Leah Swenson: The Heart and Soul of Navajo Strong

In the heart of the Navajo Nation, Leah Swenson shines as a beacon of hope and resilience. Her tireless efforts as a volunteer with Navajo Strong, a non-profit organization formed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, have touched the lives of thousands. Her unwavering dedication to delivering essential supplies, food and resources to Navajo families and elders, regardless of the weather, is nothing short of heroic.

"We're super blessed to have people like Leah who have kept this project going," says Bud Frazier, the founder of Navajo Strong. Leah's commitment is even more remarkable considering she balances her volunteer work with a full-time job.

A member of the FOX13 Dream Team posed as a potential donor to Navajo Strong and arranged to meet Leah for the exchange. Instead, Leah was surprised by the Dream Team with a truckload of supplies donated by Lifting Hands International and a $2,000 contribution from Mountain America Credit Union.

Leah's motivation is deeply personal. "It's just helping the Navajo people," she explains. "I have a bunch of family members on the reservation. After COVID, and working with Bud on Navajo Strong, it just makes me want to keep helping." For Leah, volunteering is a source of immense joy and fulfillment. "It just makes me really happy to help everybody," she shares.

Leah’s story is a testament to the power of compassion and community. Her unwavering dedication to helping others, even in the face of personal challenges, truly makes her a hero among us.