Celebrating Our Volunteers

As we continue celebrating National Volunteer Month, today we recognize Special Olympics Florida coach Valerie Lundin of Pasco County. For 40 years, Val has supported our athletes in almost every role possible. She’s been an event volunteer, a county director, a games director, and most notably a coach. She’s coached 11 different sports and shaped the lives of countless athletes.

No matter how much she does for her athletes, no matter how hard she works, Val believes she gets more from them than they get from her. Last year, Val received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Special Olympics North America.

“They show more courage every day than a lot of us do,” she says of her athletes. “I feel they’ve taught me more than I’ve taught them. Over the years, they have inspired and challenged me to help them reach their full potential.”

Thanks to Val and all our amazing volunteers.