From Gander to Fredericton: Anna Paterson’s Growing Impact in Special Olympics
For Anna Paterson, getting involved with Special Olympics wasn’t just about volunteering. “I had enjoyed volunteering back home so much,” she said. “I saw the importance of the program and what impact I could make just by giving up a few hours in my week.” It quickly became a meaningful part of her life, one that continues to grow as she gives back both at home and away at university.
Anna first joined Special Olympics Newfoundland and Labrador in 2024, volunteering with a weekly swimming program in Gander after hearing about the opportunity through a family friend involved with the Gander Wings club. “I had heard about this program through a family friend who was involved with our local Special Olympics club, Gander Wings, who then provided me with contact information to apply as a volunteer,” Anna shared. “I volunteered as a recreational swimming coach from fall 2024 to spring 2025.”
Her impact didn’t stop there. “I then went on to coach a bocce team for the provincial summer games where our team placed third in our division,” she said. In recognition of her dedication and leadership, Anna was also named Special Olympics NL’s 2025 Rising Star Coach of the Year.
Continuing the Journey at University
When Anna left Newfoundland and Labrador to attend St. Thomas University in Fredericton, she knew she didn’t want to leave Special Olympics behind. “When I left for university, I decided to explore possible opportunities in Special Olympics because I had enjoyed volunteering back home so much,” she said. “It worked out well as I could use it as a break from school and studying and something to give me a little bit of a routine in my week. I knew it was something I enjoyed that I could do for myself.”
In Fredericton, Anna quickly became involved with Special Olympics New Brunswick. “Once I moved to Fredericton in the fall I reached out to SONB where I applied to volunteer with the SMART Start program,” she explained. “I ended up organizing some activities for the kids and along with some other amazing volunteers, we had a pretty fun Wednesday evening to look forward to. I also volunteer with the S.P.R.I.N.G program where we are paired with our buddy and spend time working on many different skills.”
A Moment That Stands Out
Among her many experiences, one memory continues to stand out for Anna. “One of my favorite memories in Special Olympics would be during the 2025 summer games getting to coach my team of four athletes and watch them go up on the stage to get their medals,” she said. “Watching their excitement and hard work pay off is unforgettable. Seeing the impact I had, even as a coach, was something that stuck with me.”
Life Beyond Special Olympics
Outside of her volunteer work, Anna is focused on her education and personal growth. “I am attending St Thomas University where I am hoping to pursue a Bachelor of Social Work,” she said. “I recently accepted the role of Campus Tour Coordinator as a new position which will allow me to connect with prospective students. I am a tutor to many lovely students and in my minimal spare time I enjoy spending time in the gym, playing volleyball, music and spending time with people I love.”
A Message to Future Volunteers
For other university students or anyone considering getting involved, Anna has a simple message. “Just reach out. Try it out and give it a go because chances are you may just love it even if you don’t think you’re cut out for it,” she said. “There are so many opportunities.”
Anna Paterson’s journey continues to show the impact of giving back, both in her home community and in Fredericton, as she helps create meaningful experiences for athletes through Special Olympics.