Gold at Winter Special Olympics

Jason and Steve, part of Strawberry Fields, recently won gold at the Special Olympics Pennsylvania Winter Games bowling competition for the second year in a row.

Their journey to the podium began well before the competition. Weeks of practice and time spent together built their confidence on the lanes. With support from their families, coaches, and Direct Support Professionals, they showed up consistently, worked through challenges, and stayed committed to something they care about.

This year's Games were held in York. Nehemiah Mitchell, a Direct Support Professional who was there to support Jason and Steve, shared what the experience was like:

"The first game on Sunday morning was a tough start as Jason and Steve were

struggling to find their rhythm. I reminded them that the most important thing was to have fun. They both smiled, relaxed, and agreed to keep enjoying themselves. By the second game, they caught fire. Jason bowled 3 strikes in a row, and Steve picked up spare after spare, plus a few strikes of his own. Watching their confidence return in real time was unforgettable. It was incredibly exciting to watch Jason and Steve win gold for the second year in a row. The moment their victory was confirmed, we couldn't help but hug and jump for joy. Seeing their hard work pay off was truly special."

Jason and Steve are already aiming for gold again next year. They are grateful for the staff who practice alongside them and everyone who cheers them on.

Special Olympics also gives our Direct Support Professionals a powerful way to encourage physical activity in everyday life. When the staff can say, "Hey, let's take a walk today. It'll help with your bowling," it changes the conversation. Exercise becomes connected to something meaningful, something the person is already excited about. The result is that Jason and Steve are staying more active because they have a reason that matters to them.

At Strawberry Fields, this is what we work toward every day. That our consumers can be part of a team, build a sense of belonging, and participate fully in their community. Sometimes that leads to a gold medal. More often, it looks like showing up, growing in confidence, and taking part in everyday life in ways that feel meaningful and their own.

These moments are built one day at a time.