"Special Olympics is important to me because it represents the true meaning of sport - competition, joy, and creating long lasting friendships. I've seen first-hand how SO can change lives and I'm passionate about creating inclusive, accessible, opportunities for people with and without intellectual disabilities. I started volunteering with Special Olympics to help a close friend with Angelman Syndrome. Competing together not only helped her make new friends but also familiarized her with coaches, teachers, and peers before entering high school. This sparked my ongoing commitment to volunteering, competing, interning, and now working for Special Olympics Wisconsin."