This last weekend I had the great pleasure of volunteering as an assistant coach for my local Special Olympics swim team at the regional competitions in Corvallis, OR. Volunteering has always been a huge part of my life and this year marks the sixth year I have been volunteering with Special Olympics Oregon. I always get so much joy out of working with children and adults with disabilities and this weekend was a great reminder of how much I enjoy what I do.

Getting to watch my athletes compete is always such a joy to see and they are always to excited whether they get a medal or a ribbon. I am always amazed at how much I learn from my athletes – whether it be patience, acceptance, or determination – I truly believe they have taught me so much more over the past six years than I have taught them. I look forward to our State Competition next month, I know it will be such a rewarding experience.