“The smiles, the laughter, the high fives and the fun, Special Olympics is not just about sports, but bringing individuals together and giving them an opportunity to be a part of the community,” says Kelly Hollahan.

A volunteer with Special Olympics since 2007, Kelly Hollahan, wanted to support her sister by being part of the organization.

“I have a sister with Down syndrome and was always a part of her involvement in Special Olympics over the years. When I moved to Grande Prairie I realized how much I missed  being a part of Special Olympics so I began volunteering,” says Hollahan.

Like most Special Olympics volunteer, Hollahan doesn’t have much experience with sports, but saw the first hand impact it can make to a person with an intellectual disability and wanted to be part of the movement where athletes get the joy of sports, learn life skills and the opportunity to be part of the community.

“When I began volunteering, I did not set out to coach. I was not even sure I would have the time,” says Hollahan.  

“When they asked which sport I wished to help with, the only reason I chose ten pin (bowling)  was because the time and day worked with my schedule. Not having any idea about any of the sports I just jumped in and helped where I could. “

And jump in she did. Kelly Hollahan has taken part in numerous tournaments, coached a team at Provincial Games, provides weekly guidance at her local bowling and helped install new programs like Active Start and FUNdamentals which introduces young athletes ages 2 to 6 and 7 to 14 to motor and movement skills.
Hollahan surpasses just giving time to Special Olympics, she puts in all her passion to make sure programs are available for the community. She even uses volunteering as an opportunity  to teach her children about compassion, determination and respect for others.

“I have volunteered for many years. Time constraints and life obligations have forced me to prioritize my time, but Special Olympics is the one organization I won’t sacrifice. I get too much in return for the little time I put in,” declares Hollahan.

Thank you Kelly for bringing your positivity and being an integral part of making Special Olympics. It is volunteers like you and fellow Grande Prairie volunteers who are making athlete see their potential and see that they can succeed.