As a parent you look forward to your child reaching certain milestones. Their first smile, their first words, their first steps…but what if it doesn’t happen? This was the case for Alma Loken’s parents. Their adorable little girl took a much longer time to walk than children her age. When Alma finally walked, she couldn’t do so independently. Alma has Williams Syndrome, a genetic condition that typically occurs with medical and developmental problems. Her parents were notably worried about their daughter’s development.

Over the past 5 years, Special Olympics Ontario has increased focus and resources to promote our cause, and encourage parents to register and engage children as young as 2 years with the movement. Research has proven that engaging mobility & motor skills at a young age can be of great benefit long term.

Alma’s family discovered the Active Start program in 2015. They enrolled Alma, whose bubbly and charming personality captured the hearts of program volunteers over the years. Alma may be small, but she exhibits huge determination. Over the course of the program, she’s learned to walk on her own. She even ran for the first time, which was a joyful and emotional milestone, especially for her family. Jumping, skipping, and kicking a ball are just a few of her accomplishments. Alma hopes to learn how to figure skate and participate in rhythmic gymnastics as she grows up. Her dream is to represent Canada at a Special Olympics World Games someday.

Special Olympics Ontario provides a safe space for young children with intellectual disabilities, where they grow and learn through different sporting activities. Together, we can positively change the lives of children like Alma.

Your participation helps us create more opportunities for individuals like Alma.  Opportunities to train, compete, make friends – Special Olympics is a place where they belong and you are playing an important role. Thank you again for helping promote a vision of inclusion and acceptance that is changing so many lives.

With your support so much is possible when we join together to help!