A Journey of Inclusion and Transformation with Jen VanSkiver

Empathy Unbound: A Journey of Inclusion and Transformation with Jen VanSkiverIn this episode of 'Empathy Unbound, Embrace Your Superpower', the host welcomes Jen VanSkiver, Chief Officer of Strategic Growth at Special Olympics Michigan.Jen shares her inspirational journey of becoming a key advocate for Special Olympics through her experiences as a mother of a special needs child. She discusses the transformative power of Special Olympics for athletes and their families, emphasizing the importance of acceptance, inclusion, and the profound impact of sports.Jen also elaborates on the creation of Michigan's largest Special Olympics facility, focusing on how it serves as a model for inclusivity and societal integration for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Highlighting personal anecdotes and professional insights, Jennifer illustrates the intersection of her career and personal life, aiming to create a more inclusive world for special needs individuals.00:00 Introduction to Jen VanSkiver00:37 Jen's Journey and Motherhood02:32 Special Olympics Michigan: A Transformational Experience03:16 The Power of Sports and Inclusion07:00 The Kennedy Legacy and Special Olympics09:44 Volunteers: The Backbone of Special Olympics12:15 West Michigan's New Special Olympics Facility17:54 Jen's Career and Commitment23:34 Personal Reflections and Family Impact29:54 Balancing Protection and Independence31:05 The Role of Sports in Personal Growth32:20 Special Olympics: Filling the Gap33:43 The Power of Words and Inclusivity38:15 Challenges of Visibility and Accessibility42:34 Investing in the Intellectually Disabled Community48:35 A Mother's Pride and Societal Change52:13 Living the Brand: Personal and Professional Integration54:23 The Impact of Music: A Tribute to Stevie Wonder55:51 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsJen VanSkiver LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-vanskiver-339b737/Special Olympics Michigan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/special-olympics-michigan/Jen FB: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.vanskiverSOMI FB: https://www.facebook.com/SpecialOlympicsMichiganJen Insta: https://www.instagram.com/jenvanskiver/SOMI Insta: https://www.instagram.com/SpOlympicsMI/SOMI Website: https://www.somi.org/ Unified Sports & Inclusion Center: https://www.somi.org/unified-sports-inclusion-center

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