Global Week of Inclusion runs from July 15 to 21. Inclusion is so much more than a word. Being accepted and welcomed by society is what everyone wants, especially those with disabilities. In sports or the workforce, folks with diversabilties have what it takes and more to get the job done.
For example, in July, the BC Summer Games in Maple Ridge included Special Olympics athletes on their roster, with 38 of them competing in athletics and swimming. Our own Orca swim team members Lindsay Pearson and Hailey Borowski were amongst them swimming their best and bringing home the hardware. Truly amazing!
SOBC asked athletes from all over the province to share their stories of being included and some fellow athlete reporters did just that through their video and written submissions. David Johnston from Dawson Creek explained that becoming an athlete leader has enriched his life; while Jake Miller from Trail expressed that joining Special O “makes me feel like I belong.”
However, it is vital to realize that once this week is finished, the need to be included doesn’t fade away. A huge thank you to all workplaces that hire those with disabilities and to community enterprises such as the Sunshine Shack in Gibsons.
Located at the Gibsons Rec Centre, the Sunshine Shack provides jobs for those with diversabilties. One can purchase a snack, coffee or cold drink after a workout or on their way to a function at the centre. Several SOSC athletes also work there. Amber, Brandon, Coco, Linsey and others do a fantastic job of serving the tasty treats and operating the till. It’s not all toil though, as they do take time in the summer to enjoy the sun and take part in outings around the community and beyond.
However, come September, Sunshine Coast Special Olympics will begin to rev up for the 2024/25 season. Athletes and volunteers will be at Sunnycrest Mall on Sept. 5 and Trail Bay Mall on Sept 12 and 19 to highlight the many facets and faces of our illustrious organization. We hope to continue to attract new members to our cause, as athletes, volunteers and fans in our community. Community is what keep everything running swimmingly.
In closing, I reiterate that the diversability community is grateful for all the programs, initiatives and workplaces that understand the importance of inclusion within their ranks: Special Olympics, Sunshine Shack, IGA, Starbucks, SCACL, Claytons and Independent, to this very publication the Coast Reporter and many others. Thank you all!
