Joanne heads to Minnestoa this June to lead Virginia’s bocce team. She has been involved in the Special Olympics organization since 1987. In addition to bocce, she has also coached track & field, swimming, and basketball. Joanne has built lasting friendships with fellow coaches through Special Olympics, connecting with people far beyond the small community where she lives while growing her skills across multiple sports. A longtime educator, she recently completed 40 years in the same school district working in special education and was honored with the Special Olympics Virginia Winning Spirit Award for her dedication.
“Special Olympics has allowed me to be appreciative of the small wins, to cherish every day as it comes, and to be thankful for the current situation that I live in,” Joanne says. Through her years of involvement, she has come to value not only the victories on the field, but also the everyday moments that make the experience so meaningful.