Photo By Senior Airman Gabriel Jones | Medals were given to Exceptional Family Member Program and Special Olympics Field Day...... read more read more
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JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas— The Military and Family Readiness Center, in coordination with Special Olympics held the inaugural Special Olympics field day June 18, 2025 on Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph.
The field day welcomed active-duty, retired, National Guard and Reserve military members with family members who have special needs across JBSA to come together and participate in various games, crafts and interactive activities.
Sheila Dean, Exceptional Family Member Program family support navigator, organized the event to bring the community together and offer military families a fun-filled day of activities.
“I felt a strong sense of responsibility to ensure the event was both meaningful and seamless,” said Dean. “Seeing the smiles on the faces of attendees was a powerful affirmation that the event made a positive impact.”
The event was designed to build a sense of community and provide fun activities for families enrolled in EFMP. Volunteers ran stations offering food, games, and arts and crafts, while informational booths included activities such as ring toss, coloring books, and tie-dye T-shirts.
Taylor Harris brought her two children to give them a chance to connect with others facing similar challenges.
“I think it's really fun for Barrett to just get out and play,” said Harris. “It's nice for me as a mom to meet other moms.”
Special Olympics Texas provided interactive games and activities for attendees while raising awareness about its programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families.
“We provide year-round competitions to individuals with intellectual disabilities,” said Jenna Weaver, community outreach director for Special Olympics Texas in San Antonio. “You can see anything across Texas; sailing, swimming, bocce, basketball and more.”
Weaver stated that Special Olympics help athletes stay active and socially connected year-round through required training, competitions, and health services, noting that many lose access to physical activity and peer interaction after high school.
“Special Olympics has opened doors I never thought would be open,” said Bruce Clark, Special Olympics staff member and athlete. “I get to build connections and grow friendships with people, with and without disabilities.”
Organizers are already planning a similar Special Olympics event on JBSA projected for 2026.
“Details for the next event are still being developed,” said Dean. “The vision is to create a unified experience for participants and families from across the JBSA installation with a collaborative and engaging experience.”
| Date Taken: | 06.18.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 06.26.2025 13:57 |
| Story ID: | 501516 |
| Location: | JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, TEXAS, TEXAS, US |
| Web Views: | 38 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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