Going for Gold

Seven young men from our May Center for Child Development school in Randolph, Mass., competed in the Special Olympics of Massachusetts Winter Games and came home with gold medals in basketball. Not to be outdone, all 15 May Center students who participated in the Summer Games at Harvard University recently returned with awards as well.

Donnie Kimbrel, Program Coordinator at the May Center, organized and coached the basketball team with Romara Pearsull, the Center’s Assistant Program Coordinator. Group home staff members Dayanne Santos and Ty-Ron Baldwin and many volunteers assisted. All seven students on the basketball team live in May Institute’s community-based residences.

When it came time for the competition at Clark University in Worcester, Mass., they were ready! After their big win, they were presented with individual medals at a special ceremony in front of family members and supporters. They were also honored at a school pep rally.

Donnie, now a certified Special Olympics coach, also organized the “May Center Mayhem,” a team of students that includes female athletes. They competed in a variety of events at the Summer Games including a softball toss, a relay race, and individual races.

Many parents and Center personnel attended the competition and awards ceremony, providing support and sharing in the celebration.

At press time, the Mayhem was practicing for an upcoming bocce tournament. Congratulations to all our competitors and winners!