Donna Campbell

How many years have you been involved with Special Olympics?

I have been involved with Special Olympics for over 20 years.  

Why did you first get involved with Special Olympics and how has it changed your life?

George Charchuk sent me a letter about The Community Councils. I was interested. We started the West Prince Community Council and then, I became a board trustee. I volunteered and coordinated programs for children, golf and swimming. It took awhile before I became confident enough to coach snowshoeing and then athletics. Both sports that I personally participate in and really enjoy. As a neurodiverse person, Special Olympics PEI has helped me to build up confidence and has given me a passion to help others realize their dreams and seeing dreams of my own happen. It is all about believing in yourself which is really the only challenge that needs to be overcome.

What are you most looking forward to at the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games?

I am most looking forward to meeting other coaches and athletes from across Canada, supporting PEI athletes while they compete and celebrating of their successes, and seeing sport on a National level.

What is your favourite Special Olympics moment?

Watching our athletes at our Annual Awards event and seeing their excitement and enthusiasm. Knowing that they have overcome many challenges to be on that stage, I love celebrating with Special Olympics PEI!

What does being a part of Team PEI 2026 mean to you?

Being a part of Team PEI 2026 comes after 1 lot of years planning and preparing. I am excited to be a part of this team and I am looking forward to supporting our Athletics athletes. A busy time but as a coach it is a time to sit back and watch where all the training has brought our athletes to. And yes, winning will be an added addition but participation alone is very important and special. In essence it will be a week of excitement, experience and learning.