Skills and Personal Development
How did this experience challenge your problem-solving abilities?
This experience absolutely challenged my problem-solving skills. I worked at the face painting station at this event, and sometimes it was difficult to work with the special needs athlete. They could be a bit busy and move around a lot, making it hard to paint steadily. To maintain the painting's quality on the athletes, I decided it would be best to go with something easy to paint, so I could paint it well even if the athlete was moving.
Understanding and Awareness
How did your service influence your understanding of social or environmental issues?
My service had a great impact on my understanding of social issues. Socially, it seems like people treat people who have disabilities differently in a way that ostracizes them. Being able to serve was something I was excited about because I got to have fun with the athletes who came and have a good time. It was nice to be in a social environment with special needs athletes and see them be treated just like any other person. I feel that outside of events like this, people should always treat people with special needs just like anyone else.
Relationships and Teamwork
Did you work individually or as part of a team, and how did that impact your experience?
During this experience, I worked as a team with other students from my school. Working with others positively impacted my experience because we worked together to make sure all the athletes got face paint. Sometimes one of us couldn’t do a certain design, so we would ask a friend to paint it instead. Also, we would share different paints and fill in for one another if someone had to leave. We always helped one another out as a team.
Organizational Impact and Alignment
Do you plan to continue volunteering with this organization? Why or why not?
I absolutely plan to continue volunteering with this organization. This organization hosts this event every year, and I look forward to it. It warms my heart to cheer on the special athletes, serve them, and have a good time.
Reflection and Improvement
What would you change about your approach to this service opportunity in the future?
I would only change one thing about my approach to this service opportunity going forward. Next year, I will go to a different booth to maybe serve food or help with the races. I think this would be a good way to experience the different activities they offer and serve in different spots. Also, I would dress in layers because it was really cold!
Gave 7.00 hours on 10/04/2025 with Emerging Leaders Program, University of Memphis, Volunteer Odyssey