Kandi Tisone
Athlete of the Month
Kandi has been competing for Special Olympics Colorado since 2011. She competes in softball, basketball, volleyball and is also an assistant coach for her flag football team. Her favorite sports are softball and flag football. Throughout the years, Kandi has received 6 gold medals, 2 silver medals and one bronze medal, which she is very proud of.
“Being a woman with autism keeps me involved with Special Olympics because everyone is the same as me,” Kandi explains. “I love volunteering because it’s a part of my life and I enjoy being an assistant coach and a role model for adults with disabilities.”
One of Kandi’s favorite memories is singing the national anthem at a tournament in Longmont a few years ago. She also had the opportunity to sing the National Anthem at the Unified Showdown between CSU and CU in the past.
Kandi describes her experience with Special Olympics Colorado as rewarding, inclusive and a humbling experience.
Congratulations, Kandi, for being recognized as our January Athlete of the Month!
The Campbell Family
Family of the Month
The Campbell Family has been part of the Special Olympics Colorado movement for 13 years. They got involved because Beverly (mom) wanted to get her son Spencer involved. She wanted him to participate in basketball, and the rest is history. Spencer now competes in golf, soccer, basketball, softball, bowling, flag football and track and field.
Throughout the years, there have been many great memories. One being the first State Summer Games in Grand Junction. Spencer was the goalie for his soccer team and saved a goal. His team was playing against older kids and it was a great accomplishment. “I truly don’t remember if they won or lost that game,” said Beverly. “He was so excited about saving the goal!”
The Campbell’s have also enjoyed the relationship Special Olympics Colorado has with the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR), and have gotten to know many officers throughout the years. This past summer, Spencer had the opportunity to be featured in a Virtual Torch Run. “It was a really cool experience to meet more officers from all over,” explained Beverly.
Beverly said Special Olympics Colorado is a great avenue for Spencer to participate in activities that he can succeed in and the teamwork and camaraderie that comes with it. “It is always a positive experience for him,” said Beverly.
Congratulations to the Campbell Family for being recognized as our January Family of the Month!
