Special Olympics NorCal Honors 2023-2024 Volunteers of the Year

Special Olympics Northern California is proud to recognize an outstanding group of individuals and organizations as our 2023 Volunteers of the Year. The Volunteers of the Year were selected after a lengthy nomination process, and exemplify the dedication and love of the more than 21,000 volunteers who support Special Olympics NorCal annually.

The Volunteers of the Year were honored during the Opening Ceremony of the 2024 Summer Games at Santa Clara University.

Congratulations and thank you to the 2023 Volunteers of the Year!

Coach Chris Gonzales is a highly dedicated and impactful head coach involved in multiple sports including track and field, softball, flag football, and swimming. His responsibilities include organizing practices, events, and tournaments, and he plays a key role in strategic planning committees and leadership conferences too.  Known for putting in countless volunteer hours, Chris’s contributions includes managing equipment and logistics, attending practices and tournaments for various sports, and leading engagement during the COVID-19 pandemic through virtual sessions and the “Brave in the Attempt” group.

Chris is lauded for creating a sense of community and fostering teamwork, ensuring that athletes and coaches feel supported, respected, and appreciated. His positive attitude, empathy, and calm demeanor have earned him high regard from parents, athletes, and fellow coaches. He mentors athletes to become coaches and engages with the community through various events and initiatives. Chris’s impact is evident through the numerous accolades he receives, his role in helping athletes build confidence and skills, and his promotion of their success.

Coach Volunteer of the Year Nominees

Chris Gonzales, Carl Gayle, Cathi Aurich, Cynthia Jones, Diane Bacon, Jenn Wilson-Marchino, Mike Bandy, Jose Baron, Carolyn Weeks, Brittany Pester, Cara Jane Ford, Curtis Young, Adam Goldberg, Ashley Downs, Bonnie & Ross & Brook Silverman, Christine Costamagna, Christopher Ochoa, Daniel A. Escobar, Danielle Deaver, Debbie Donnahoe, Debi Fox, Denise Caldwell, Eric Bodas, Greg McKinney, Jackie Wheeler, Jason Weatherby, Joanne Larkin, John Drenth, Katherine Hawkins, Lauren Romanazzi, Lisa Tomasello, Lori McNalley, Margaret Viele, Maria Falcon, Mark & Laurie Milton, Matt Haygood, Michelle Story, Mike Inchausti, Pat Diskin, Penny Chandler, Sara Formslag, Scott Ebert, Sharon Scudero, Steve & Jennifer Highland, Susan Criswell, Teresa Cho, Will Horyn

Jason Guillaume has made significant contributions to Special Olympics NorCal in many ways. As part of the Athlete Leadership Program, Jason has honed his public speaking skills, which he uses to advocate for and fundraise for Special Olympics NorCal. Jason actively engages in events like the Law Enforcement Torch Run and has represented Special Olympics NorCal at Capitol Hill Days, effectively communicating about the organization’s impact to government officials. His dedication extends to participating in law enforcement meetings and serving on panels.

Jason’s commitment to promoting inclusion is evident through his advocacy, public speaking, and fundraising efforts. His supportive nature shines through in his role in awarding medals at the Sacramento Polar Plunge, and his ongoing support within the Sac County Chargers team. Jason’s dedication, leadership, and enthusiasm make him truly deserving of recognition as the Athlete Volunteer of the Year.

Athlete Volunteer of the Year Nominees

Jason Guillaume, Christy Dodge, Dean Logan, Ellen Yao, Jennifer Hall, Katina Aitkens, Ryan Epidendio

Therapeutic Recreation Services (TRS) has been an essential program partner for the Sac County Chargers since their inception in 1983. TRS staff members not only handle administrative duties for the Chargers, but also volunteer as coaches for practices and tournaments. Their involvement extends to committees with Special Olympics NorCal, contributing ideas and participating in organizational meetings. TRS supports a large team, serving hundreds of athletes annually, without whom managing the Sac County Chargers would be challenging.

Beyond their core support, TRS offers additional recreational opportunities such as a Walking Club, softball league, and Bocce club, fostering a love for sports among participants who often join other Special Olympics NorCal teams. Their annual 5K event, aligned with Special Olympics NorCal’s Walking Club training, enhances community involvement and inclusivity, benefiting athletes of all abilities and community members alike.

Community Group of the Year Nominees

Therapeutic Recreation Services (TRS), Kiwanis Clubs of Fresno, Kiwanis Club of Clovis, Santa Clara Eagles Golf Team, Shoreline Golf Links, Mountain View CA, Team Davis, Very Inspirational People (VIP), Warriors Academy (Oakland)

Since 2016, Heidi Pham-Murphy and Chelsey Pham have made an extraordinary impact on the Healthy Athletes program across Northern California. This dynamic duo’s dedication  has been evident in their work at numerous events, including the Summer Games, the Oakland Health Fair, and the Ripon Soccer Regional Competition.

Heidi and Chelsey have not only led more than 600 screenings, but they’ve also trained more than 200 volunteers across eight events. Their commitment extends beyond the screenings; they actively manage a Facebook page to recruit and update volunteers and engage with colleges and universities to ensure robust student volunteer participation.

Their can-do attitudes and exceptional service have made their screenings among the most requested, enriching the experiences of athletes, volunteers, and our overall community.

Jamie Barrett, founder and executive creative director at Barrett Hofherr, has made an indelible impact on Special Olympics NorCal through his agency’s pro-bono work and strategic initiatives. His efforts helped secure more than $750,000 in donated media for the “Do Something Special” brand campaign in 2023, encompassing local TV, radio, outdoor billboards, movie theaters, PR, digital, and social media promotion.

