Billy Smith

Athlete of the Month

Billy has been a Special Olympics Colorado athlete for 2 years and got involved through a friend from high school. He competes in track, football, basketball, bocce ball, bowling, and powerlifting, embracing every chance to challenge himself and grow as an athlete.

Football is his favorite sport. As a huge sports fan, being on the field gives him confidence and pride. “It makes me feel like a pro athlete when we have a team fundraiser or Special Olympics events,” Billy says. “It makes me feel like an inspirational athlete to my peers and others.”

One of his favorite memories with Special Olympics Colorado is scoring his first touchdown in flag football. After being overlooked in high school, the moment reminded him of his ability and strength. “It made me realize I’m still athletic and can achieve new goals as well,” Billy says. The touchdown also meant a lot as a tribute to his uncle, a devoted Broncos fan who passed away just months earlier.

Billy loves that Special Olympics Colorado gives him the chance to play multiple sports and represent his state. “I get to build my legacy and represent Colorado, just like in movies and books,” he shares.

When he’s not competing, Billy is an athlete leader, a role he truly enjoys. He said he likes learning new skills that help him in the workplace and allow him to show his family an example of what an athlete leader looks like. He was inspired to become an athlete leader because of the show, “All American” and said he wants to lead his teammates to victory, but even if they don’t win, he wants to be able to support them as well.

We are excited to recognize Billy as our April Athlete of the Month. Congratulations!

Rick “Worm” Charbonneau

Volunteer of the Month

Worm has been a proud member of the GOC and a passionate volunteer with Special Olympics Colorado for more than 20 years. He first got involved while serving on an advisory board for ACTS (Assisting the Community Through Service) at The Denver Newspaper Agency, where he helped organize volunteer opportunities for employees and their families. One of those projects was a regional bowling tournament for Special Olympics Colorado, which sparked what would become two decades of meaningful involvement.

Worm’s reason for coming back year after year is easy: the athletes. “ They are dedicated, inspiring, motivated and are great friends,” he exclaimed. From medal ceremonies that never fail to bring tears of pride, to unforgettable hugs, every event leaves a lasting impact.

One of his favorite memories is attending the Special Olympics Colorado Hall of Fame banquet, where guests run past a tunnel of cheering athletes on their way into the ballroom. “It’s an amazing feeling being surrounded by so much talent and excitement,” Worm says, and he feels it perfectly captures the heart of SOCO.

Worm also treasures the people he serves alongside on the Games Organizing Committee. What started as volunteering has grown into lifelong friendships. “The people I work with on the GOC are some of the best people a person could hope to meet in the entire world,” he says. “They are all great friends and we all consider each other as family. They all toil selflessly and tirelessly to make sure that every event is an amazing experience for every single SOCO athlete!”

Thank you, Worm, for 20+ years of dedication, heart, and unwavering support of the Special Olympics Colorado community!