I was about 6 or 7 years old when I started in the North East Westchester Recreation programs and then about 10 years old when I started the Special Olympics program they run. I made friends when I was younger that have remained life long friends. I’ve grown up With these people and they are like a second family to me. Participating in Special Olympics has helped my self esteem and · self-confidence. I’ve learned to be a team player. I’ve learned that I have responsibilities to help my teammates and myself. I’ve learned that hard work in sports and hard work in life leads to Improvements In my life.