MBTF could not exist without our awesome volunteers. The Yates are one such family of volunteers! The Yates, pictured above, include L-R: daughter Mariyah, dad Nick, mom Tracy, son Caden, and Sam, Caden’s girlfriend. The Yates have been volunteers for the Foundation since the beginning.

By Nick Yates, Foundation Volunteer

Where to begin? We have lived in North Ogden for 22 years, and have known Jennie for about 13 years through the PTA.

The first time we voted for a mayor was Brent’s first term. We talked to Brent a few times at City Council meetings and through emails. He’s the only mayor I have known that would communicate to the public through social media.

My favorite memory of Brent was seeing the videos of him riding in the snowplows on Christmas Day. If the employees were working, he was alongside them.

Fast forward to Brent’s death. We joined in and lined the streets when he came home.

For our family there was a question that needed answering; how can we serve and honor Brent and Jennie?

At the time, my son, Caden was working on his Eagle Scout rank and needed a community service project. He wanted to do something to honor Brent.

After looking into various ideas, we were put in touch with Kirk Chugg who was organizing the first year of the Foundation’s Veterans Week events. Caden took it on as his project to set up their first Military Tribute Field of Flags.

It was a challenge compared to the years since. We first set it up at Barker Park and then moved it to the North Ogden city offices to put it up again. All on the same night. Caden pulled it off.

As a family we helped and have been helping the Foundation ever since. We have been in charge of the Veterans Outdoor Devotional and love The Project 9/11 event.

We as a family, Nick, Tracy, Caden, Mariyah and Sam are forever grateful for Jennie and Brent’s sacrifice and allowing us to serve in our own way.