“Alright, let’s see who is going to be your buddy today,” the volunteer took Declan’s hand and looked around the field, “Let’s walk this way.”
We all started to walk across the field and the volunteer turned to me,
“It’s okay, mom. You take a break. I got him.”
“Okay, thanks! Have fun, Declan!” I called and retreated to the parent waiting area.
This weekend I realized how blessed we were – for volunteers. People who are willing to give their time to help others.
On Saturday, Declan played High-5 soccer. One of his most favorite activities.
Do you see the guy on the left?
He started High -5 soccer seven years ago for kids with special needs. Know why? His nephew has special needs and he wanted to do something for him. Back in 2012 there were 7 players and 12 buddies.
Now High-5 has over 100 players with special needs. I don’t even know how many buddies.
And the kids (aged 3-19) have so much fun. I tried to capture Declan there in the center playing sharks and minnows. Really I just captured one angle of this huge field covered with players and buddies, playing, having a great time. Just know this fun is happening in every unseen corner.
This picture is from their website taken a few years ago. See all those blue shirts? All those people that volunteer their time? That’s awesome.
![13246199_1007203522661131_7658091321624212722_o[1]](https://i0.wp.com/www.autismfamilypower.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/13246199_1007203522661131_7658091321624212722_o1.jpg?resize=640%2C428&ssl=1)
Today, Declan did his CAB boot camp workout.
![20190106_124145[1]](https://i0.wp.com/www.autismfamilypower.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20190106_1241451.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1)
![20190106_125050[1]](https://i0.wp.com/www.autismfamilypower.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/20190106_1250501.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1)
![RPM BOOT CAMP[1]](https://i0.wp.com/www.autismfamilypower.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/RPM-BOOT-CAMP1.png?resize=640%2C403&ssl=1)
This program started with a group of high school seniors working on a project. The project took off. They ended up creating another program for kids with special needs to go to.
Led by a group of volunteers willing to give the kids their time and attention.
Right now I am in the process of trying to find a program or summer camp for Declan to go to. My other kids were able to go to a loosely organized playground camp. I can’t send Declan to something like that. I need to find something more prepared to work with Declan and support his needs.
Declan doesn’t fit into the “typical” activities of his age. For Declan, the activities need to be a little different, with more support, for them to work.
Without these people devoting their time and energy to make these programs for kids with special needs, I don’t know what Declan would be involved in right now.
I am so happy for these activities, for the people that give their time and energy to others, especially kids with special needs.
So to these volunteers, I would like to give the biggest “THANK YOU!! YOU ROCK!!”
These people are true heroes, so I wholeheartedly agree with you, Robyn. Here’s to the volunteers! They do, indeed, rock. 🙂
They give their time and make such a difference – for us, with Declan. So thankful for all they do! Thank you so much, Alli! 🙂
Yes, absolutely, they do make a huge difference, Robyn. The world needs more people like them, and you’ve done a great thing shining a spotlight on their wonderful work. 🙂
That’s wonderful, and something I would love to do, if I had any spare time.
Thank you, Susie!
Your welcome
I agree. Volunteers are hard to find. I teach SPED at a high school and we really don’t have any volunteers to speak of. Most of them go to elementary schools.
I’m sorry you don’t get that many volunteers. I know the ones that help with our son have really made a difference – even to create the programs he attends. I am hoping some people step up for you – fingers crossed!
Thi s is great. It is wonderful to have people who will take time out of their lives to help others and i bet they enjoy it too.
Thank you so much, Anne! I agree – I know when I volunteer I really enjoy it – good point!
Still so many wonderful people in this world. Really pleased Declan goes and does so well. It will be great for him. The U.K. doesn’t really do that much with school holiday camps. Our holiday is only 6 weeks long. Are there many options near you.
I agree – thank you so much! There are a variety of options but at varying degrees. Catelyn is doing a soccer, rugby and field hockey camp. Bobby is doing mission trips for church, basketball and football. Declan isn’t really into sports. There are camps for special needs, but he doesn’t need the extent of care some provide (and charge for). So I am trying to find one – thankfully I think I have some options. It would only be for one week but it would still be something for him to do and look forward to – and hopefully a good experience he would like to do again.
The option itself is bittersweet. He doesn’t need to go to summer school this summer which he has in the past. I loved the schedule and routine of summer school. But am happy he is meeting all of his educational goals in the school year. Now I just have to create a schedule for him!
Our local Special Olympics chapter has a great relationship with the high school – and it seems there is never a shortage of volunteers. They do make a world of difference – for both kids and parents, alike. Great article!
Thank you so much!
lovely post, makes one happy
Thank you so much!
Sometimes people surprise you…
That is true! These people are really wonderful 🙂
This is so cool!! What great people!
They really are so awesome!
Great Work! Very Helpful Article. Thank you for sharing. Volunteer means ray of hope for those whose lives are plunged in the darkness of despair:-)
Thank you!