“It’s incredible to see how much confidence and joy the athletes gain through every opportunity to compete and connect," Amanda said.
Amanda’s connection to Special Olympics Virginia began through her role at Sentara, a statewide partner supporting volunteer engagement, Healthy Athletes programming, and broader community impact initiatives. In her work supporting corporate volunteer efforts, she was introduced to the mission of Special Olympics Virginia and quickly drawn in by the intentionality, care and energy behind every event and interaction. What began as a professional partnership soon became a personal commitment to service.
In September 2025, Amanda joined the 757 Young Professionals Board (YPB), where she found a meaningful space to connect with others who share a passion for community impact while also growing as emerging leaders. For her, the YPB has been more than a volunteer opportunity — it has been a platform to step into leadership in a unique way, using her voice, network and passions to help create connections and expand opportunities for others. At its core, the experience has reinforced the importance of community and the value of consistently showing up in service of something larger than oneself.
Through her involvement, Amanda has supported and participated in signature events such as the VA Beach Polar Plunge and has had the honor of leading the Athlete Oath at Fall Championships — moments she describes as both humbling and full of joy. Each experience has deepened her appreciation for the athletes and the volunteers who make these events possible, and strengthened her belief in the transformative power of inclusion and sport.
One of the most meaningful parts of her journey has been the ability to witness and share in moments of personal impact. Hearing athletes speak about the confidence and pride they’ve gained through Special Olympics Virginia continues to reaffirm for her why the work matters. These are not just events — they are experiences that build connection, belonging and possibility.
When asked what she would say to someone considering volunteering, Amanda encourages them simply: go for it. “It’s not only a chance to give back, but also to grow personally and be part of something truly impactful. You get to be part of a journey that builds confidence, connection and possibility for everyone involved.”
What stands out most to Amanda Simpson in her involvement with Special Olympics Virginia is the people — especially the athletes, whose pride, joy and determination stay with her long after each event, and the volunteers who often leave with a renewed sense of purpose. For her, the experience is consistently powerful and grounding.
“It’s incredible to see how much confidence and joy the athletes gain through every opportunity to compete and connect," Amanda said.
Amanda’s connection to Special Olympics Virginia began through her role at Sentara, a statewide partner supporting volunteer engagement, Healthy Athletes programming, and broader community impact initiatives. In her work supporting corporate volunteer efforts, she was introduced to the mission of Special Olympics Virginia and quickly drawn in by the intentionality, care and energy behind every event and interaction. What began as a professional partnership soon became a personal commitment to service.
In September 2025, Amanda joined the 757 Young Professionals Board (YPB), where she found a meaningful space to connect with others who share a passion for community impact while also growing as emerging leaders. For her, the YPB has been more than a volunteer opportunity — it has been a platform to step into leadership in a unique way, using her voice, network and passions to help create connections and expand opportunities for others. At its core, the experience has reinforced the importance of community and the value of consistently showing up in service of something larger than oneself.
Through her involvement, Amanda has supported and participated in signature events such as the VA Beach Polar Plunge and has had the honor of leading the Athlete Oath at Fall Championships — moments she describes as both humbling and full of joy. Each experience has deepened her appreciation for the athletes and the volunteers who make these events possible, and strengthened her belief in the transformative power of inclusion and sport.
One of the most meaningful parts of her journey has been the ability to witness and share in moments of personal impact. Hearing athletes speak about the confidence and pride they’ve gained through Special Olympics Virginia continues to reaffirm for her why the work matters. These are not just events — they are experiences that build connection, belonging and possibility.
When asked what she would say to someone considering volunteering, Amanda encourages them simply: go for it. “It’s not only a chance to give back, but also to grow personally and be part of something truly impactful. You get to be part of a journey that builds confidence, connection and possibility for everyone involved.”
