Myla Dutton originally wanted to be a schoolteacher.

But working at an American Red Cross Chapter while in college in Southern California started Dutton on a career path in the nonprofit sector.

"I taught in a junior high school for a year and realized that nonprofits are where I wanted to be," said Dutton, executive director of Community Action Services in Provo.

Community Action provides assistance to low-income families in Utah County. Among its services are the HEAT utility assistance program, a food-bank and programs to help families manage money and become homeowners.

Dutton started working at Community Action Services in 1979 as a planner and volunteer-services director, helping to write grant proposals and plans. She became executive director 17 years ago.

Earlier this month, the Utah County Commission gave Dutton its Commissioners Medal of Honor for her service to the community. Chairman Larry Ellertson said Dutton is considered the "Mother Teresa" of Utah County for her work with the area's poor, a sentiment echoed by his fellow commissioners.

"She could have made a zillion dollars in private industry," Commission Vice Chairman Gary Anderson said. "She is a solid organizer."

But Dutton said the honor belongs with her staff and the countless volunteers who work at Community Action Services.