Jassie Chan with Izabela Wasiela

When Izabela Wasiela first met Michael, the non-verbal autistic boy was frustrated that he could not speak or run and play like other children. Now after a decade of effort, Michael can use simple language and has greater confidence and physical strength. The difference in his life is dramatic. His story is just one of the reasons that Wasiela volunteers each Saturday with Special Olympics B.C. Vancouver. In 2010, the sales rep at Sutton Group – Seafair in Richmond began coaching swimmers and weight trainers with special needs.

“I studied at UBC and completed a Bachelor of Human Kinetics majoring in Physical Education with a minor in Family Studies and Social work,” says Wasiela. “In my third year, I was required to do some volunteer work involving people with disabilities and physical activity. I volunteered at the Kitsilano Community Centre in their TLC life skills program for special needs teens and was hooked! I found it so incredibly rewarding and felt I had something I could add to the program with my education and background as an athlete.”

One day, a parent approached Wasiela and asked if she would be willing to spend time once a week with her special needs daughter. At the time, Jassie was in her mid-20s.

“It was through Jassie that I got involved in the Special Olympics. I’d take her out on a Saturday to go for lunch then to her swimming and soccer practices. As I sat watching, I knew I wanted to become a coach.” She now coaches Special Olympians of all ages. The youngest she has worked with was 12-years-old and the oldest was 50.