This campaign attracted new young athletes and volunteers to Special Olympics and significantly elevated the perception and awareness of the organization across Northern California. Jamie’s efforts were further recognized with Barrett Hofherr winning a number of awards, including a Silver National Effie Award, six ADDY Awards, led by a Silver National ADDY Award, a Gold Global Indie Award, among others.

Philanthropy Volunteer of the Year Nominees

Jamie Barrett & Barrett Hofherr, David Tuttle, Dreyer Babich Buccola Wood Campora (DBBWC), Mike Teske & Flyers Energy, Polly St. Geme, Raley’s, Reese Gebo, Stephen Silver Fine Jewelry, Brandon Tatro & Topgolf San Jose, Dominic Sirianni & Topgolf Roseville, Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation / Cache Creek Casino Resort

Adam Goldberg, the Area Director for Merced and a dedicated coach, has shown a deep level of commitment to the Special Olympics program. He offered selfless leadership in stepping up when there was a need for an area director, advocating for athletes, and ensuring they have a fun and inclusive sports experience.

Adam not only coaches and coordinates events, he goes above and beyond by personally funding many program expenses and sacrificing his own resources for the benefit of the athletes. His passion and dedication have been instrumental in developing and expanding Special Olympics in Merced, earning him admiration from athletes, parents, and the community.

Program Support Volunteer of the Year Nominees

Adam Goldberg, Brandy Borges, Carol Davidson, Cathy Saderlund, Chuck Buettner, Colleen Wilson, Donna Hollis, Jamie Ensminger, Jenn Wilson-Marchino, Jonathan Ching, Jules Walton, Kenna Wohlford, Pat Diskin, Shirley Surber, Tim Curry, TJ Fetters

Sergeant Priscilla Silva of the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office has been a driving force behind the Law Enforcement Torch Run for many years. In 2023, her leadership helped raise nearly $67,000 for Special Olympics NorCal. She is known for her strong community connections, securing volunteer support from local businesses and colleagues. Priscilla’s passion and dedication are evident in every event she organizes, from Tip-A-Cops to the Torch Run and beyond.

Her commitment to inclusivity and athlete engagement has made a profound impact, ensuring that each event becomes a celebration of community spirit and support for Special Olympics NorCal. Her efforts have elevated fundraising efforts and strengthened the bond between law enforcement and the Special Olympics community.

Law Enforcement Torch Run Volunteer of the Year Nominees

Sergeant Priscilla Silva of the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office, Jennifer Bowman, Jodi Williams, Officer Damian Camarena

Hayden Olhiser is the dedicated district coordinator for the Special Olympics Unified Sports Program at Roseville Joint Union High School District (RJUHSD). Her role encompasses organizing and overseeing all Unified Sports activities across the district, including monthly reporting, facilitating meetings, coordinating with teachers, and expanding program participation. Despite not holding an official title, Hayden’s leadership has been instrumental in RJUHSD becoming a model for Unified Sports and inclusion.

Under her guidance, the district has grown to offer Unified Sports at every school she successfully advocated for a new Unified PE class, aligning it with district standards. Hayden’s passion and commitment have significantly increased program participation, impacting nearly 5,000 students last year alone. She fosters a culture of inclusion, actively engages with school boards, and collaborates regionally to enhance Unified Sports offerings. Hayden’s tireless advocacy and willingness to go above and beyond have elevated RJUHSD’s program, making it a leader in the Sacramento Region and a beacon of inclusive education.

Schools Volunteer of the Year Nominees

Hayden Olheiser, Kylie Wheelock-Barrios, Lauren Allard, Michelle Ray, Theresa Bollier

Keagan York made a significant impact in 2023 as both a Unified Flag Football player and coach. Despite being new to coaching, his deep understanding of the game and commitment to inclusion shone through. He patiently assisted athletes, explaining strategies and ensuring everyone had a chance to participate fully. His team’s success in medaling at the Flag Football Tournament and earning an invitation to the Fall Games highlighted his coaching prowess and leadership on the field. Beyond football, Keagan continued his volunteerism by coaching basketball, where his patience and genuine enjoyment of interacting with athletes were evident to all.

His maturity, reliability, and respectfulness made him a trusted presence during team travels and competitions, reflecting his dedication to Special Olympics and his brother Sean, who has been involved for years.

Rookie Volunteer of the Year Nominees

Keagan York, Christian Santana, Doc Lewis, Hunter Anderson, Jessica Escobar, John Reiss, Logan Lloyd, Magaly De Loza

Kyle Velasco has shown remarkable dedication and initiative as a student-coach volunteer and Unified partner over the past three years, assisting with track & field, basketball, softball, and flag football. His efforts extend beyond coaching; he attempted to start a Special Olympics Club at Saint Francis High School, and successfully established a Sport Management and Coaching Club focused on athletic philanthropy and Special Olympics NorCal, attracting over 30 students.

Kyle’s passion for Special Olympics is evident through his leadership and advocacy. As a member of the SFHS Track & Field Leadership Council, he promotes Special Olympics NorCal involvement, facilitates outreach, and supports the volunteer application process. He also secured approval for an adaptive 100M event at a local track meet, and is working to introduce a Special Olympics combined event.

Youth Volunteer of the Year Nominees

Kyle Velasco, Adam Tarr, Alexis Fogal, Catherine Chielpegian, Jacob Bushler, Lily Koch, Morgan Blackwell

Learn about all of our volunteer opportunities