- July 11, 2024
- DawnRatte
- No Comments
Meet Rebecca Bernard
What team do you participate on?
I have participated on the ReFocus team since October of 2012.
What sports do you compete in?
I compete in Bowling. I enjoy bowling because it helps with improving my balance and strength in a fun way. Over the years, I have improved my bowling skills by taking my time and practicing weekly. I help other athletes on my team by cheering them on and being a supportive teammate.
Where did you go to school?
I graduated from Pilgrim High School in Warwick. I have also taken general studies courses at the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI).
Do you have a job?
I don’t currently have a job, but in the future, I would like to work as either a receptionist or a cashier in a sitting position. It is important to me to get a job in a sitting position due to a medical condition. My dream job would be to become a nurse to help others.
Why did you choose to participate in the Athlete Leadership University (ALU)?
I chose to participate in ALU to try something new, to gain new skills, and to make new friends. I’m happy to share that I achieved each of these goals.
What do you hope to accomplish as a result of your involvement with this program?
I hope to become a better leader and a better role model for my fellow athletes. One of the ways I’ve been able to apply the leadership skills I gained through my participation in ALU is by creating an Athlete Leadership Council for my Special Olympics Rhode Island team, ReFocus. I was inspired to do this when ALU challenged athletes participating in the program to work on capstone projects. By creating an Athlete Leadership Council for my team, I along with others from my team, discuss topics that are important to us. We then provide feedback to our coaches and ideas for upcoming seasons.
What do you enjoy doing for fun?
I enjoy Facetiming with my family and my boyfriend, Kyle. I also enjoy shopping, especially for electronics, and playing games on my computer and iPhone like Farmville on Facebook.
Is there anything else about yourself that you would like to share?
I was adopted when I was 2 years old and brought into my family when I was 4 years old. I have one brother, two sisters, and enjoy being part of a big family. My favorite TV show is The Masked Singer.
The Athlete Spotlight Series
The Athlete Spotlight series shines a light on remarkable individuals from Special Olympics Rhode Island who are either currently enrolled in or have successfully completed our Athlete Leadership University program. These inspiring athletes undergo comprehensive leadership training, acquiring both knowledge and skills. Through hands-on experiences in roles of responsibility, they collaborate with leaders who do not have intellectual or developmental disabilities, contributing to the development of inclusive environments. Join us in celebrating these dedicated individuals and their impactful journey within our community!