ABC4 - Select Health Awards donates $50,000 to 10 Utah organizations advancing health and well-being in the community

Watch and read about Izabel Neeley, People Helping People's Program Director, and Emily Allen, Select Health's Community Relations Coordinator, discuss the Select Health Awards and PHP's Employment Program with ABC4.

"Select Health Awards donates $50,000 to 10 Utah organizations advancing health and well-being in the community

by: George Severson

Posted: Nov 20, 2025 / 06:01 PM MST

Updated: Nov 20, 2025 / 06:01 PM MST

MURRAY, Utah (ABC4 Utah) – Ten Utah community organizations were chosen as winners of the 2025 Select Health Awards, recognizing their outstanding contributions to improving health and well-being within their communities.

These awards are presented to organizations that excel in serving individuals with special needs, supporting underserved populations, and making a tangible impact on public health.

Each organization received $5,000 to further their mission, with the funds earmarked for initiatives such as food distribution, mental health resources, marketing efforts, and access to medical supplies.

“Our state is home to extraordinary initiatives that enhance community well-being,” said Emily Allen, community benefits relations coordinator for Select Health. “The Select Health Awards honor those organizations driving positive change, and we hope it will help them continue their essential work.”

Among this year’s honorees is People Helping People (PHP), a nonprofit dedicated to reducing poverty by empowering low-income women—primarily single mothers – with the tools and support needed to secure stable, well-paying employment.

PHP’s Employment Program provides education, coaching, and mentoring to help women build confidence, develop professional skills, and achieve financial independence.

The funds from the Select Health Award will be used to enhance PHP’s Employment Program, which include employment preparation workshops, resume building, job search strategies, and ongoing professional development through their Women’s Professional Network.

These services are vital in helping women overcome systemic barriers and create lasting change for themselves and their families.

“This award helps us continue our mission of empowering women to break the cycle of poverty through meaningful employment,” said Izabel Neeley, program director of People Helping People. “When women thrive in the workplace, their families and communities thrive too. We’re grateful to Select Health for recognizing the power of people helping people.”

The 2025 recipients address some of Utah’s most pressing health needs, including food security, mental health, housing stability, youth development and access to medical care. 

Among the initiatives receiving support are meal delivery for seniors, community garden expansion, mental health services for LGBTQIA+ youth and free vision care for children.

The Select Health Awards play a crucial role in sustaining and amplifying these organizations’ efforts. By providing financial support and recognition, the awards help to raise awareness of the vital work being done across the state.

They also encourage community collaboration and inspire other organizations to pursue innovative solutions to pressing health and social challenges.

Since its inception in 2008, the Select Health Awards has donated over $1 million to organizations across Idaho, Utah, and Nevada. The Select Health Awards were created to support health and well-being by empowering organizations that share Select Health’s commitment to proactive care.

As part of an integrated health system with Intermountain Health, both organizations focus on preventive strategies and wellness initiatives that address community health needs before they become critical.

By supporting innovative programs and local organizations, the awards help improve access to essential services, promote healthier lifestyles, and enhance overall well-being.

This initiative aligns with Select Health and Intermountain Health’s shared mission to build stronger, healthier communities and ensure that individuals and families have the resources they need to live the healthiest lives possible. 

For more information about the awardees and to celebrate their achievements, visit selecthealthawards.org."