Jay Parsons
Award: Heart of SOE
All About Jay
Three fun facts about Jay
1.He was a firefighter in the air force
2.He is a very active person and he loves being outdoors
3. His dogs are his kids; their names are Brody and Jack
In his time outside Special Olympics he….
Enjoys spending a lot of time with his dogs and wife Michelle outdoors. Him and his wife have recently taken up gardening over the past summer and they really enjoy it! Jay is currently renovating his house and spends a lot of time wood working in his shop.
We asked Jay if he could travel to one place in the world and have lunch with anyone, where would he go and who would he have lunch with.
He would go to New Zealand, South Island and have lunch with Derek Wieda (One legged CrossFit-er). He was a soldier from Afghanistan and has an amazing story overcoming hurdles
If Jay had to be any animal he would be…
An Orangutan! He is fascinated by them and believes they are the most human like – but only exhibit the good people traits. He relates to them.
Special Olympics Involvement
Years and areas of service
Thanks to his wife’s recommendation, Jay has been involved with our community for just over two years! In that time, he has coached bowling, golf and bocce ball and has volunteered for more events and committees than you can count!
How Special Olympics has impacted his life
It’s changed his career path! Since joining Special Olympics he would like to to do more in this field and community. He thinks working at at the grass roots level is absolutely huge and inspiring.
His advice for someone new who wanted to become involved with Special Olympics
Have fun and remember it’s all about the athletes. Leave your personal baggage at the door. Come in and just look at what’s in front you and know why you’re there. Take a moment, sit back and just take it all in
A memorable Special Olympics moment for him
There was an athlete at the golf program he coaches who didn’t speak to him very much. On one of the last golf sessions last summer, the athlete talked to him!
About this award
Jay was nominated for this award and chosen by people in his community. He had a few words to say about this,,,
Thank you very much. I didn’t get involved to win the award. I feel like there are a lot more deserving people – coaches, parents etc. They are deserving of this award. I appreciate this more than I will ever be able to express.