Alouise Vigil uses her seemingly boundless energy to assist seniors who are frail and homebound to remain independent in their own homes. She also provides caregivers the respite they need so they can recharge. "She is a ball of energy that never seems to slow down," said Vicki Jo Hansen, who oversees Vigil as a Senior Companion for the Salt Lake County Aging Services. "It is not just the help she provides, but her caring spirit that truly makes the real difference in the lives of those she serves." —

Volunteer today

I Interested in delivering meals to seniors, mentoring troubled teens or playing board games with veterans? Opportunities are available by the thousands in Utah, where government and nonprofit agencies are looking for helping hands. Here are a couple of places to look.

Salt Lake County Aging Services • Those interested in volunteering should call Vicki Jo Hansen at 385-468-3239.

United Way 2-1-1 • Go to uw.org/volunteer. The organization maintains a list of projects that can be narrowed by neighborhood and interests.

Have a volunteer you would like to highlight? Email us at closeup@sltrib.com.