Uniting Hearts and Abilities: The Special Olympics Fosters Inclusion and Connection
In the vibrant realm of the Special Olympics, champions are not just measured by their medals but by the unity, empowerment and joy they bring to everyone they touch. Susan St. John is a powerhouse of dedication and passion and has seen the extraordinary impact of this movement. As the coordinator for Owasso Public School’s Special Olympics team and Unified Champion Schools programs, Susan has dedicated over two decades to fostering inclusivity, building community and transforming lives.
Promoting Inclusivity Through Unified Sports
“At Owasso, we believe in the power of Unified Sports,” Susan said.
Unified Sports is a hallmark of the Green Country Special Olympics program, which includes Tulsa and Creek County. It brings students with and without disabilities together to train, compete and build friendships through sports. With nearly 200 students participating in over 10 sports, Owasso fosters a sense of belonging and unity that extends far beyond the playing field.
The commitment to inclusion has resonated across the campuses within the district, thanks to the Unified Champion Schools program. The program encourages inclusivity through sports and empowers students to take on leadership roles and engage in inclusive activities throughout the school year.
Two Decades of Dedication
Susan St. John’s commitment to the cause stems from personal experience as the parent of an athlete. Her daughter, Chelsea, was among the first to experience the transformative impact of the Special Olympics.
“This is my 20th year involved in the Special Olympics and my 19th year as the head coach for Owasso,” she said. Her younger daughter, Vanessa Borders, has also become a Unified partner and carried on her involvement as a coach.
The Power of Connection and Pure Joy
Susan said athletes form bonds and connections through Unified Sports. “The joy is just so pure and something you really can’t experience anywhere else,” she said. Unified partners play a crucial role in providing support and genuine friendship. These connections become potent catalysts for change, spreading acceptance, empathy and respect.
Building Stronger Communities
The Special Olympics isn’t just about sports but about creating a more accepting, inclusive community. “Sports like bowling, bocce and cornhole are so universal,” she said, and the athletes continue to enjoy the sports long after their Special Olympics experience. Beyond physical skills, athletes also learn essential life lessons of perseverance, sportsmanship and teamwork.
Celebrating Growth and Unity
For participants and families, the Special Olympics offers a unique opportunity for growth and shared experiences.
“Families enjoy coming out and cheering their athletes and watching them grow, learn new skills, experience the joy of winning and also how to accept defeat graciously,” Susan said.
The program provides a platform for athletes to thrive, families to bond and everyone involved to learn the value of sportsmanship and mutual respect.
A Tribute to People and Possibilities
Susan said it is hard to choose just one aspect of the Special Olympics as her favorite. “Wow, that’s a really hard question to answer, but I would have to say the people!” she said. From the athletes’ determination to the Unified Partners’ dedication and the unwavering support of families, the Special Olympics is a testament to the potential of human connection.
Illuminating Abilities
Susan’s daughter, Vanessa Borders, recognizes her role as a Special Olympics coach and special education teacher. “It’s nice for us to see our students shine,” she said. “Yeah, they have a disability and may not be able to do things the same way everyone else can, but that doesn’t mean they can’t do it.”
Vanessa’s involvement began early, influenced by her family’s strong ties to the Special Olympics. The involvement of her inspirational mom and sister, and even her dad as a coach, drew her into the movement at the age of 10.
“Once you start volunteering and participating, you don’t want to stop,” Vanessa said. Her journey from a Unified partner to a dedicated coach exemplifies the lasting impact of this movement.
Triumphing Over Challenges, Forging Connections
Jayden Brown, Ben Okwufulueze and Zoya Urban are three Special Olympics athletes that have benefited from their unique journeys. They highlighted the growth, friendship and resilience that have defined their experiences.
(L-R) Jayden Brown, Ben Okwufulueze and Zoya Urban
Jayden, a Super Senior who has been part of the Special Olympics since fourth grade, emphasized the importance of hard work and the thrill of victory in sport. “When you work hard, you win. It’s best always to try your hardest,” Jayden said. Super Seniors are students on the autism spectrum who have finished their high school curriculum but choose to remain in an educational setting until they reach the age of 21.
Ben, another Super Senior, likes playing games and connecting with others. “I met a lot of people, and they all know me. I am a celebrity,” he chuckles. The camaraderie and recognition he experiences reflect the power of shared experiences within the Special Olympics community.
Zoya, another Super Senior, enjoys the fun and friendships the Special Olympics foster. “I meet a lot of people, and we become real good friends,” she said. For Zoya, the program is an avenue to connect with her family and even embark on a new adventure with an upcoming cheerleading competition.
A Call to Unity
It’s clear the Special Olympics has touched many lives. The movement is a catalyst for unity, growth and transformation but still needs help.
“I encourage everyone to volunteer for a Special Olympic event,” Vanessa said. “By doing so, we not only contribute to the success of the events but also experience firsthand the joy, acceptance and camaraderie that define the Special Olympics spirit.”
Susan and Vanessa’s unwavering dedication to the Special Olympics underscores the profound impact committed individuals can have on a community. Through their leadership and passion, they exemplify how positive change can help others.
The Special Olympics is a testament to the extraordinary transformation experienced when individuals come together to embrace differences, champion abilities and create a more inclusive world. Through the stories of athletes like Jayden, Ben and Zoya, and the unwavering dedication of coaches like Vanessa and Susan, the Special Olympics is a powerful force of unity and empowerment that ripples through communities and touches lives in profound ways.
To become a volunteer for the Special Olympics, go to the Special Olympics Oklahoma webpage and click the “Get Involved” tab.
Dr. Tamecca Rogers is Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Tulsa Technology Center. She is a writer and mom to three boys who love adventures.
