My SOAR Story: Dawn Yates

When I was first asked to help raise funds for Special Olympics through our local REALTOR® board, I honestly thought my broker husband—who was serving as our local board president at the time—was crazy for appointing me to chair the fundraising committee.

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Life had dealt me some serious gut punches, and I was walking through one of the most difficult seasons of my life. I didn't feel capable of helping anyone. More importantly, I didn't see my own value.

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Believing it was simply part of the job, I recruited fellow REALTORS® to assist with volunteer opportunities and began attending Special Olympics events. We invited athletes to our fundraisers and participated in many activities, including the once-in-a-lifetime Special Olympics Unified Relay Across America.

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Every event left an impression on me. The opportunity to high-five athletes, congratulate them, interact with them, and even place ribbons around their necks was incredibly rewarding.

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But the greatest impact came from watching them.

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I witnessed their passion, determination, commitment, and relentless drive to be better. During one of the biggest personal challenges of my life, these athletes taught me something I desperately needed to learn: no matter what obstacles stand in your way, keep striving. Keep pushing forward. Stay determined. Stay committed. And never forget your value.

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No matter what people may say, every one of us has a purpose.

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These incredible athletes taught me one of the most valuable lessons of my life. Because of them, I found strength when I needed it most. I am deeply grateful and truly blessed to continue to be a part of the Special Olympics family.

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My heart will forever be full of gratitude.