STRONG
On July 3rd, Amy heard the 3 words that would change her life, "You have cancer". Amy is a local mother of 3, putting up one heck of a fight against triple-negative breast cancer. She is a giver, serving our community and children as a school counselor and therapist. She is currently doing weekly chemotherapy treatments, followed by every other week, at which time she will prepare for a double mastectomy. Amy will likely need radiation in Provo Monday through Friday, plus injections to stimulate bone marrow growth. All her treatments will be very expensive and the money raised will go toward her treatment plan and recovery, along with normal bills due to a decrease in work. Lets give back to Amy and help her the way she has helped us and our children.
#11
Recipient: Payton Arnold
Donated By: Stealth Management, Vernal Marriott Properties, Coltharp & Wilkins Families
BUILDING A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR PAYTON ARNOLD
On January 25, 2024, 12 year old Payton Arnold was diagnosed with B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. This type of Leukemia comes on quickly and aggressively. That day he was taken to Primary Children’s Hospital where he was admitted to the Hospital. Within 2 days, they started chemotherapy. Payton’s outlook is positive. His type of Leukemia has a 90% success rate, which brings his family a lot of hope. The downside to the battle is that his treatment plan is 2 to 2 1/2 years. For the first year, he will receive aggressive chemotherapy treatments. His mom, Carrie, takes him out to Primary Children’s once a week for treatments and then often provides more at home. Payton is an amazing young man. He is happy and optimistic and grateful.
#12
Recipient: Daniel Kurtz
Donated By: Tree Care Services
SERVE AND PROTECT
In Memory of Officer Cody Barton who passed away unexpectedly on January 28, 2024, after dedicating his life to serving and protecting both his community and his family.
In Cody’s spirit of giving back, this tree will benefit Daniel Kurtz, who has recently been diagnosed with T3 colon cancer. Daniel is currently undergoing 5 weeks of radiation and chemotherapy treatment. Following this, he will continue with chemotherapy administered through a port. Due to his treatment, Daniel will be unable to work for at least two months, placing a financial and emotional burden on him and his family.
As we remember Cody’s selfless service, we invite you to rally around Daniel, offering support in his time of need. Together we can make a difference!
#13
Recipient: Stormy Rimer
Donated By: Bernard Family
TRUCKS OF LOVE
Stormy’s health has been a daily struggle for years with Lyme Disease. In 2020, she found out she had a disease called Charcot, causing progressive degeneration and fragmentation of her joints and bones. In 2022, Stormy had a stroke and then thyroid cancer. While undergoing surgery to remove the cancer, they were able to repair some of the stroke effects, making it possible for her to use her right eye and smile. She has been doing rehab to recover from the stroke while fighting the cancer. In May of 2024, they found the surgery had not been completely successful and the cancer had spread. She started radiation treatment but that completely killed her immune system. She now needs immunoglobulin transfusions while awaiting possible chemotherapy.
#14
Recipient: Soulful Strides Sanctuary
Donated By: TJ Electric, LLC
HEALING HEARTS WITH FAITH, LOVE, AND HORSES
Soulful Strides Sanctuary is a newly founded non-profit with a heartfelt mission to integrate the healing power of horses with Christian principles, supporting individuals affected by complex trauma and grief. It aims to serve veterans, law enforcement, first responders, survivors of human trafficking and abuse, children and teens who have experienced trauma or loss, and others in need of healing. Through Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and spiritual counseling, we offer a path to resilience and renewal. Funds raised will help acquire land, build facilities, and launch impactful programs, in Jan 2025, that will directly benefit those in our community who are seeking hope and healing. Your support will help as they embark on their journey toward recovery.
#15
Recipient: Special Olympics of Utah/Uintah Dinos
Donated By: American Gilsonite Company
THE CARDINAL CHEER
American Gilsonite Company is proud to participate in the "Tree for Charity" event, with all proceeds from our tree donation going directly to the Uintah Dino's Special Olympics program. This contribution will help sponsor Special Olympic athletes from the Uintah Basin, covering their travel expenses to the state competition. By supporting these athletes, we are investing in their opportunity to compete and showcase their incredible talents, while promoting inclusion and community spirit. We are honored to contribute to this meaningful cause and help make a difference in the lives of these exceptional individuals.
