Volunteers always hold a special place in the hearts of the organization for which they serve. Volunteers within the special populations program hold that same special place, but also hold something much more – they share a special bond with the athletes. The Armistead family – Julie, Mackenzie and Clint – are three such volunteers. Their dedication to the special population programs and Special Olympics with Blue Valley Recreation earned them KRPA’s Distinguished Volunteer award at this year’s annual convention in Hutchinson, Kan.
Blue Valley Recreation offers adapted and integrated leisure activities for all ages of individuals with disabilities and supports the Blue Streaks, a Special Olympics team. With more than 100 active participants, volunteers such as Armistead family are a necessity.
The three have provided lasting friendships as well as fun experiences for numerous athletes during the last seven years. Julie, a special education teacher with the Blue Valley School District, encourages her students to participate in Special Olympics while serving as a school liaison with the Special Olympics committee. Julie recruits other volunteers to help with various programs and volunteers her time as a tutor and a mentor.
Mackenzie began volunteering in high school. Her enthusiasm and positive attitude are contagious to participants. She regularly attends sport practices and offers each competitor words of encouragement.
A college student at the University of Kansas, Clint’s affiliation began when he was in middle school. Clint escorted an athlete with special needs to Ames, Iowa for the Special Olympics National Games and continues to volunteer as a student advisor with Special Olympics International. Clint still finds the time to attend Blue Valley Recreation Special Pops events and even volunteers with program in the city of Lawrence.
The Armistead family will be honored at a reception on Feb. 18 at the Activity Center.