Volunteer Stories - Megan Skelly: Interlake Region

Megan Skelly – Interlake Region

East St. Paul Active Start

I have been involved with Special Olympics Manitoba since i was 10 years old. When I was 10 years old I asked Santa to volunteer for Special O for Christmas. That year I volunteered with the Little Rascals. I would take my friend who has FASD with me and I would help her out. I volunteered until I was 12 years old. About 3 years ago I started volunteering with the East St Paul Active Start Program. I am now head coach of the Little Critters East St Paul Active Start program.

When I was in elementary school with a few classmates with different abilities I knew they went to Special Olympics and my mom encouraged me to volunteer with Special Olympics.

My experience with Special O has been fantastic. Sunday mornings are my favourite time of the week seeing my athletes every week puts a smile on my face and makes my heart so full. I love planning activities that I know my athletes will love, now that i know everyone's favourite games. Seeing my athletes get a new skill, work on previous skills or just see that light bulb go off that they have just connected it makes it all worth while.

My most memorable moment is when an athlete that started 3 years ago could not walk at all without canes and her grandma holding on to her, we had a session before Christmas this athlete took a few steps on her own without help or holding on to anyone she was so proud of herself and had worked so hard to get to this point. it was a highlight that day and it makes it all worth while.

People should volunteer with Special Olympics it is so rewarding, my heart is so full when we are done our session. Our athletes are amazing and have over come so much they always walk in with a smile on their faces. Just give it a try, you will not be disappointed!

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