The week of April 18-24, 2021 was National Volunteer Week. Created in 1974, the week serves as an opportunity to recognize the impact volunteers make in their communities, reflect on the profound and lasting effect they have on those around them, and express gratitude for their ability to help transform the world for the better.
At Special Olympics Wisconsin, we are lucky to have some of the most dedicated and inspiring volunteers in the world. Unfortunately many of our volunteers were sidelined by COVID-19 as the majority of our events were canceled. Given the uniqueness of this past year, for National Volunteer Week in 2021 we decided to shine a light on a few of the volunteers who inspired our athletes (and us) during the pandemic this past year!
Whether it’s helping athlete Dan Brand serve as Marshal of the Truck Convoy, raising money through the Polar Plunge, assisting athletes in the SONA Move Challenge, or supporting aspiring athlete leaders in leadership trainings, Amy, Stephanie and Rachel have been instrumental in keeping their athletes healthy, engaged and supported through this difficult year. Thank you, St. Coletta crew!
Cindra is a member of the Milwaukee-area Games Management Team. She is also a fan favorite when it comes to announcing awards. She has brought her energy and enthusiasm to many of our virtual awards ceremonies held during the pandemic. Her efforts have helped make the events extra special for our athletes. Thank you, Cindra!
Throughout the pandemic, Malinda has worked extra hard to keep the athletes of Dodge County Special Olympics active and engaged through our virtual programming like SOfit, our Fitness Competition or the SONA Move Challenge.
Along with her sister, Jennifer, she has been a consistent contributor to our Zoom sessions all year long. She has helped her sister to lose weight and get fitter than ever during the pandemic. Malinda also regularly posts in our SOWI Fitness at Home Facebook group to help encourage others to get outside and stay active. Way to go, Malinda!
Thank you to all of our volunteers and we can’t wait to see you all again in person soon!
