BY CAMILLE WHITLOW
PALS Volunteer Coordinator
With 8 weeks until the start of summer, PALS Program Leads are currently planning and preparing the BEST week for Participants and Volunteers. Since January, Program Leads have been working with PALS Staff to receive training, plan, and facilitate a week-long, overnight program this summer. Program Leads work as a team of two people to build a fun and inclusive schedule, welcome participants, and put the mission of PALS into action. Let’s hear from a few Program Leads this National Volunteer Month to learn about what inspires them to be a Volunteer Leader at PALS.
Mike, PALS Philadelphia I Program Lead
PALS is the only place where I feel like I can truly be myself. The relationships I have formed and the memories I have created will be something I cherish forever! Volunteering at PALS has showed me what a world of belonging truly looks like and is something I try to bring to every aspect of my life. No matter if I'm in the grocery store, at the gym, or just at my desk at work, I always try to create a sense of inclusion and belonging with, and for, the ones around me.
Lucy, PALS Pittsburgh Program Lead
I chose to volunteer at PALS, because of the great mission of spreading a world of belonging. I keep coming back to PALS because of the community. PALS has impacted my life through meeting all of its participants. I love that with PALS I get to meet people from all over the country. I also love that the mission of PALS is to show the world how awesome people with Down syndrome are.
CJ, PALS DC Program Lead
I originally got involved with PALS in 2015 — my younger brother had participated as a Partner the year prior. The magic from my first summer (shoutout to PALS Philly!) was special, and I’ve continued to find that same magic all these years later. It’s through PALS that I’ve been able to meet some of the best, coolest people I’ve come to know! My experience with PALS has changed my life dramatically. Despite my experience with those with Down syndrome (my brother and I are only 2 years apart!), PALS allowed me to learn even more, not only about our awesome Partners and Peers, but about myself, too. I’m grateful for all of the friends I’ve been able to make and hangout with through PALS, as well as the growth I’ve seen in myself personally and socially.
Stay tuned as you might see Mike, Lucy, and CJ at your programs this summer! They are the creative minds behind your schedule, activities, and so much more. Each Program Lead brings the mission of PALS in tangible and meaningful ways through programming and relationship building. The PALS magic is coming soon near you thanks to each Program Lead!