NEW PROJECT!!!

Sooooo we got our new project and I am super excited about it!! Last night Britta took us to Mia Thia and told us over dinner. Shes sneaky and has been holding out on us so we were happy when we finally knew. We are going to be spending 4 weeks in Fresno, CA!!!! We'll be living in tents with no electricity or refrigeration... its basically going to be amazing. We will be doing environmental work all around the campsite. I think a lot of us are happy to finally be working outside and not be stuck in an office. Meg, our Unit Leader said that it is going to be like Weed Warriors on steroids, soo we will be removing invasive species, which is one of my most favorite things to do especially. We might also be doing environmental education and some canoeing :)

The 26th is our last day in Boise. Its going to be a little sad to leave since we've been here for about four months but I think we're excited to move on to something else. Its a good time to leave though especially since we only have one working toilet for 7 girls :). We all have had some pretty sweet memories here buttt I'm sure we will have a lot more in the forest, in the dark, with just the ten of us.....

~Cheryl

"Peace begins with a smile"

I spent two weeks in McCall with Stephanie at the snowshoeing venue. I was nervous and stressing out before leaving, not exactly sure of myself and leading volunteers. I'm more of a follower, so the week stretched me- it was chaotic at times, for everyone involved with the Games (transportation, food & beverage, credentials..) But it was wonderful. My favorite part was seeing the athletes compete- watching Reuben win a bronze medal! And greeting the different countries as they came in- being able to share smiles, hugs and handshakes even if we didn't speak the same language. The Games are magical!

Snowshoeing, Ponderosa State Park


Mary g

Human Rights-Special Olympics World Winter Games

**Delegation Welcome Center**

Fionna, Laurane(irish athlete), Mary, Britta, Josh

Human rights refers to the "basic rights and freedoms to which all humans are entitled"

Dignity, acceptance, and a chance to reach one’s potential

Since 1968, Special Olympics has been bringing one message to the world: people with intellectual disabilities can and will succeed if given the opportunity.

Many live lives of neglect and isolation, hidden away or socially excluded from full participation in schools or society. Transforming the athlete, Special Olympics sports are a gateway to empowerment, competence, acceptance and joy.

Communities see their humanity, their joy in competition, their pride and their potential, and they begin to believe in a different kind of world– a world in which everyone is respected and included.

What does this inclusion mean?
Special Olympics is changing lives ...

Dignity, acceptance, and a chance to reach one’s potential

"It takes but one positive thought when given a chance to survive and thrive to overpower an entire army of negative thoughts."