What Inclusion and Accessibility Means to a Special Olympian — Episode 088

Today’s episode is airing on April 6, National Student-Athlete
Day. While today’s guest is no longer a student, she has been an
athlete for Special Olympics Minnesota for 19 years. Abby Hirsch,
who was born with Down syndrome, competes in various sports,
including basketball, bocce ball, bowling, downhill skiing, poly
hockey, powerlifting, SOfit, swimming, and track and field. In
addition to being a talented athlete, Abby’s list of
accomplishments goes well beyond sports. She was a commencement
speaker at a high school graduation, spoke on Capitol Hill, has
emceed galas, has received numerous awards and is an active
volunteer, coach and health and wellness ambassador.


Most recently, Abby even lent NRPA her voiceover talents for a
video we’re producing on accessibility in parks and recreation.
And did we mention she works Monday through Friday at Walgreens?
To say she has an impressive resume is an understatement, and
that’s why we’re thrilled to have her join us on the show today
to talk about accessibility and inclusion in parks and
recreation.


Tune in to the full episode below to learn more about Abby’s
story and what accessibility and inclusion mean to her, as well
as:


How she got involved in Special Olympics and why she
continues to play today.

How the COVID-19 pandemic affected her as an athlete and
health and wellness ambassador.

What her favorite local parks mean to her.

Why she feels parks and recreation is important for all
people, but especially those with disabilities.

How park and recreation professionals can make sure their
spaces are welcoming and inclusive for all people, and more!