Sarah Profitt-Wagner

How long have you been involved with Special Olympics?

10 years.

How did you first introduced to the movement and what got you hooked?

I first had an internship with Special Olympics after university. I loved meeting the athletes and celebrating their successes. Following my internship, life took me in a different direction, however the stickiness of Special Olympics made sure I found my way back. In no other professional setting have I found the ability to have as significant of an impact on the lives of others. 

How has Special Olympics impacted your life?

Special Olympics has introduced me to a world of people I might not have otherwise met. Being involved with Special Olympics has made me more patient, more understanding, and more likely to celebrate the wins, big and small. 

What is your favourite part about your role on the team?

My favourite part of my role on the team is the opportunity to tell the stories of our incredible athletes!

What is your proudest moment with Special Olympics?

My proudest moment with Special Olympics was, through my role as event lead for Unified Bocce, when we handed out a School Sport banner for the first time. It was a moment where our athletes, many of whom had never played on a school team before, had the opportunity to celebrate their win, and be celebrated at their school, just like any other school athlete. 

What does being a part of Special Olympics Team Canada mean to you and what is your goal for Turin?

Being a member of Special Olympics Team Canada is a tremendously exciting opportunity. It was truly an honour to be offered a small role on this team. For me, it means being able to share the joy, and excellence, and stories of our athletes with a wider audience. It means being able to introduce the Special Olympics movement to someone who might not yet be familiar, which then in turn could grow our athlete or volunteer membership, or attract a new supporter. 

What unique skills or experiences do you bring to your role as a coach, mission staff or team leadership and what drives you to support and inspire the athletes every day?

I have a love for storytelling. I have the unique experience of being able to work closely with all members of Special Olympics Team PEI over the past number of Games cycles. Meeting our athletes personally, and knowing how significant an opportunity like this is for them, drives me to do the very best I can in this role. 

What would you say to someone who is considering volunteering with Special Olympics?

Pick up the phone; send the email; fill out the form! Get started today! Our athletes are inspiring, and they will change your life more than you change theirs.