Angela Achenbach, CPA/Partner at Baker Tilly Virchow Krause, was inspired to take her support of Special Olympics Wisconsin to the next level after volunteering at a regional track meet in Oregon.
“Just being in the environment with the high fives, hugs, and huge smiles was very moving,” she said. “Some of the athletes (and their families) didn’t even care if they finished the race, they were just happy to be there – happy to have that opportunity. After that I was hooked,” she said.
Achenbach said it’s easy to be passionate about an organization that provides opportunities to a group of people who might not otherwise have them and is thankful to have the opportunity to serve on the Board.
Brian Kesseler, President-Power Solutions at Johnson Controls, joined the board of directors to ensure Special Olympics Wisconsin can continue to extend its reach and ability to allow athletes to develop skills and share and establish friendships.
Vince Vitrano, news anchor at TMJ4, is a longtime Special Olympics Wisconsin supporter. He went Over the Edge and rappelled down The City Center at 735 in Milwaukee in 2010 and took the Ultimate Lambeau Leap in Green Bay in 2011. He has also emceed the Muskego Polar Plunge for several years.
“Special Olympics Wisconsin provides our athletes with the opportunity to compete and grow, but it's the athletes who find the courage to do it,” he said. “I am impressed and inspired by our athletes every day.“
Robert Gooze, retired EVP at Pacific Cycle, has been actively involved in the community, serving as treasurer on the board of Three Gaits, Inc. (a therapeutic horseback riding organization), President and Director of Oregon Soccer Association, and the President of Southern Wisconsin Special Olympics.
"Being around Special Olympians reminds us that it is the camaraderie and friendships gained from competition that gives meaning to our lives,” he said. “I'm proud to be associated with such a great organization that daily makes a difference for everyone involved."