#16
Recipient: High Country Dwarf Car Association
Donated By: High Country Dwarf Car Association
RACE FOR A CAUSE IN THE BASIN
Join us as we Race for a Cause in the Basin! Diamond Mountain Speedway is honored to be part of our great community and is thrilled to present a tree that highlights all of the fun activities in the Basin. Diamond Moutain Speedway further supports community causes each race weekend, including Suicide Prevention, Autism Awareness, Salute Our Heroes, Cancer Screening, and much more!
#17
Recipient: Charitable Friends of Ashley Valley / Sub for Seniors
Donated By: Golden Age Center
DON’T BE A GRINCH
Sub for Seniors began a decade ago to help seniors who are unable to leave their homes. Working with the Golden Age Center, we give each senior a gift bag with personal and hygiene items as well as a food bag filled with everyday essentials. We have seen a larger population of seniors that need our help. Our goal this year is to distribute these bags to 500 seniors in our community. Please help us make this holiday season the best yet for our seniors!
#18
Recipient: Sgt. Daniel Gurr Foundation (Dave Gurr)
Donated By: Soni Snow
A HERO’S CATCH
Sgt. Daniel Gurr was 21 years old when he was killed in action in the Sangin Valley, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on August 5th, 2011. He was in the 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, 3rd Marine Expeditionary Force. The mission of the Sgt. Daniel D. Gurr Foundation is to help the active members and their families affected by war. By sending packages overseas, we are trying to make their lives a little bit better. Wounded Warrior Hunt in Eastern Utah to try to give back to our wounded heroes for what they have sacrificed for us. We also send donations to the Fisher House in Dover to help those families that are going through a difficult time.
#19
Recipient: Fisher Kidd
Donated By: Ooh La La & Friends
GOLDEN DREAM CHARITY TREE
Fisher Kidd was born on December 9, 2011. He was 24 weeks early and was in the NICU for four months. Fisher is now a thriving 12-year-old who doesn’t meet a stranger and is always happy. He’s had many surgeries in the past and many varieties of therapy. They were able to find one therapy that has helped him tremendously- ABM, also known as Anat Baniel Method. This therapy is to help him become more independent and help him walk. They have to travel to Tucson every six weeks. This has been a life-changing opportunity and they would like to continue this journey to make the best life possible for their son.
#20
Recipient: Stacey Parker
Donated By: Stephanie Smith
LIFE IS SWEET!
This past summer, Stacey received the devastating news that her husband, Brandon Parker, had passed away. Suicide is a heartbreaking tragedy that leaves an enduring impact on those left behind. Brandon was a cherished member of our community, known for the many lives he touched. For years, he poured his heart into this event, Trees for Charity, which he passionately led and loved. As the family’s primary provider, his loss has brought significant hardship to Stacey and their boys. Despite her many sacrifices, they now need our support more than ever. The proceeds from this tree will go directly to help them as they navigate life without their beloved husband and father.
#21
Recipient: Uintah Schools Foundation
Donated By: Davis Food and Drug
WINTER WONDERLAND
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.
#22
Recipient: UBTech
Donated By: Uintah Basin Technical College Foundation
GEAR UP FOR SCHOLARSHIPS
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
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.
Your support has the power to change lives by providing students with the resources they need, helping them succeed academically, and creating a lasting impact on their families.
Scholarships ease financial burden and allow students to focus fully on their education. They also 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. You can make a difference!
#23
Recipient: Garrett Harwood
Donated By: B&D RV and Friends
WE “WOOD METAL” IN THE SNOW WITH YOU!
2024 has not been an easy year for Garrett Harwood and his family. Early in the year, Garrett was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma after finding a huge tumor in his chest. He has been fighting this horrible disease with very aggressive rounds of chemotherapy. He has finally finished the chemo. His scan was very promising, but now comes the battle of the mounting bills not covered by insurance. We hope that this tree can help relieve some of the financial burdens for the Harwood Family.
#24
Recipient: Operation Brat
Donated By: B Vibing
HOGWARTS HOLIDAY
Operation Brat was started 11 years ago. Their mission is to give back to the local veteran community by providing Christmas presents, Christmas stockings, car repairs, and rent payments, along with sending care packages to local active duty members. In addition, Operation Brat has outreach programs in which children provide letters and cards to local and state Veterans in hospice and receiving medical care in the hospitals.
