During the weekend of March 13 and 14, I was given the opportunity to work closely with the Special Olympics of Massachusetts Organization. The Special Olympics brings the best of sports to people with intellectual disabilities worldwide through fundamental principles of dignity and equality. Their message to the community is: people with intellectual disabilities can and will succeed if given the opportunity. It was a great experience to be acquainted with such wonderful individuals with hearts of gold. I loved getting to know everyone and hearing each unique story of theirs, all so very endearing. I was so amazed with each of the athletes and the determination and ambitions they had in life. It was such a breath of fresh air to see the dreams they all had. I traveled to several schools throughout the Worcester Area to help host some of the games and hand out the medals of the winners. I went to Clark University, Holy Cross, Assumption College, Worcester Academy, and Worcester Vocational High School. The Special Olympics were held at those schools, each hosting a different event. I went to the basketball games, floor hockey games, and bowling. My favorite of course, since I play the sport, was basketball! I met some wonderful individuals as the games. They were so caring and wholehearted. It was heart-touching because everyone was there excited to play their games and would see me and some would even run off the court to say hello and give me a hug! I have never felt so appreciated in my entire life. And I knew that at that moment, that was exactly where I was meant to be. I realized how passionate I was about impacting others lives and making a difference. While I was going around introducing myself to some of the athletes, one girl named Melissa came up to me and said, "Your so pretty. I want to look just like you. I want to be you. My dream is to be Miss Massachusetts Teen USA." So, before I even said anything I took off my sash and put it around her. Then I looked at her and held her hand and said, "You are more beautiful than you could ever imagine. You will be Miss Massachusetts Teen USA one day!" She gave me a hug and said, "Thank you, you mean a lot to me. I will never forget you." I can say this much, I will never forget her either. She touched my heart that day. I loved every minute of being a part of the weekend and being able to award the athletes for their wonderful accomplishments. It is a weekend that remains close to my heart. I will never for it. It was great to be able to help these individuals achieve greater things, on and off the field; in turn, they inspire.