Special Olympics BC – Vernon’s Debra Pool is a dedicated volunteer who says she is inspired by the excitement and passion SOBC athletes have for their sports.

Pool currently serves as SOBC – Vernon’s Secretary and interim Local Coordinator. She says watching Special Olympics athletes compete is a joyful experience, and she loves how the organization provides them with opportunities to develop sport skills and healthy lifestyle habits.

Pool has a strong family connection to Special Olympics. She was first introduced to SOBC more than 35 years ago when her sister joined as an athlete and her mother signed on as a volunteer. Now, Pool’s foster daughter Elizabeth Isbister competes with SOBC – Vernon, and Pool says it was a thrill to see Elizabeth compete in track and field at the 2017 SOBC Summer Games in Kamloops.

When did you start with Special Olympics, and how did you get involved?

I joined the Local Committee in Vernon as Secretary in 2014. I became involved because my foster daughter joined Special Olympics and I felt I should help. But, my exposure to Special Olympics started in 1981 when my sister joined Special Olympics in North Vancouver as an athlete and my mom joined as a volunteer. My mom volunteered with SOBC for over 25 years and two of my children have volunteered. One son is currently volunteering in Vernon with our Club Fit program.

What has been your most memorable Special Olympics experience?

In 1990, I attended the BC Summer Games in Prince George to watch my sister compete in track and field. I loved being in the stands watching the athletes compete with such enthusiasm and joy. It was infectious. Now, fast forward 27 years, and I was thrilled to attend the 2017 SOBC Summer Games in Kamloops this past summer to watch my foster daughter compete in track and field. There is such joy in watching the athletes compete to the best of their abilities while also supporting each other at the same time. It is all about achieving their personal best.

What is your favourite thing about being involved with SOBC?

I love the athletes and their excitement and passion for sports! Special Olympics gives athletes the opportunity to learn about a healthy lifestyle while being able to try many different sports.

What would you like others to know about SOBC – Vernon?

SOBC – Vernon has more than 40 volunteers and 120 athletes registered in 15 sport programs. We are thankful for all of the dedicated volunteers, and many have been with SOBC for years.