The Gymnasium fills with volunteers and their buddies who traveled from different schools to attend the Special Olympics conducted at Ladue.

“The Special Olympics is an event where students with varying levels of needs compete by playing games just as they do in the Olympics,” Science teacher Shanae Yancy said. 

To enhance the fun environment, the volunteers help the kids from different age groups in different ways whether with direct assistance or cheering from the sidelines.

“Students have to sign up to be buddies to assist students in their games. The student leaders also coordinate everything and ensure a smooth day,” Yancy said.

Along with the students as volunteers, the LEADS staff also help organize the event to make it run steadily.

“The LEADS staff assist with lunches and supervision. A huge shout out to the maintenance staff, custodial staff, Greg Kendall and Jen Strobeck for all of their help leading up to the event,” Yancy said.

This huge support from the volunteers and staff help the participants feel loved with the high amount of attention they receive. Additionally, the sweet moments during this time creates special and lasting bonds between the participant and volunteer.

“This year I had several buddies tell me their former buddies from past events recognized them,” Yancy said.

These sweet moments make Yancy believe that it’s truly an amazing opportunity for students to experience.

“I think it is a great event. When students receive an email from me to sign up as a buddy I encourage them to sign up because it is an awesome feel good event,” Yancy said.