#25
Recipient: Emma Shelton
Donated By: Windy, Kacie, and Tessa Barton
IN GOD’S HANDS
Emma is a former Miss Uintah County Teen Volunteer, Little Miss, and has completed service for the Basin for many years. She has also had severe health issues resulting in hundreds of thousands of dollars of medical bills. She recently had emergency surgery to reverse an intestine obstruction, and was in the Primary Children's Hospital for seven days. Her insurance doesn’t cover all of the care needed. This tree is to help her with medical bills and travel costs to meet with her doctors at the hospital as she recovers. She has helped so many, it’s now our time to give back and tell her thank you!
#26
Recipient: Cassi Noyes
Donated By: Christa Davies & BME
A CAMPING WE WILL GO
There is more to Cassi Noyes than the “Hairstylist that has cancer.” She was diagnosed with Stage 2 Triple Negative Breast Cancer. She completed 16 aggressive Chemo treatments and a double mastectomy in 27 weeks with a breast reconstruction surgery in the near future. The aggressive treatments took their toll on Cassi causing her to withdraw from a 23 year career as a hairstylist. Cassi is more than the “Hairstylist that went through cancer.” She is a proud wife and mother of two. She loves to be outdoors boating and camping, riding their Harley Davidson, and even just going for a drive in her car with the windows down and the music up! Cassi is the “Hairstylist that is fighting the battle and is not giving up!”
#27
Recipient: Reagan Hague
Donated By: Market on Main
REAGAN’S FARM
Reagan is the happiest girl! Her smile and laugh are contagious. She loves showing her sheep at the Duchesne County Fair, and she loves being outdoors with her family. Reagan was born with cerebral palsy and epilepsy. The funds from this tree will go towards a lift system to better support her parents in getting her into her wheelchair and around the house.
#28
Recipient: Utah Foster Care Uintah Basin
Donated By: Arizona Concrete
UTAH FOSTER CARE UINTAH BASIN
Children and families in our neighborhoods struggle everyday in situations that are emotionally and physically traumatic. Supporting our foster community brings relief and love to those that so badly need many helping hands.
#29
Recipient: Mandi Boren
Donated By: Manila FFA Chapter
MERRY PINKMAS
Mandi Boren is a devoted member of our community, serving as a local EMT and bus driver for Daggett County School District. Recently, Mandi was diagnosed with breast cancer. All proceeds will go directly to Mandi Boren and her family to help aid in her fight against breast cancer.
#30
Recipient: Leslie and Deric Winterton
Donated By: Alisha Gowen & Michelle Smith
HOLIDAY WHO BE WHAT-EE?? (MERRY GRINCHMAS)
On January 29, 2024, tragedy struck Leslie and Deric Winterton and their five children, when their home caught fire while two of their children were home alone. Their son bravely escaped, sought help and evacuated his younger sister from the home, all as the fire escalated to a total loss. Just a week after the fire, their family dog was run over and tragically died. Then hardship struck again when another son was injured, breaking his sternum in an accident. The family has been working steadily to rebuild their home, while continuing to battle challenges and insurance delays. We are hoping to lessen the stress and strain on the family through donations from our amazing community.
#31
Recipient: Ashley Valley Food Pantry
Donated By: Walmart
ASHLEY VALLEY FOOD PANTRY
Ashley Valley Food Pantry is a non profit organization which stores food donations and passes them onto families experiencing hunger. Your donation will help benefit local families experiencing hard times financially with the rise of inflation.
#32
Recipient: Taylor Raths
Donated By: Kaite Hollenbeck
MAKING A LIST, CHICKEN IT TWICE
Taylor and her husband have been happily married for 10 years and looked forward to having children. Taylor’s respected husband has honorably served in our country’s military for nearly 20 years. During his active-duty military service, an infertility diagnosis was confirmed which stemmed from his service, both stateside and abroad. The military insurance initially approved their needed Invitro Fertilization or IVF treatments (which averages $20,000 each round), because it was service related. However, with policy changes the military insurance has now denied the couple. With the sacrifices they have made, I ask our community to help with their infertility costs to bring their dream of having children to fruition.
#33
Recipient: Tom O’Brien
Donated By: Western Midstream
WESTERN MIDSTREAM GIVES BACK
In August 2023, TJ O'brien was diagnosed with Stage 4 Epithelioid Fibrosarcoma, a rare type of cancer with limited treatments. Shortly after, his cancer metastasized to his brain. Following radiation and surgery to remove the mass from his brain, they found growths in his lungs, and the original growths had gotten bigger.
