FRUIT HEIGHTS -- Service doesn't just benefit the receiver. It also helps the giver grow outside of themselves.
That's what Sarah Oldham has learned through her many hours of helping others.
The 16 year-old Davis High School junior was recently named first runner up in Miss Utah's Outstanding Teen Scholarship Pageant. This is the second year in a row she has held that position. She said even though she didn't win the title, she still plans to encourage other teenagers to serve others.
"I think it's important for teens my age to come outside of the 'me' generation and to gain respect for those they serve," she said. "With my platform I plan to take groups of teens to homeless shelters, nursing homes, schools and hospitals to use the arts to encourage and inspire as many people as possible."
Sarah's platform, "It's Showtime ... for Service!" is an arts-based service organization for teens, creating opportunities for them to help build character and strengthen their community. Sarah said teens can have incredible experiences by sharing their talents and interacting with more isolated members of their community whom they otherwise might never meet.
Sarah stands true to her platform. Playing the violin since the age of 4, the daughter of J.D. and Annie Oldham spends many hours performing at nursing homes and other community events. She said she loves the way her music brings a calming, healing feeling to those listening.
"Music can influence a person and lift their spirits," she said. "It can make their day a little bit better."
Sarah is the oldest of five children. She was born in Connecticut and then moved to California before settling in Utah. She is a member of the tennis and track team at school and likes to ski and read. She also likes to spend time with her cat, Fritz.
The pageant, said executive director Amy L. Rasmussen, is the little sister pageant to the Miss Utah and Miss America organizations. Girls compete in five different areas including interview, talent, lifestyle and fitness, evening gown and scholastic achievement.
"Our mission statement is to empower the young women in our state to excel in community service, academics, leadership and positive self-esteem," said Rasmussen.
This year's winner, Marisa Nielsen of Hyrum will move on to the national competition next year in Orlando. Sarah received a one year full tuition waiver from Utah State University and was also one of two winners of the Glen S. Harman Musicians Cash Award.
"The pageant is so good for your self confidence and self esteem," said Sarah. "You really learn to respect yourself and others. It was a great experience."
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