Thomas’ story: Project ACTION! Co-President Thomas Mangrum, Jr., shared that Special Olympics is very important to him because it was the first place that acknowledged him and his abilities; and not his disability. When he participates in DC Special Olympics, he is always treated with respect and supported to be his authentic self; a gay, black man with a disability. Thomas won a Gold medal in the Salmon race and placed 5th place in the shot put. 

Ricardo’s story: Ricardo Thornton, Sr., Project ACTION! Co-President said he started participating in Special Olympics when he lived at Forest Haven. Everyone who lived there could participate in the games, and if they placed well in the competitions, they would leave Forest Haven to travel to DC to compete with other Olympians.  He said he will always love Special Olympics and the opportunities it has provided him and his wife, Donna. He shared that he was able to represent Special Olympics and visit the White House and meet Presidents Barack Obama, George Bush, Sr., and Bill Clinton. Experiences he will cherish all his life. Ricardo said, “I committed myself to advocacy by seeing so many people being mistreated around me, and I want them to get the same opportunities I have had. I have been able to visit South Africa and meet Nelson Mandela. I carried a torch at Robert’s Island, where Mandela was imprisoned, that represented a flame of hope. Eunice Kennedy Shriver started Special Olympics, and she was trying to change people’s mindsets about disability. I have been blessed to travel to Europe, New Haven, Connecticut, and other parts of the country. I always speak out and let our voices be heard and encourage others that if they believe they can, they can do it. 

Lindsey’s story: Lindsey Wilkes has been active in Special Olympics for over 20 years. This year he will travel to Orlando, FL, to represent the District of Columbia at the World Summer Games in track and field events. Lindsey recently retired from Sodexho after working over 25 years at National Geographic. He enjoys being active throughout the year, bowling, dancing, being with family and friends, and is looking forward to traveling more. He has traveled to Iceland and several other countries to compete and participate in national advocacy conferences.
Quality Trust congratulates all the athletes for their performance and commitment.