While meeting with Doctors and continually coming up against limited treatments and limited treatment success, he also started working with a Naturopathic team so that he could do everything possible to help himself heal. Unfortunately, these treatments are not covered by insurance.
Funds raised will be used for treatments, travel expenses, and other financial burdens, to help ease the financial burden for TJ.
#34
Recipient: American Legion Post 11
Donated By: Brian Snow
FAMILY, FRIENDS, FREEDOM
American Legion Post 11 has been a post since 1919. It is a nonprofit organization of U.S. war veterans. It is made up of state, U.S. Territory, and overseas departments, and these in turn are made up of local posts like here in Vernal American Legion Post 11. They provide services of support to troops and family, Women Vets, Benefits and Education. They sponsor many local activities: a Baseball Team, Boys State, Scholarships, operation Comfort Warriors. They provide all the flags for Memorial Day, Veterans Day and Honor Guard, Color Guard in parades and Military Funeral Honors. The three big flags at the UC Building. Post 11 is a community of Veterans serving Veterans, Military and their families.
#35
Recipient: Vernal Victim Advocate Program
Donated By: Sew Many Memories
DON’T FENCE ME IN
Survivors of domestic violence and other violent crimes face a range of urgent needs. The Vernal Victim’s Advocates assist by coordinating safe housing, food, counseling, and other needs. Your generous donation to this program will directly support these critical services, helping victims find safety and rebuild their lives. My family was deeply touched by the compassionate care and support provided to us by the Vernal Victim's Advocate Program in 2018. Their assistance was invaluable as we navigated the aftermath of a violent home invasion that tragically took our father's life and injured our brother and mother. We are grateful for the opportunity to give back to this vital program to ensure that other victims receive the same support and resources as our family.
#36
Recipient: Saige Bearnson
Donated By: Wright Orthodontics
THE GREAT SHEPHERD
Saige is a devoted 26 year old mother to three wonderful children. She loves the outdoors, theater, and music. Saige was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) , an early but serious form of breast cancer. Her diagnosis is intermediate grade 2 which means the cancer is progressing more aggressively than in some cases. To give her the best chance of recovery, she will be undergoing a double mastectomy. She has poured all her energy into caring for her children, but now faces the toughest challenge of her life. Funds will help ease the burden on Saige and her family, allowing them to focus on her healing and spending time together by taking care of travel costs, childcare, household help and daily living expenses.
#37
Recipient: Civil Air Patrol Vernal Composite Squadron
Donated By: Art Box Studio LLC
YOU CAN BE MY WINGMAN ANYTIME -Iceman
Civil Air Patrol (CAP) transforms youth into dynamic citizens and aerospace leaders through a curriculum that focuses on four elements: leadership, aerospace, fitness and character. Cadets participate in these four elements earning honors and increased responsibilities. Many of the nation's astronauts, pilots, engineers and scientists first explored their careers through CAP. The Cadet Wingman Course teaches them the importance of both having and being a Wingman in life. A Wingman is someone who holds us accountable, watches our back and keeps us safe. Someone who helps us strive for excellence in all we do. The funds earned will go towards cadet service activities in the state of Utah, for uniforms, scholarships for flight training.
#38
Recipient: Quintien’s Warriors
Donated By: Quintien’s Warriors
FLYING WILD AND FREE
Quintien's Warriors was started in honor of our 15 month old son who passed away too soon. For our charity, we chose to help families that have gone through the same heartache get a headstone for their baby or child lost too soon. As we know first hand, unless you have all the money upfront you can't get a headstone. We want to make sure families have that one last piece of closure and that one last thing they can do for their child!
#39
Recipient: Nya Walton
Donated By: Karen Laub and Sherry Brokaw
O’HANA MEANS NO-ONE LEFT BEHIND
Nya was diagnosed with Pineoblastoma suddenly in April. Her brain and spine tumors were discovered when she had a severe headache while serving her community at a project. Her treatments have included 7 brain surgeries, proton radiation, rehab, and she is currently undergoing chemotherapy. Instead of celebrating her 12th birthday with friends and cake, she spent it in the hospital receiving chemotherapy. She is the daughter of Sheldon and Teisha Walton, both from Vernal, most recently Midland TX. One of her parents always accompanies her to the many treatments and hospital stays. The Waltons have 6 other children at home they care for. This family steps up for each other. We hope to ease the burdens that are upon them. NYA STRONG.