[SOURCE: CSUFSpecialGames.com]

On Friday, May 4, a group of approximately 40 Hope International University student volunteers, organized by HIU’s Psychology Club, served at the Goodwill of Orange County Faley Special Games hosted at Cal State University, Fullerton. This event is dedicated to fostering social development and activity for developmentally disabled children through non-competitive sporting games and interaction with other challenged children.

Thousands of special needs athletes of all ages are paired with volunteer “buddies” for a fun day of outdoor activities, including basketball, soccer, football throw, Frisbee toss, whiffle ball, volleyball, a 50-yard dash, and more. HIU students ran various games and activities for their special buddies.

"I’ve been attending the Special Games for 7 years now and have been deeply impacted and touched by the resiliency of these athletes,” reported Julie Duda, HIU sophomore.  “I have a passion for the special needs community, and I wanted my fellow HIU students to be able to experience the joy of serving at this wonderful event. This is our first year participating with the Special Games, and hopefully not our last!" 

"The Psychology Club was inspired to get involved with this event because we want to expand our service to our community," stated Psychology Club President Tori Sanchez. "Our goal is to help in any way possible, and to better others' lives."