Amanda Lewis fell in love with the Special Olympics after volunteering in high school when her school hosted the track and field events. For the past four years, Amanda has continued her passion for working with the event to college and the Columbia community. Jody Cook, Recreation Specialist with Parks & Recreation, who has worked with her says: “She is gifted at adjusting her approach to each athlete and helping him or her preform to the maximum capability. The fun Amanda brings to all she is involved in would be hard to duplicate. The athletes brighten up, putting more focus and effort in what they are doing when Amanda is around.”
Often committing herself to volunteering four nights a week as well as competition weekend for the summer event. As a student with many commitments, Amanda’s reliability, cheerful disposition and success amazes those she works with. Her compassion shines through and has allowed her to build relationships and keep volunteering.
“I’ve learned that you may not always have a visible impact when volunteering yet however small, you always make one,” Amanda says. “The relationships I have formed and grown over the years have continued to be some of the most important to me.”
Written by volunteer Abby Holman
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